Most people nowadays want to spend the last days they have in the comfort of their own home. Luckily, this has been made a possibility for most. This is because there is a specific type of care that allows people to pass peacefully at home.

This type of care is known as hospice care, which also encompasses home hospice, palliative care, respite care, and more. So, how do you know if you’re eligible for hospice care? Well, knowing who will qualify for hospice will depend on the kind of healthcare coverage you have. 

Here are some of the most common options.

The Medicare Hospice Benefit

Most adults who are aged 65 and older pay for hospice via the Medicare Hospice Benefit. Patients must meet all of the eligibility requirements which include: 

  • Your Doctor Confirms That You Have a Terminal Illness with Only Six Months or Less Left to Live

A person is only considered as terminally ill if their life expectancy is only six months or less if their disease is left to run its natural course. This is something that must be based on your doctor’s clinical judgment. 

  • You’re Ready to Cease Treatments to Cure Your Illness and Choosing Treatments That Improve Your Quality of Life and Comfort

When you choose the Medicare Hospice Benefit, you choose hospice care rather than curing your illness. You will work with a team of aides, physicians, nurses, and other specialists to work on your comfort and quality of life. 

  • Your Hospice Provider is Medicare-Approved

The Medicare Hospice Benefit will only apply to approved hospice agencies. Hospice providers need to meet certain criteria in order to become certified.

The Medicaid Hospice Benefit

Medicaid provides low-cost, and even free health insurance, for low-income families, elderly people, and groups. However, coverage will vary depending on where you live. Hospice care requirements usually include:

  • Your hospice provider is Medicaid-approved.
  • You’ve been diagnosed with a terminal illness.
  • You have six months or less to live if the disease runs its natural course.
  • You’re ready to stop treatments for your illness.

Private Insurance for Hospice

If you have private health insurance, it usually covers hospice if it is through a retirement program, employer, or the Affordable Care Act. Most plans require that:

  • You’ve been diagnosed with a terminal illness.
  • You are ready to cease any treatments that cure your illness.

Looking for the right hospice care provider, get in touch with the Hospice Group of Southern California today to get started!

More Information on Hospice and Healthcare: