• Most often, the caregiver is a family member of the patient; Hospice does not take the place of the caregiver.  If the patient does not have a caregiver, Hospice will ask the patient for help in making a plan to ensure safety and meeting needs.

• In most cases, Medicare, Medicaid, VA, and/or private insurance will pay for Hospice care.  No patient is refused services in the absence of financial resources.

• Most Hospice patients have one person who is considered the primary caregiver.  Sometimes the caregiver needs someone else to take care of the patient for a few days.  Hospice will work with the caregiver to develop an alternative plan for patient care.  Up to five (5) days of care may be provided, depending upon patient’s source of reimbursement and Hospice guidelines.

• The patient may be discharged from Hospice care if physical condition improves.  Conditions for discharge include:
• The patient no longer meets Hospice eligibility criteria.
• The patient moves out of the area served by Hospice.
• The patient’s safety or the safety of Hospice staff is compromised.

• Hospice will not pay for care unrelated to the terminal illness.  Costs for equipment, such as oxygen, hospital bed, or walker, are covered by Hospice.  Selected medications, primarily for pain, nausea, and bowel control, are covered by Hospice.  Payment for any treatments, services, medical supplies, or medications not approved by Hospice will be the responsibility of the patient or family. 

What kinds of illnesses are cared for by Hospice?

• Hospice care is provided to adults, children, and infants living with a serious life-limiting illness such as cancer, AIDS, Alzheimer''s, stroke, ALS, end stage heart, lung, kidney, liver disease, etc.