February is Black History Month! Nationally, African Americans account for just 9% of hospice patients1. There are a number of reasons for this low rate, including a cultural preference for life-extending treatment.
There is no 'right' choice between curative treatment and hospice care. Each person and family makes the decision that's right for them. Happily, 98% of African American families who have chosen hospice care would recommend it to others, and 96% say their loved one was always treated with respect2.
With some long-term diseases, including diabetes and heart disease, affecting African Americans more than other groups, education is the key to ensuring everyone receives the care they want and need.
1 NHPCO Facts are Figures Report 2011
2 NHPCO Family Evaluation of Hospice Care 2010 National Average Scores
Like this post?