Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will my Doctor know about Hospice?

A: The vast majority of physicians in practice today know about Hospice. If you are diagnosed with a terminal illness, ask your physician about Hospice Care or contact your local Interim HealthCare Hospice office and they will be able to provide materials and information.

Q: Who makes the decision for a patient to enter Hospice Care?

A: It is always the decision of the patient to receive Hospice Care. The patient's family and doctors are involved in the decision, but ultimately the choice rests with the patient.

Q: What if my diagnosis is not cancer?

A: As long as a physician certifies that you are terminally ill or have a life-limiting illness, and you and your family desire no further aggressive/curative treatments, you are eligible for Hospice Care. Interim HealthCare Hospice has provided services to patients facing Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, respiratory diseases, end-stage renal disease and many more.

Q: What specific assistance does Hospice provide in the home?

A: Hospice patients are cared for by a group of doctors, nurses, social workers, counselors, Hospice aides, chaplains, therapists and volunteers. In addition, Hospice Care provides medications, supplies, equipment, hospital services and additional helpers in the home, if and when needed.

Q: Does Hospice do anything to make death come sooner?

A: No, Hospices do nothing either to speed up or slow down the dying process. Just as doctors and midwives lend support and expertise during the time of childbirth, Hospice care provides its presence and specialized knowledge during the dying process.

Q: Is Hospice Care covered by insurance?

A: Hospice coverage is widely available in most healthcare plans. It is provided by Medicare and by most private health insurance policies. Some states' Medicaid programs offer a Hospice-covered benefit.

Q: If the patient is covered by Medicare, will there be any additional expenses to be paid?

A: Medicare covers all services and supplies for the Hospice patient. Interim HealthCare Hospice does not charge the patient the allowable coinsurance amount on medications and respite care.

Q: Must someone be with the patient at all times?

A: In the early weeks of care, it's usually not necessary for someone to be with the patient all the time. Later, however, since one of the most common fears of patients is the fear of dying alone, Hospice generally recommends someone be available on an around-the-clock basis.

Q: Does Hospice Care provide any help to the family after the patient dies?

A: Interim HealthCare Hospice provides continuing contact and support for family and friends for at least 13 months following the loss of a loved one.

Q: What if we are not sure if Hospice is appropriate?

A: Please call your local Interim HealthCare Hospice office. We will provide a Hospice evaluation to help the patient and family explore all of the care options available.

Q: When should you contact an Interim HealthCare Hospice office?

A: The decision to enter Hospice Care can be made at the time of the diagnosis of a terminal disease, or later in the course of treatment.

Q: What do patients and families say?

A: "We wish we had known about Hospice sooner." Unfortunately, over 30 percent of those receiving Hospice Care only benefit from it for seven days or fewer.