Eligibility for end-of-life care requires affirmation from both a hospice physician and your personal doctor (should you have one) that you are indeed facing a terminal condition, with a prognosis of 6 months or less to live. By electing hospice care, you are opting for treatment that prioritizes comfort (otherwise known as palliative care) rather than curative measures for your end-stage illness. Additionally, you must complete a document confirming your choice of hospice care over other Medicare-covered options for treating your terminal disease and any secondary ailments.
Inclusions in coverage are:
• Essential goods and services for alleviating pain and managing symptoms
• Healthcare, nursing, and community support services
• Medications intended for pain control and symptom management
• Sturdy healthcare equipment to ease pain and help with symptom management
• Assistance services and housekeeping
• Additional insured services required to control your pain and symptoms, along with emotional and bereavement counseling for both you and your loved ones.
Medicare-sanctioned end-of-life care is typically administered in your own dwelling or a residential setting such as a hospice facility or nursing home. Original Medicare continues to cover eligible expenses for any medical issues that are not related to your terminal illness and accompanying conditions, although most of your care needs should be met by the hospice team.
Medicare does not cover the costs of lodging and board during your stay in a facility unless the hospice medical personnel determine that short-duration inpatient care is necessary for pain and symptom control. This level of care has to take place in a Medicare-approved establishment, such as a dedicated hospice center, hospital, or skilled nursing home that has an agreement with the hospice provider.
