Hospice Basics
When is the Right Time for Hospice?
Recognizing the signs that hospice care may be beneficial for your family.
Read guide →Understanding who qualifies for hospice care and how eligibility is determined.
Written and reviewed by a board-certified hospice & palliative medicine physician
Last reviewed:
A doctor certifies that the patient has a terminal illness with a life expectancy of 6 months or less if the disease runs its normal course.
The patient (or legal representative) chooses hospice care and agrees to focus on comfort rather than curative treatment.
Both the patient's attending physician and the hospice medical director must certify terminal prognosis.
Hospice is available for patients of all ages with any terminal diagnosis, including:
Children with terminal conditions are also eligible for hospice. Specialized pediatric hospice teams provide age-appropriate care for infants, children, and teens with life-limiting conditions.
Hospice is available to patients of all ages—from newborns to the elderly. The 6-month prognosis requirement is the same regardless of age.
Who qualifies: Anyone enrolled in Medicare (Part A) with a terminal diagnosis.
What it covers: The Medicare hospice benefit covers core hospice services with no deductible for the hospice benefit itself; small copays or coinsurance may apply in limited situations.
Small copays only for: Medications ($5) and respite care (5% of Medicare payment rate).
Most state Medicaid programs, including Texas Medicaid, cover hospice services with little or no cost to the patient.
Most private insurance plans cover hospice care. Coverage varies by plan—check with your insurance provider for specific benefits.
Veterans may receive hospice through VA benefits or Medicare. Some hospices offer special programs honoring veterans.
Many hospice providers offer charity care and will not deny services based on ability to pay. Many nonprofits have financial assistance programs.
A: Yes! Hospice can provide care wherever you live—your home, a nursing facility, assisted living, or memory care.
A: You can leave hospice at any time to pursue curative treatment. You can also re-enroll later if needed.
A: No. You only stop treatments aimed at curing the terminal illness. You can continue medications for comfort and symptom management.
A: You can contact a hospice provider directly for an evaluation. Hospice can help facilitate the conversation with your doctor.
Ask: "Am I eligible for hospice?" or "Would hospice be appropriate for me?"
Most providers offer free consultations to assess eligibility. There's no obligation.
A hospice nurse can visit to discuss your situation and determine if you meet criteria.
Explore related hospice topics and practical family guidance.
Hospice Basics
Recognizing the signs that hospice care may be beneficial for your family.
Read guide →Hospice Basics
Understanding the basics of hospice care and when it's appropriate for your loved one.
Read guide →Financial & Medicare
Understanding Medicare coverage and what families may pay out-of-pocket for hospice care.
Read guide →Explore hospice providers and care options for families across Texas.