There are many parts to Medicare. Not knowing what each part does and does not cover can create confusion and unnecessary expenses.
But with simple guidance it’s easy to know what is covered and what you can expect to pay for.
This week I want to talk about Medicare and hospice. While this is something that I hope you and your loved ones don’t need for a long time, I want to quickly share some key points to keep in mind.
In this week’s blog I want to make it clear as to what Medicare covers when it comes to Hospice so you know what to expect.
Hospice care is usually given in your home, but it may be covered in a hospice inpatient facility. When a family chooses hospice care, they agree you no longer want to cure your illness and/or your doctor determines the efforts to cure your illness aren’t working.
The doctor must also certify that you have six months or less to live.
Medicare won’t cover room and board for hospice care in your home or a hospice inpatient facility.
But, if your hospice team determines you need short term inpatient or respite care services, Medicare will cover part of the cost of your stay in the facility as long as you are eligible for Part A (Hospital) benefits.
Some of the hospice services Medicare will cover include: doctors services, nursing care, durable medical equipment, Medicare supplies, medication for symptom control or pain relief, social worker services, and grief & loss counseling for the family
You may have to pay a small amount for the respite care.
Hospice care is very beneficial to the patient and should be assessed as soon as possible when the end of life is near. It will enhance the quality of life for your loved one and give the caregivers a break, as caring for a terminally ill patient can be very stressful.
Our community is fortunate to have a hospice care facility. It allows entire families to be with their loved ones in the final stage of life. The atmosphere is welcoming. Soft music is playing and a feeling of calm surrounds all those who are present in the room.
Last year during Christmas I was invited to join a family grieving for their mother. They asked me to play my autoharp and accompany her to the words of Silent Night. Her eyes were closed but she heard the music and sang all of the words since the last senses to go are usually hearing and touch.
The next day she died peacefully in her sleep. Hospice care eased the anxieties for the family and offered their mother a chance to die with dignity surrounded by those she loved the most.
Again, I hope you don’t need to use these services anytime soon, but if you do I hope this blog helps you better understand how Medicare can help cover hospice care.
-Larry
The Medicare Coach
