Many other hospice benefit programs follow these same guidelines set by Medicare. Patients with terminal illnesses do not usually have to pay for hospice care. Hospice care costs are covered by Medicare (through Medicare Hospice Benefit), Medicaid (in most states), and The Veterans Health Administration.
Health Insurance
Many private insurance companies provide some coverage for hospice care. Check with your insurer to determine whether hospice care is covered and under what circumstances. Among private insurers, there are variations in qualifications and covered benefits.
Individuals Who Don’t Have Insurance
If you do not have insurance coverage and cannot otherwise afford the service, a hospice may provide care free of charge or on a sliding scale basis. This financial assistance is provided through donations, gifts, grants, or other community sources. Call your local hospice to know if they are able and willing to offer care for free or at a reduced cost in your case.
How Is Hospice Care Paid for?
Whether a patient is eligible for hospice benefits may vary depending on who is covering the cost of care. Currently, most hospice care in the US is covered by the Medicare Hospice Benefit, which has the following requirements:
- The patient needs to be diagnosed with a terminal illness, and be 65 years or older.
- The patient needs a doctor, and hospice medical directors are required to certify that the patient has six months or less to live.
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