Question 1

Is an advanced directive required?

Accepted Answer

No. Preferred but not required.

Question 2

Does Medicare cover?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Medicare Part A covers the hospice benefit.

Question 3

When to introduce to hospice?

Accepted Answer

If the patient's/resident's condition overall has declined and there seems to be no improvement, then hospice may be a consideration.

Question 4

Who is physician in charge?

Accepted Answer

The patient's/resident's primary physician may continue to follow their patient during the hospice course. If the primary care physician chooses not to follow, then the hospice medical director will be in charge of the hospice plan of care, along with the rest of the hospice team.

Question 5

Is religion involved?

Accepted Answer

Hospice is not driven by religion. However, spiritual concerns/wishes are often associated with death and grief. Pastoral services are offered, and patient chooses if desired.

Question 6

Does hospice mean 'no treatment'?

Accepted Answer

No. Patients can and often do receive some kind of treatment. E.g., if the client acquires a secondary infection, it will be treated, as this is a comfort measure.

Question 7

What is patient lives longer than six months on hospice?

Accepted Answer

A patient can be on hospice indefinitely as long as the prognosis for his/her condition is less than six months.

Question 8

Can hospice patient with recovery signs return to regular treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If improvement in the condition occurs and the disease seems in remission, patient can be discharged from hospice and return to aggressive therapy.

Question 9

Is the home the only place hospice care can be delivered?

Accepted Answer

No. Most hospice services are delivered in a personal residence; however some patients are cared for in nursing homes or hospice centers.

Question 10

When should a decision about entering hospice be made?

Accepted Answer

At any time during a life-limiting illness, it's appropriate to discuss all of a patient's care options, including hospice.

FAQs