Palliative sedation is carefully monitored medication given to a terminally ill patient to cause sleepiness or unconsciousness. This is an end-of-life option for terminally ill patients whose symptoms are severe and are unable to be adequately treated. Offered by many hospice programs for appropriate patients, palliative sedation can continue until a patient’s death. As this requires constant monitoring, this option is usually only available at hospice homes, hospitals, or other spaces with 24/7 medical care.

January 3, 2022

What is palliative sedation?

Palliative sedation is carefully monitored medication given to a terminally ill patient to cause sleepiness or unconsciousness. This is an end-of-life option for terminally ill patients […]
January 3, 2022

Do terminally ill New Yorkers have the right to receive information about their end-of-life options?

Yes, the Palliative Care Information Act became effective in 2011. End of Life Choices New York played an instrumental part in getting this law enacted. Per […]
January 3, 2022

I heard New York ranks low in hospice utilization when compared to other states. What does that mean?

Unfortunately, New York has one of the lowest hospice utilization rates in the country. Compared to other states, New Yorkers access hospice care less. In New […]
January 3, 2022

Once you’re receiving hospice, can you leave (for example, if a new treatment becomes available)?

Yes, you have the right to leave hospice or switch to a different hospice program. If you leave hospice, you may continue to receive palliative care. […]
January 3, 2022

How can I find a hospice program in my area?

If your medical provider is making the referral to hospice, they (or an affiliated social worker) will be able to let you know about programs in […]
January 3, 2022

How do I receive hospice care?

Anyone can make an initial hospice referral. Most commonly, a medical provider determines if the patient will make the initial referral, so we recommend speaking with […]
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