Commonly Asked Questions about Hospice

Hospice is paid for 100% by Medicare and Medicaid. Veteran's Administration and most Private Insurance also have hospice benefits.

Hospice is for anyone of any age with any terminal diagnosis. To be eligible for Hospice a physician must certify that an individual has a life expectancy of six months or less.

There is no limit to how long an individual may be on hospice as long as they show decline and a six month life expectancy.

Hospice is provided wherever the patient calls home. Hospice may be provided in a private home, nursing home or assisted living.

Often a referral is made by the patient’s primary physician, but a referral to hospice care can be initiated by anyone. Once a referral is made a nurse at XL Hospice will assist in evaluating the patient’s appropriateness to receive hospice care.

Hospice does not do anything to hasten death. Actually, it is common for individuals to live a longer, fuller life if they receive the care of hospice.

Patients receive visits by a nurse 2-3 times a week, bath aide 2-3 times a week, social worker 1-2 times a month, and chaplain 1-2 times a month. Hospice volunteers are available once a week for 2-4 hours to give the caregiver a break. Hospice also provides equipment and medication related to the terminal illness. Grief support is also available for up to a year after the patient’s death.