The referral process can begin with a phone call from anyone: the patient, a physician, a friend, a family member, a faith provider. New England Hospice’s first step is to contact the patient (or activated Power of Attorney for Health Care) to ensure that he/she knows that the referral has been made and wants to explore hospice as an option for end-of-life care. At no time is the patient or family obligated to choose hospice, and all information is kept strictly confidential.

With the patient’s consent, New England Hospice’s next step is to check appropriateness for hospice. New England Hospice staff and the patient's primary physician discuss the patient’s diagnosis of a terminal illness and anticipated prognosis.

Next, a call or visit is made to the patient and family to talk about New England Hospice, our services and how we can tailor them to meet the patient's and family's needs.

For more information about the referral process, or if you would like to be contacted by a New England Hospice nurse, call 781-749-2900.