How is someone enrolled in hospice care?
The patient, their doctor, or a caregiver may make the first contact with a hospice provider. But it’s a good idea to discuss the idea with your doctor first. Doctors are sometimes reluctant to bring up hospice if patients and families don’t ask about it — which can result in people missing out on months or weeks of beneficial care and support. If you decide to go ahead, you’ll need your doctor’s input to qualify for services.
Who Pays for Hospice Care?
If you have Medicare coverage — under traditional Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan — your hospice expenses will be covered by Medicare. That’s true whether you get care at home or elsewhere. If you don’t have Medicare, your care may be covered by your state’s Medicaid program or a private insurer. Veterans’ Administration (VA) benefits also cover hospice care.
How long can hospice last?
A common misunderstanding is that hospice care can only last 6 months. But under Medicare guidelines, there’s no limit on how long hospice care can last, as long as your doctor says you remain terminally ill. If you improve so much that you are no longer likely to die within 6 months, your doctor can discharge you from hospice care. It’s often hard for doctors to predict how long someone will live.
Does hospice care mean that I give up on all medical care?
If you choose hospice care, it doesn’t mean that you are giving up on all medical care. Instead, it shifts the focus of care to your comfort and well-being. Hospice also helps support your family or other caregivers through the end of your life and the grieving process. When choosing a program, be sure to ask lots of questions and to speak up about what matters most to you and your loved ones.
Suggested questions for the hospice provider:
- What services and treatments will be covered?
- How long has the hospice provider been serving patients?
- Where are services provided?
- Will the hospice provide a hospital bed and other medical equipment I might need?
- Can I take my current medications?
- What if my symptoms cannot be controlled at home? Can I go to the hospital?
- Will my family and I be involved in care decisions?
- Can I still see my regular doctor if I am in hospice?
- How will the hospice team help with the grieving process?
