When it comes to hospice care, financial status should not play a determining role. In fact, patients with limited life expectancy regularly do not have to pay for hospice care as it is covered by Medicare, Medicaid in most states, the Department of Veterans Affairs, managed care organizations, health maintenance organizations, and most private insurance plans.
Medicare/Medicaid: The bulk of hospice care is paid for by Medicare and Medicaid. Hospice care is paid for by Medicare through the Medicare Hospice benefit. Additionally, Medicaid pays for hospice care in most states which is available to low-income individuals. The overall benefits provided under these two programs are very similar in scope.
Health Insurance: The majority of private insurers provide coverage for hospice care in some form although coverage varies by insurer. It is important to contact your current insurance plan to see what options may be available to you.
Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans can also receive hospice care through the Department of Veterans Affairs which can purchase these services from local community providers. This includes both hospice care provided at home as well as services rendered in inpatient facility settings.
Individuals Without Insurance: Individuals without insurance coverage and unable to pay for hospice services may also be able to receive care from hospice programs through donations, memorial funds, gifts, grants, or other one-time community sources. If you or a loved one is concerned about the costs of hospice care, please don’t hesitate to call a local hospice company to see what is right for you.
