How will I afford hospice?

If you qualify, the hospice benefit is 100% covered by Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid. Most insurance plans also cover hospice care, but coinsurance and any remaining deductible may apply. We accept eligible patients regardless of their ability to pay.

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Where can I receive hospice care?

At Heart of Hospice, we care for patients wherever they call home. Our patients are in their own homes throughout the community, in assisted living communities, and in nursing homes. We also work with patients who do not have a permanent living situation.

Do I have to stop my treatment to have hospice?

At Heart of Hospice, our mission is to serve all hospice-eligible patients the way they desire to be served. Physical therapy, IV therapies, radiation, and other treatments that you consider comforting may be included in the hospice plan of care.

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How do I get hospice?

Call us at 1.844.HOH.0411. Anyone can refer a patient to our services. One of our team members will visit you, assess your needs, and work with your doctor to determine if you qualify for the benefit. Meeting with our team is free of charge and you will learn about the benefits you may be entitled to receive. We can help you make an informed decision about your care.

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What if I change my mind?

The hospice benefit is an elective benefit. You can stop it at any time and renew your traditional Medicare benefits. Some patients even graduate from hospice and are discharged from services because their condition improves and they no longer qualify. If you are discharged from services, our team will continue to follow up with you and ensure you get the care you need.

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Do I have to give up hope to have hospice?

Heart of Hospice does not ask you to be ready to give up hope, comforting treatments, or your doctor. Our medical, psychosocial, and spiritual care is tailored to meet you and your family’s needs as you define them. Ask yourself: What do I need to be ready for? Am I ready to be comfortable? Am I ready to have a team to support me where I want to live? Am I ready to have emotional and spiritual support for myself and my family?

When we ask our patients and families about their experience with hospice, most of them say, “We wish we had chosen the benefit sooner.” Readiness isn’t a requirement to receive the quality, comprehensive care hospice provides.

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Can I go to the hospital if I have hospice?

If you need to go to the hospital, you can. Hospice provides four levels of care to meet your needs as your situation changes, including hospitalization. Routine home care is the basic level of hospice care provided wherever you call home. The benefit also includes continuous care for times of medical crisis to keep you comfortable at home. When family members need support, the benefit also covers short-term respite care for up to five days in a contracted nursing facility or hospital. Lastly, hospice provides general inpatient care in a hospital, skilled nursing facility, or hospice inpatient unit for symptom control that cannot otherwise be provided at home.

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