Frequently Asked Questions

At any time during a life-limiting illness, it’s appropriate to discuss all of a patient’s care options, including hospice. By law, the decision belongs to the patient. Most hospices accept patients who have a life-expectancy of six months or less and who are referred by their physician.

Medicare pays for 100% of allowable charges, including medications, durable medical equipment, medical supplies, respite care and inpatient care related to the hospice diagnosis.

Yes. If the patient’s condition improves and the disease seems to be in remission, patients can be discharged from hospice and return to aggressive therapy or go on about their daily life. If the discharged patient should later need to return to hospice care, Medicare and most private insurance will allow additional coverage for this patient.

Hospice patients are cared for by a team consisting of a physician, nurse, social worker, counselor, hospice aides, clergy, and volunteers. Each one provides assistance based on his/her own area of expertise. In addition, hospices provide medications, supplies, equipment, and other services realted to the terminal illness.

Hospice staff is on call for emergencies 24 hours a day. Hospice care does not include a nurse in the home 24/7. If you require more care than can be provided in the home, some hospices have their own inpatient facilities. Most communities have nursing homes, residential centers, and hospitals with hospice care options.