There are some common misconceptions about hospice.  Contrary to these misconceptions:

• patients do not have to “give up” their own doctors when they choose hospice.
• patients can change their minds—they can choose hospice, then choose to stop hospice and reengage in active, curative treatment.
• patients can get better while on hospice services, and be designated as no longer eligible.  Hospice is not a “death sentence.”
• hospice should be used as early as possible—the earlier hospice care is elected, the more services the hospice can provide to improve quality of life.