How Hospice Is Paid For

Studies have shown hospice care to be no more costly - and frequently less expensive - than conventional care during the last six months of life. This is because less high-cost technology is used, and family, friends, and volunteers provide much of the day-to-day patient care at home.

Hospice care is covered by most insurers, including Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and most private insurance companies and HMOs. Hospice is a covered benefit under Medicare for people who have a life expectancy of six months or less.

Medicare and most policies cover all costs associated with hospice care, such as:

• In-home visits and telephone consultations with all hospice staff
• Grief support services
• Medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, beds, commodes and oxygen
• Medical supplies, such as bandages and dressings
• Medications for the terminal illness, although some may require a co-pay for prescriptions

Please contact In-House Hospice & Palliative Care staff for more information at (800) 311-5365.