AIM Palliative Home Health FAQs

If you have a question about The Carpenter Health Network, feel free to contact us or browse the Frequently Asked Questions using the categories on the left.

AIM Palliative Home Health

What is an advanced directive?

An Advanced Directive is a document that provides a person the opportunity to give directions about future medical care. It can also serve as a legal document designating another individual (proxy or health agent) to make decisions for you if you are unable to make those decisions yourself. This document will express your wishes if you become incapacitated. It covers your specific preferences for the kind of medical treatment you want or don’t want. It contains how you want people to treat you, and what you want your loved ones to know. NOTE: Advanced Directives are not necessary for a patient to receive AIM Palliative Home Health.

What is the difference between palliative care and hospice care?

Palliative care is a term used to denote treatment and care provided to a patient to address the discomforts and symptoms of any illness, at any stage. Palliative care is offered in a various of settings including clinics, hospitals and home.

Hospice is a type of palliative care. Hospice is not a “place” but rather a unique philosophy and approach to end of life care that focuses on both the patient as well as their family. Hospice care is holistic, addressing physical, emotional, spiritual, and practical concerns.

Who can I call for more information about AIM Palliative Home Health?

For more information about AIM services, call the AIM office located in your area. View our Locations page for more information.

Is hospice the same as palliative home health (PHH)?

No. Palliative Home Health (PHH) such as the AIM Home Health combines the medical model of Traditional Home Health (THH) such as STAT Home Health and the psychosocial model of hospice, such as St. Joseph Hospice. PHH is provided to those patients who wish to continue curative treatment such as chemotherapy, radiation, and dialysis. PHH visits are performed by palliative care trained staff, visit duration is much the same as hospice, and cases are reviewed weekly by a palliative care team, just like hospice. The main difference between hospice and PHH is the frequency of visits. While hospice staff may see a patient 4-5 times per week, PHH visits, though longer in duration, are more similar to THH (1-2 times per week). Hospice also offers around-the-clock bedside care (continuous care), if needed. For more information about PHH, visit AIM Home Health.