Paying for Hospice
It can be difficult to think about health care costs when faced
with end-of-life challenges. AseraCare Hospice understands this,
and we are here to help you with answers on what Medicare, Medicaid
and many private insurance companies cover under hospice care.
Generally, the hospice services covered must relate to managing
a patient’s terminal illness, controlling pain or helping the
individual to maintain their daily living activities and basic
functional skills.
When a Medicare-eligible patient receives services from a
Medicare-approved hospice, Medicare will pay for services and
supplies directly related to the patient's hospice diagnosis.
The following services directly related to the patient's
hospice diagnosis are covered:
- Doctor care
- Nursing care
- Drugs for pain relief and those related to the terminal
illness
- Counseling services for the patient and family members
- 13-month berevement counseling for family members
The medical supplies directly related to the patient's hospice
diagnosis covered include:
- Hospital beds and routine mattress changes
- Walkers, canes and crutches
- Respiratory equipment
- Patient lifts
- Shower/bath chairs
- Bedside commodes
- Catheters, syringes, dressings and latex gloves
- Incontinence supplies
Under Medicare law, no person will be refused hospice care due
to inability to pay. AseraCare Hospice has financial specialists on
staff to answer questions about receiving financial assistance.
Funds may be available from donations, gifts, grants or other
community sources to help cover the costs of care.
AseraCare Hospice staff can help you verify insurance coverage
and eligibility prior to admission. For more information about
paying for hospice care click here
to find the contact information for an AseraCare agency near you,
and someone from that office will help you.