Is hospice care covered by insurance?
Hospice coverage is widely available and typically covers all services related to the hospice diagnosis. It is provided by Medicare nationwide, by Medicaid in 39 states, and by most private insurance providers. To be sure of coverage, families should, of course, check with their employee or health insurance provider.
Eighty percent (80%) of people who use hospice care are over the age of 65, and are thus entitled to the services offered by the Medicare Hospice Benefit. This benefit covers virtually all aspects of hospice care with little out-of-pocket expense to the patient or family. As a result, the financial burdens usually associated with caring for a terminally ill patient are virtually nonexistent. In addition, most private health plans and Medicaid cover hospice services.
Hospice coverage is provided by Medicare, Medicaid and by most private health insurance policies. Medicare and/or Medicaid are the most frequent sources of payment. Both will pay for medication relating to the terminal diagnosis, equipment needed for comfort and safety (typically a hospital bed, bedside commode and wheelchair) and the services of the hospice team. To be sure of coverage, families should, of course, check with the health insurance provider.
