Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hospice?

Hospice is a philosophy of care with an emphasis on improving quality of life. We provide comprehensive pain and symptom management to allow patients to live comfortably. Hospice care is meant for patients who are terminally ill or have a life-threatening illness. Hospice care is appropriate for patients of all ages.

Who can refer patients?

Anyone can refer a patient to hospice. Our Hospice agency will work with you and your physician or the hospice physician to coordinate care.

Where can I receive services?

Hospice patients are cared for in their homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and contracted inpatient hospital settings.

Who Pays for Hospice?

Medicare, Medi-Cal and Medicaid plans, most private health insurance companies. Private pay is also available.

Myths & Facts of Hospice

Fact:

Hospice is about quality of life and hope preservation. Hospice patients are encouraged to live life to the fullest.

Fact:

Managing pain and symptoms is one of the key goals in hospice care. Medications are used as needed to control both.

Fact:

While there are hospice inpatient units, the majority of care is administered in the patient’s familiar surroundings such as their home, nursing home, or assisted living facility.

Fact:

Hospice care is for any patient with a terminal illness, which can include end-stage heart disease, COPD, Alzheimer’s disease, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and AIDs, to name a few.

Fact:

The Medicare hospice benefit covers the care of a hospice patient as long as the patient remains eligible.

Fact:

Actually, anyone can refer a patient for hospice care. The information will be taken and the patient’s doctor will be contacted to gain permission to assess the patient’s eligibility.

Fact:

Your family physician becomes a member of the patient care team and is regularly informed of the patient’s condition.

Fact:

Most individuals who have Medicare have the Hospice Medicare Benefit, and most private insurances now have a hospice benefit. In fact, care is provided regardless of one’s inability to pay. With the Medicare or private insurance benefit, all hospice services are provided, and all medications equipment, and supplies related to the patient’s terminal illness are covered.