A medical assistant is processing a referral for a patient with a terminal illness. Where should the patient be referred?

Hospice care facilities are specifically designed to provide comprehensive care for patients who are facing a terminal illness. The primary focus of hospice care is to ensure comfort and maintain quality of life for patients during their final stages. This care can include pain management, emotional support, and assistance with the surrounding family dynamics. It emphasizes a holistic approach that addresses not only the physical symptoms of the illness but also the psychological, social, and spiritual needs of both the patient and their family.

While skilled nursing facilities and rehabilitation centers provide valuable services, they are not primarily oriented towards end-of-life care. Skilled nursing facilities typically focus on patients who need extended medical care and support but may not necessarily be facing terminal conditions. Rehabilitation centers aim to help patients recover from illness or surgery and regain their ability to perform daily activities, which is not aligned with the needs of a patient who has a terminal illness. Palliative care clinics, on the other hand, focus on relief from symptoms and stress of serious illness but might be more appropriate for patients not yet in the terminal phase. Hospice care is the most appropriate choice for patients who are nearing the end of life, which is why it is the correct answer in this scenario.