Question 1

What is hospice care?

Accepted Answer

Hospice care is specialized medical care focused on providing comfort and support to patients with terminal illnesses and their families. Rather than curing the illness, hospice care aims to improve quality of life through pain management, symptom control, and emotional and spiritual support during the final stages of life.

Question 2

Who is eligible for hospice care?

Accepted Answer

Patients are eligible for hospice care when a physician certifies that they have a life-limiting illness with a prognosis of six months or less if the disease runs its normal course. Eligibility is not dependent on a specific diagnosis but rather on the progression of the illness and the patient's overall condition.

Question 3

How much does hospice care cost?

Accepted Answer

Hospice care typically costs $0 out-of-pocket for patients. Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans cover 100% of hospice services, including medications, medical equipment, nursing care, and support services. There are no hidden fees or surprise bills for covered hospice services.

Question 4

What services are included in hospice care?

Accepted Answer

Hospice care includes comprehensive services such as 24/7 nursing care, physician services, pain and symptom management, medications related to the terminal illness, medical equipment and supplies, personal care assistance, counseling and spiritual support, bereavement support for families, and respite care to give family caregivers a break.

Question 5

Can hospice care be provided at home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most hospice care is provided in the patient's home, whether that's a private residence, assisted living facility, or nursing home. Our team brings all necessary medical equipment and supplies to the patient's location. We also provide care in hospitals when needed for acute symptom management.

Question 6

How quickly can hospice care start?

Accepted Answer

We offer same-day admission for patients who need immediate hospice care. Once a physician certifies hospice eligibility and the patient or family consents to care, our team can typically begin services within 24 hours, often on the same day. We understand that needs can arise suddenly and work quickly to provide support.

Question 7

Will I have to give up my regular doctor?

Accepted Answer

No, you can continue seeing your primary care physician while receiving hospice care. Our hospice medical director and team will coordinate with your existing doctors to ensure continuity of care. Your physician can remain involved in your care plan and decision-making throughout your hospice journey.

Question 8

What is the difference between hospice and palliative care?

Accepted Answer

Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with serious illnesses at any stage, and can be provided alongside curative treatment. Hospice care is a type of palliative care specifically for patients with terminal illnesses who are no longer pursuing curative treatment and have a prognosis of six months or less.

Question 9

Can I stop hospice care if I change my mind?

Accepted Answer

Yes, patients have the right to discontinue hospice care at any time and return to curative treatment if they choose. Hospice care is entirely voluntary, and patients can revoke their hospice election and resume aggressive medical treatment whenever they wish. You can also re-enroll in hospice care later if circumstances change.

Question 10

What support is available for family members?

Accepted Answer

We provide comprehensive support for family members including education about what to expect, 24/7 access to hospice nurses for questions and concerns, respite care to give caregivers breaks, counseling services, spiritual support, and bereavement counseling for up to 13 months after the patient's passing. Family support is a core component of hospice care.

Question 11

Is hospice care only for cancer patients?

Accepted Answer

No, hospice care is available for patients with any terminal illness, including heart disease, lung disease, dementia, kidney failure, liver disease, ALS, Parkinson's disease, and many other conditions. Eligibility is based on prognosis and disease progression, not on a specific diagnosis.

Question 12

How often will the hospice team visit?

Accepted Answer

Visit frequency is tailored to each patient's needs. Typically, a registered nurse visits 1-3 times per week, with additional visits from social workers, chaplains, and home health aides as needed. Our team is available 24/7 for urgent needs, and we can increase visit frequency during times of crisis or when symptoms change.

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