Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about hospice care, our services, and what to expect.
Not at all. Choosing hospice means choosing to focus on what matters most — comfort, dignity, and quality of life. Hospice patients often live more fully and more comfortably once the burden of aggressive treatments is lifted and a dedicated care team is in place.
Yes. The patient's personal physician remains an important part of the care team. Our hospice medical director works in collaboration with the attending physician — not as a replacement.
Wherever the patient calls home. That can be a private residence, an assisted living facility, a memory care community, or a skilled nursing home. Our team comes to the patient.
If a patient's condition stabilizes or improves, they can be discharged from hospice and return to curative treatment at any time. Hospice can always be resumed later if needed. There is no penalty for leaving and no barrier to coming back.
No. Hospice is available when a physician certifies a life expectancy of six months or less, and many patients benefit from hospice care for weeks or months. Research consistently shows that patients who begin hospice earlier experience better comfort, better quality of life, and — in some cases — even live longer than those who delay.
In most cases, we can begin care within 24 to 48 hours of receiving a referral. In urgent situations, we can often begin the same day. We understand that when a family is ready for help, every hour matters.
For most patients, there is no out-of-pocket cost. The Medicare Hospice Benefit covers all hospice-related services, medications, equipment, and supplies. Medicaid and most private insurance plans provide similar coverage. We verify benefits and handle all paperwork on the family's behalf.
Our bereavement team provides grief support to the family for up to 13 months, including counseling, support groups, educational resources, and regular check-ins. The family is never simply "discharged" — we remain a source of care and support for as long as needed.