What is an End-of-Life Doula?
An End-of-Life Doula, also known as a death doula, or death midwife, is a trained, non-medical professional who provides emotional, physical, and spiritual support to individuals who are nearing the end of their lives and their families. As an End-of-Life Doula, I offer guidance and assistance to support individuals and their families before, during, and after death, helping to reduce stress, fear, and confusion surrounding the end-of-life process.
Why would I need an End-of-Life Doula?
Death is an uncomfortable subject for most people. As an End-of-Life Doula, I am trained to speak comfortably, with a calming presence, about death during a difficult and emotional time. I strive to serve as a compassionate resource that is fully present to answer your questions and guide you and your loved ones through the end-of-life process. I am committed to helping you experience a death with dignity and physical, emotional, and spiritual comfort.
When should I contact an End-of-Life Doula? Can I contact an End-of-Life Doula in advance to plan for my own end-of-life care?
You can contact me at any time, including well in advance of an end-of-life situation. While it is common for an End-of-Life Doula to be engaged shortly after a person receives a terminal diagnosis, the earlier I am brought in, the sooner I can get to know you and your loved ones, prioritize your needs, and respond to any gaps there may be in your care. Planning well in advance reduces the unknowns and ensures that your wishes are honored, resulting in a more peaceful end-of-life experience.
In general, it is beneficial to engage an End-of Life Doula if:
- You are facing end-of-life and have questions on the process and are concerned about how your loved ones can support you and how they will handle your passing.
- You are a caregiver for a loved one facing end-of-life and are overwhelmed, uncertain if you are doing the right things for them, and/or unsure of the end-of-life process.
What is the difference between hospice and an End-of-Life Doula?
The Hospice Team is responsible for the patient’s plan of care and clinical support. They supply the medical services, including medical evaluations and medications to keep the patient comfortable and out of pain. In general, however, due to staffing, budgeting, and Medicare restrictions, the number of hours of weekly hospice care is limited.
An End-of-Life Doula provides supplementary and complementary support to hospice services. The Doula is a non-medical professional who can update the hospice team and advocate for the patient, reporting any changes in their condition so the hospice team can assess and update the care plan if needed to ensure patient comfort. Unlike the hospice team, the End-of-Life Doula has no time limitations and thus can provide as much time as desired, including supporting individuals and caregivers with companionship at the time of vigil and death.
Does hospice approve of End-of-Life Doulas?
Yes. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) is the membership organization for all the hospices in the US. In 2018, NHPCO created The End-of-Life Doula Council to be able to share with hospices and families how the professional End-of-Life Doula can assist and complete the hospice team to fill in “the gaps in care” and allow for the best end of life experience for both the patient and their loved ones.
Does an individual have to be on hospice services to use End-of-Life Doula services?
No, it is not required that a person be on hospice care to use a Doula at the end of life. However, it is important that the services and benefits of hospice are known, especially relating to medication and equipment as the End-of-Life Doula does not provide these services. In most end-of-life situations, the sooner one is on hospice, the better as hospice can provide additional support that is focused on keeping the patient as comfortable as possible.
Can an End-of- Life Doula administer medicine?
No. As a non-medical practitioner, I do not give any medications, whether prescription or over the counter. Only specific medical personnel and trained caregivers (including family members) can administer medication. I can, however, work with you and your caregivers to ensure everyone is knowledgeable and comfortable with medicine administration.
What should I expect from my initial consultation with an End-of-Life Doula?
The initial consultation is the time to discuss your needs and concerns. This is the time for you to fully understand the various services I offer and to determine if we are a right fit for each other. If the fit is not there or should it be determined that another doula or other services would be more beneficial for you, I will assist in connecting you with appropriate resources.
Do End-of-Life Doulas provide services for families and loved ones as well?
Yes, End-of-Life Doulas offer support to family members and loved ones, helping them understand and navigate the end-of-life process, and connect them with support services, including those pertaining to grief and bereavement.
How do End-of-Life Doulas charge for their services? Does insurance cover the services of an End-of-Life Doula?
End of Life Doulas are currently not covered by private insurance or Medicare/Medicaid and are private pay. Hourly rates are dependent on the services provided. The hourly rate for End-of-Life Doulas in the Chicago land area is on average $100/hour, with rates ranging from $100-$200/hour for advanced care planning services, depending on the complexity of the desired service. The hourly rate for Elder Care services varies depending on the extent of support. Packaged offerings are available. The initial 30 minute consultation costs $50. If you decide to engage my services this amount will be subtracted from the service package you select.
Do End-of-Life Doulas have specific training or certification?
Yes. There are various organizations that provide training for End-of-Life Doulas. I have received certifications as an End-of-Life Doula from both the Doulagivers Institute and the University of Vermont. Additionally, I have received certifications from the Doulagivers Institute in Elder Care and Advanced Care Consulting. I am also a member of the National End-of-Life Doula Alliance (NEDA) which has established a national practicum with core competencies for professional End-of-Life Doulas. I am NEDA Proficient. My years as a hospice volunteer, as a dog therapy volunteer for a senior facility, and my knowledge of herbal remedies, further deepen my doula and elder care offerings.
Where are you located and what areas do you serve?
I am located in Evanston, Illinois and provide in-person support to individuals living in Evanston and the nearby communities. For individuals outside this area, I can help to identify resources closer to your location. In some instances, I can provide support remotely, through zoom meetings or via the phone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
