Copayments are not usually required, and medications related to the terminal illness are paid for by Medicare. 1 Characteristics of Hospice Patient life expectancy is 6 months or less. Coordination is by an interdisciplinary team, including spiritual advisors such as priest, rabbi or minister. Pain management and symptom control are the primary focus. Family counseling and bereavement services are available for one year after patient death.
Approach is palliative rather than curative.
Patients sign a statement choosing hospice care instead of standard Medicare benefits for the terminal illness. Adapted with permission from the Department of Geriatric Health. Reviewing the hospice plan of care for the patient. Making ongoing visits with the patient. Prescribing medication for comfort care.