Hospice Care Quick Facts

• Hospice is not a place but is a kind of high-quality care that brings the patient and family medical, emotional and spiritual care and support focusing on comfort and quality of life.


• Medicare beneficiaries pay little or nothing for hospice, and most insurance plans, HMOs, Medicaid and managed-care plans include hospice coverage.


• No one is denied care due to lack of insurance at Hope Hospice.


• Hospice serves anyone facing a life-limiting illness, regardless of age or illness.


• Research has shown that the majority of Americans do not want to die in a hospital; hospice treats pain and manages symptoms while allowing most patients to remain at home.


• Hospice also care for people living in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities.


• Hospice patients and families can receive care for six months or longer, and the greatest benefits are gained by being in hospice care for more than just a few days or weeks.


• A person may keep his or her referring physician involved while they receive hospice care.


• Hospice serves people of all backgrounds and traditions; the core values of hospice – allowing the patient to be with family, including spiritual and emotional support and treating pain.


• Hospice offers grief and bereavement services to family members and the community.