Resources for Healthcare Professionals
Access hospice eligibility guidelines, clinical education, and resources for seamless patient care coordination with Preferred Hospice Care.
Hospice Eligibility Guidelines
Understanding when to refer patients to hospice care is crucial for ensuring they receive appropriate comfort-focused care at the right time. Medicare and most insurance providers cover hospice services when a physician certifies that a patient has a life expectancy of six months or less if the disease follows its natural course.
General Eligibility Criteria
- • Life expectancy of 6 months or less
- • Progressive decline in clinical status
- • Frequent hospitalizations or ER visits
- • Declining functional status (ADLs)
- • Weight loss and decreased appetite
- • Patient/family choose comfort care
Common Qualifying Diagnoses
- • End-stage cancer (metastatic)
- • Congestive heart failure (NYHA IV)
- • COPD with severe dyspnea at rest
- • End-stage renal disease
- • Advanced dementia or Alzheimer's
- • ALS, Parkinson's, stroke complications
When to Consider Hospice Referral
Consider referring patients to hospice when curative treatments are no longer effective or when the burdens of treatment outweigh the benefits. Early referrals allow patients and families to receive comprehensive support services, including pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual counseling, and caregiver education. Our team works collaboratively with referring physicians to ensure continuity of care and optimal patient outcomes.
Clinical Education & Resources
Preferred Hospice Care is committed to supporting healthcare professionals with ongoing education, clinical resources, and collaborative care coordination. We provide comprehensive training and support to ensure seamless transitions for your patients.
Continuing Education
Free CME/CEU programs on palliative care, pain management, and end-of-life communication for physicians, nurses, and social workers.
Clinical Guidelines
Evidence-based protocols for symptom management, medication guidelines, and best practices in hospice and palliative care.
Referral Tools
Streamlined referral forms, eligibility checklists, and direct access to our clinical team for consultation and coordination.
Seamless Patient Care Coordination
We understand the importance of maintaining strong relationships between referring physicians and hospice providers. Our team is dedicated to ensuring smooth transitions and ongoing communication throughout the patient's hospice journey.
Dedicated Liaison Team
Each referring practice is assigned a dedicated hospice liaison who serves as your primary contact for referrals, questions, and updates. Our liaisons are available 24/7 to facilitate urgent admissions and provide clinical consultation.
24/7 Clinical Support
Our medical directors and clinical team are available around the clock for consultation on complex cases, symptom management, and care planning. We provide regular updates on patient status and welcome ongoing collaboration.
Comprehensive Reporting
Receive detailed admission summaries, ongoing progress notes, and discharge summaries. We maintain open communication channels and provide timely updates on any significant changes in patient condition or care plans.