Hospice or Palliative Care?

Who is it for?

For anyone living with a serious or chronic illness.

For anyone with a prognosis of six months or less to live if the illness takes its course.

What does it involve?

Helps patients live as independently as possible through:

• Managing complex symptoms
• Treating pain & stress
• Clarifying goals of care with family and medical team

Palliative care centers on each patient's goals and quality of life. It can be provided alongside curative or life-prolonging treatment.

Helps patients and families meet their unique end-of-life goals through:

• Managing complex symptoms
• Treating pain & stress
• Addressing emotional and spiritual needs
• Providing education and guidance
• Offering grief support

Available to people who are no longer seeking curative treatment.

How long is care provided?

Palliative care is offered to patients with advancing symptoms over a period of several months to a year. During this time, the care team helps manage pain and other symptoms, supports independence, and keeps patients as comfortable and active as possible.

While hospice is for people with a prognosis of six months or less, the length of care varies. Some patients may only need hospice for a few days, while others may remain on hospice for several months.

There is no automatic time limit once someone is on hospice. Care can continue beyond six months as long as the patient continues to meet eligibility criteria.

Where is care provided?

Our team visits patients wherever they call home, including a house, an assisted living community, a skilled nursing facility, or a hospital.

Care is delivered through a blend of virtual and in-person visits, allowing our team to provide timely support and to stay connected to patients and families.

Our team visits patients wherever they call home, including a house, an assisted living community, a skilled nursing facility, or a hospital.

Additionally, our two hospice houses are available for patients who need a higher level of attention or support.

Who is on the care team?

A dedicated team includes a physician, nurse practitioner, nurse, and social worker focused on your comfort and goals.

An interdisciplinary care team includes hospice physician, nurse case manager, hospice aide, social workers, spiritual counselor, bereavement counselor, and trained volunteers.

What if my care plan changes?

Palliative care is offered as a layer of added support on top of existing healthcare providers.

If your symptoms are well managed, you may no longer need active palliative care.

As your serious illness progresses, some patients may transition to hospice. We will help guide you and your family through this transition, ensuring it aligns with your goals.

Hospice is not necessarily a final choice. If a patient decides to once again pursue curative treatments, they can leave hospice and seek the care they want.

If, at a later date, they want to return to hospice, they can.

How are costs covered?

Covered by Medicare B, Medicaid and most private insurance.

Covered for most patients by Medicare A, Medicaid and most private insurance.