Discussions about end-of-life care in America are often met with silence, fear, or uncertainty. Yet every year, millions of families face these realities—often without the support, clarity, or resources they deserve.

A recent Forbes article featuring Tom Koutsoumpas, President and Founder of Healthsperien, calls for redefining hospice not as a last resort, but as a profound opportunity for quality, dignified living until the very end.

As both a leader in the field and a stage 3 melanoma survivor, he brings a deeply personal understanding of how caregiving shapes lives.

“The goal of hospice is to make sure that patients and their families live to the fullest until the very end of life.”
— Tom Koutsoumpas

---

Dispelling Myths About Hospice

One of the most common misconceptions is that hospice is only for the final days of life. In reality, patients with a terminal diagnosis and a six-month prognosis are eligible, and care does not mean surrender—it means support. Hospice provides comfort, dignity, and meaningful experiences: family dinners, laughter with grandchildren, or peaceful moments at home.

---

Innovating for Patients and Families

Hospice is evolving through technology and creativity.

• Telepalliative care: Virtual visits and consultations allow patients to receive high-quality care at home, expanding access and reducing costs.

• Companion technologies: Tools like robotic pets are offering comfort and reducing loneliness among patients.

• Expanding resources: NPHI offers a national helpline (844-GET-NPHI) and free caregiver guides developed with partners like the American Cancer Society.

---

Advancing Equity in Hospice Care

Despite progress, disparities remain. Research shows that Black patients and families often face poorer hospice experiences due to barriers of trust and communication. NPHI is committed to addressing these inequities—ensuring that every patient receives compassionate, high-quality care, regardless of background, housing, or ability to pay.

---

A Call to Redefine the Conversation

Koutsoumpas and NPHI are part of a growing movement to reshape how hospice is understood in America:

• Earlier referrals so patients and families have more time to benefit.

• Equitable access across communities and populations.

• Compassionate, person-centered support informed by innovation.

Hospice should not be seen as a last resort. It should be seen as a profound opportunity to affirm life, support families, and provide dignity at the end.

---

Learn more about hospice care and resources at wellbeings.org and nphi.info.

For immediate support, call the NPHI helpline at 844-GET-NPHI.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, dial 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. For Veterans, dial 988 and press 1 or visit VeteransCrisisLine.net