By Roz Jones
When a loved one is nearing the end of their life, it’s important to know what kind of care is available to them and how it will be covered. Hospice care is a type of skilled care that focuses on providing comfort and support to patients who are facing a terminal illness. While hospice care can be provided in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and at home, most hospice care is provided in the home.
Medicare and Medicaid are two government-sponsored programs that can help cover the cost of hospice care. In general, Medicare will cover hospice care for patients with a life expectancy of six months or less, while Medicaid will cover hospice care for patients with a life expectancy of two months or less.
What Services Are Covered Under Medicare?
Medicare will cover all services related to the terminal illness and its management, including:
- Doctor services
- Nursing care
- Medical equipment (like hospital beds)
- Prescriptions
- Home health aides
- Social work services
- Dietician services
- Spiritual counseling
- Grief counseling
- Short-term inpatient care (for pain and symptom management)
What Services Are Covered Under Medicaid?
In addition to the services covered under Medicare, Medicaid will also cover:
- RN Case Management Services (which may include physician services, social work services, homemaker services, and physical therapy)
- Respite Care (to give caregivers a much-needed break)
When it comes time to make decisions about end-of-life care, it’s important to know what options are available and how they will be covered. Hospice care is a type of skilled care that focuses on providing comfort and support to patients who are facing a terminal illness. Medicare and Medicaid are two government-sponsored programs that can help cover the cost of hospice care. In general, Medicare will cover hospice care for patients with a life expectancy of six months or less, while Medicaid will cover hospice care for patients with a life expectancy of two months or less. Knowing what services are covered under each program can help you make the best decision for your loved one’s care.
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