Hospice Comprehensive Assessment and Plan of Care

Video Runtime: 35 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 26 Minutes

The hospice comprehensive assessment is the first step in patient-centered care. By completing a focused assessment with all of the appropriate elements, the hospice interdisciplinary team member can work with the patient and family to support positive outcomes. This course reviews Medicare requirements for a comprehensive assessment, including elements, frequency, and what and how to document. Additionally, appropriate quantifiable tools will be discussed. From the comprehensive assessment, the interdisciplinary team members will develop a patient-centered plan of care that will serve as a road map for all visits. This plan should include measurable goals and interventions that support meeting those goals. As the patient condition changes, the plan of care will need to be updated. These two components—the comprehensive assessment and the plan of care—form the basis of all hospice care and services. By understanding these tools, team members can demonstrate following the standards of care and best practices, and more importantly, achieving positive and patient-driven outcomes.