Frequently Asked Questions

Ogle County Hospice-Hospice Home

Is Ogle County Hospice Association a 501 (c) (3) organization?

Yes, OCHA is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization providing quality end-of-life care regardless of sex, age, marital status, handicap, sexual preference, race, national origin, or religion.

How many people do you estimate will be cared for in the Hospice Home over the course of a year?

We anticipate serving 150 to 200 patients plus approximately 1,800 to 2,000 family members in the Hospice Home annually.

When dad got really sick, we had to put him in a nursing home. If this facility had been here, would it have been an option for us?

Possibly, Ogle County Hospice Association will continue its primary goal of care in the home, nursing home, or residential facility. The Hospice Home will offer another option of care. When the needs of patients in their homes become more difficult than the caregiver can manage or when respite care is needed, the Hospice Home can become home with professional 24 hour care.

What is the charge for Hospice services?

In hospital stays and home care, available insurance is used whenever possible, including:  Medicare, Medicaid, and private/commercial insurance. Everyone will be evaluated based on their condition, so that reimbursement from public and private insurance can be utilized to the fullest extent. In the past, we have never had to turn anyone away based on their ability to pay. Our intent is to establish a charitable fund that will provide for those that do not have reimbursement resources.

When do you anticipate the Hospice Home will open its doors?

Subject to successful fundraising, we anticipate the doors will open in 2008.

Is the local medical community aware of this project?

The local community of physicians, hospitals, and nursing homes are aware of this project, and many are in favor of this option of care being made available within our community. The facility will enhance the teaching opportunities that have already been established with the University of Illinois, Mt. Morris Clinic medical students and Kishwaukee Community College nursing students.

Are only cancer patients considered for the Hospice Home?

All people with a terminal illness will be evaluated for admission to the Hospice Home.  Approximately 40% of all Hospice patients in 2005 were cancer patients.  Hospice care is offered to all regardless of their disease.

Are there special accommodations that must be made in building a Hospice Home?

The Hospice Home must be built according to standards set by the Illinois Department of Public Health.  In addition, every detail has been considered to meet the needs of the patients and families.