Why hospice? The case for ESRD patients and their families.

This article defines hospice by giving its historical context, its development over time, and its relevancy for the end stage renal disease (ESRD) patient. A literature review and explication of hospice usage statistics show the lack of utilization by the ESRD community. Comparison of hospice and traditional medical care highlights the philosophy of care over cure and hospice standards of practice are given. Medicare rules and two case studies support the appropriateness of hospice for ESRD patients and their families.