About Us
When is it time to contact DeKalb County Hospice?
There is no such thing as calling DeKalb County Hospice too early. Even if you may not be ready to begin Hospice care we may be able to answer your questions or find a resource that would be helpful to you and your loved ones now. It's easier to make calls and ask questions when you are not in a crisis.
Any one can call DeKalb County Hospice to make a referral, you, a family member or a professional. Your physician can recommend care and must certify your diagnosis and prognosis but you have the final say in deciding if hospice is right for you.
We understand that making that first phone call to hospice can be very difficult emotionally, whether you are calling for yourself or for someone you love. We strive to give you the answers to your questions and calm your fears. If you are thinking about whether it is time to call Hospice then it is the right time to call. Even if you are not ready for hospice services we can help you find the right resources you might need.
Call Hospice when:
- When looking for information about advance directives to help you communicate your health care decisions
- When you have any questions for yourself or others about end-of-life issues;
- When you need guidance in making realistic care plans for you or for someone else dealing with end of life care challenges
- When care-giving, loss or grief are affecting your life
- When you or your loved one no longer desires curative and/or aggressive treatment;
- When your physician has told you that the treatments you are receiving are no longer effective and you have a limited life expectancy.
Choosing to use hospice services allows you the opportunity to choose how you want to spend your remaining time. Hospice care is about quality of life.
Hospice nurses, along with your primary physician work with you to manage distressful symptoms so you can live comfortably for what ever time remains.
Where are you able to receive care?
DeKalb County Hospice can provide care in your own home or in one of the nursing facilities located in DeKalb County. Our service area extends into the towns bordering DeKalb County including Lake Holiday, Leland, Earlville, Paw Paw, Lee, Creston, Elburn, Virgil, Maple Park and Hampshire. Your primary physician can be located outside the service area but must be in Illinois. You can use our Medical Director, Dr. Michael Thornton.
