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DiscussionIs Low Diastolic Blood Pressure common with Stage 3 or 4 CKD?
Kidney & Bladder | Last Active: 5 days ago | Replies (160)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "The last we knew (over a year ago) was he was in stage 3. No idea..."
Hmmm - That is a common misperception. Through Medicare, hospice care is for those who are terminally ill, without a defined time limit. That is typically assumed to be 6 months or less, but you can get unlimited extensions if the doctor certifies the condition remains terminal. (See: https://www.medicare.gov/what-medicare-covers/what-part-a-covers/how-hospice-works.)
I am sure if you call Bill's physician (in his presence so he can grant you permission to discuss) and relay all you have told us here, you will get a recommendation for hospice. Through Medicare, he can also order blood tests through home health care so no doctor visit is needed for making his diagnosis, and the tests can cover the kidney function, blood counts, etc. Make sure the doc understands the desire for no more treatments, you just need the diagnosis.
Does Bill have an Advanced Directive (not just a DNR order) in place? (see: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/living-wills/art-20046303) Do you or someone else have a Durable Medical Power of Attorney? (https://www.lawhelp.org/dc/resource/frequently-asked-questions-about-durable-powe)
These are two very important steps to take now, so treatments cannot be imposed against his will going forward. If you cannot get Bill to put it in writing, get him to tell you what he wants and record it, then text or email it to his daughter so it is well-documented.
This is a tough time - end of life, no matter how good or long it has been, is difficult. By helping Bill let go on his terms, you are honoring him.
Sue