Who pays for hospice?
For most families, hospice is fully covered.
Hospice care is covered by Medicare, Medi-Cal / Medicaid, and most private insurance plans, so families can focus on their loved one instead of the cost of care. We verify benefits before care begins and explain exactly what to expect.
Medicare
The Medicare hospice benefit (Part A) covers the full interdisciplinary team, medications related to the hospice diagnosis, medical equipment and supplies, all four levels of care, and 13 months of bereavement support for the family.
Medi-Cal / Medicaid
Medi-Cal covers hospice for eligible patients, including patients who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medi-Cal. Room and board in a nursing facility may also be covered for eligible Medi-Cal patients.
Private insurance
Most commercial plans, Medicare Advantage plans, and many HMO plans include a hospice benefit modeled on Medicare’s. We contact your plan and confirm coverage for you.
Your other coverage stays in place. Patients keep their full Medicare and Medi-Cal / Medicaid coverage for any healthcare needs or services not related to their hospice diagnosis, for example, care for a broken bone or an unrelated condition.
Common questions
Coverage questions families ask.
What does the hospice benefit include?
Visits from nurses, aides, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers; physician oversight; medications for comfort related to the hospice diagnosis; medical equipment and supplies; continuous care during a crisis; short-term inpatient and respite care; and bereavement support for the family.
Is there a copay or deductible?
Under Original Medicare there is no deductible for hospice. A small copayment may apply for outpatient prescriptions and for respite care; in practice, most families pay nothing. We explain any cost before care begins.
What if my loved one has no insurance?
Call us. We will help explore eligibility for Medi-Cal and other options, and we never turn a family away without helping them find a path to care.
Can hospice be stopped or restarted?
Yes. A patient can revoke the hospice benefit at any time (for example, to pursue a new treatment) and can re-elect hospice later if eligible.
What about care that isn’t related to the hospice diagnosis?
It continues to be covered by the patient’s regular Medicare, Medi-Cal, or private insurance, just as before.
Not sure what your benefits include?
Call us at (818) 839-3333 and we’ll verify coverage and walk you through your options, at no charge.