Why would a hospital call in hospice if the patient does not have cancer?

There are many reasons why a hospital might call in hospice for a patient who does not have cancer. Some of these reasons include:

* Advanced heart disease. Heart failure is a leading cause of death in the United States, and it can lead to a number of complications that can make hospice care appropriate, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and pain.

* Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is a group of lung diseases that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing, and it can eventually lead to respiratory failure.

* Neurological disorders. Neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis can cause a decline in physical and cognitive function, which can make hospice care appropriate.

* Renal failure. Renal failure, also known as kidney failure, is a condition in which the kidneys are unable to filter waste products from the blood. This can lead to a number of complications, such as fluid retention, high blood pressure, and anemia.

* Severe infection. A severe infection can lead to a number of complications that can make hospice care appropriate, such as sepsis, organ failure, and death.

Hospice care is not just for people with cancer. It is also appropriate for people with other serious illnesses who are expected to live for six months or less. Hospice care can provide comfort and support to patients and their families during the end of life.