What is a primary characteristic of hospice care compared to standard medical care?

Hospice care is primarily characterized by its focus on promoting pain management and enhancing the quality of life for patients who are in the terminal stages of illness. Unlike standard medical care, which often emphasizes curing the illness and may involve aggressive treatment methods, hospice care shifts the emphasis toward comfort and support. This includes managing physical pain and emotional distress, addressing psychosocial and spiritual needs, and ensuring that patients and their families are cared for in a holistic manner.

In hospice care, the approach is not about prolonging life at all costs but rather about ensuring that the remaining time is as meaningful and comfortable as possible. This patient-centered model is aimed at improving the quality of life, rather than pursuing treatment that may be more aligned with curative intent. Thus, the promotion of effective pain management and symptom relief is foundational to the philosophy of hospice care, distinguishing it from standard medical practices.