About this resource
This resource hub from Hospice of Michigan, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, gathers practical tools and support for patients facing serious illness and the family caregivers who walk beside them. It is designed to answer the questions families struggle with most — what hospice and palliative care actually are, when it is time to reach out, and how to manage pain and emotions along the way.
The page offers educational materials including a hospice-versus-palliative-care comparison, a “when it’s time to call hospice” checklist of ten diagnostic questions, a pain management scale, and downloadable advance directive forms. On the support side, families can reach a 24/7 caregiver support center at 888-247-5701, join the Grief Journey Program and its support groups, and connect with clinical social workers, chaplains, and trained volunteer visitors. The NorthStar Linc app gives patients and families convenient access to their care information.
Hospice of Michigan serves people with life-limiting illnesses, their families and caregivers, and healthcare professionals, with care lines spanning hospice (for a prognosis of about six months or less), palliative care for those still pursuing treatment, veteran-focused care, and pediatric services. Importantly, no physician referral is required simply to learn more or schedule an informational visit, which lowers the barrier for caregivers who are exploring options early. Whether a family needs guidance on symptom management, emotional support, or a moment of encouragement, this resource is a welcoming and trustworthy place to start.
What you'll get from this resource
- Hospice of Michigan is a nonprofit offering hospice, palliative, veteran, and pediatric care, plus free education for patients and caregivers.
- Practical tools include a hospice-vs-palliative guide, a “when to call hospice” checklist, a pain scale, and advance directive forms.
- A 24/7 caregiver support center (888-247-5701), grief support groups, social workers, and chaplains are available to families.
- No physician referral is needed just to learn more or schedule an informational visit.
Frequently asked questions
Hospice supports patients with a prognosis of roughly six months or less, while palliative care helps those who may have a longer prognosis and are still pursuing treatment. Hospice of Michigan provides a comparison guide to help you decide.
No. You can contact Hospice of Michigan to learn about services or schedule an informational visit without a physician referral.
A 24/7 caregiver support center (888-247-5701), the Grief Journey Program with support groups, clinical social workers, chaplains, and trained volunteers are all available.
The page provides a checklist of ten diagnostic questions to help families recognize when hospice may be appropriate.
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