Hospice Frequently Asked Questions

What is hospice care?
When is hospice care appropriate?
How does a person qualify for hospice care?
What is palliative care nursing?
Does medical insurance cover hospice care?
How can hospice care be arranged?

Following is information that you need to know about hospice care, specialized hospice care for the elderly and palliative care nursing.

What is hospice care?
The purpose of hospice is not to hasten or postpone death. Hospice care is intended to enhance the quality-of-life for people with terminal illnesses. Based upon the ancient principle that every life has meaning until its last moments, the hospice care movement that began in 1968 has shifted the emphasis of end-of-life care from impersonal, clinical settings back to environments with greater comfort and dignity.

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When is hospice care appropriate?
Hospice care is appropriate from the time a patient receives a life-limiting prognosis of six months or less and aggressive medical treatment is discontinued.

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How does a person qualify for hospice care?
To qualify for hospice care, a patient must have received a life-limiting prognosis of six months or less. VNA Hospice services can be initiated at any time after that point and extended as warranted by patient needs. Click here to request more information or call us at 1-800-WE-VISIT (1-800-938-4748) and ask for the VNA Hospice.

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What is palliative care nursing?
Palliative care nursing focuses on compassionately providing practical assistance with pain and symptom management and working with patients and their loved ones to make informed decisions about end-of-life issues. Each VNA Hospice patient and their family is supported by a team of caring individuals assembled and led by a nurse who has achieved National Hospice and Palliative Care (NHPC) certification.

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Does medical insurance cover hospice care?
In most instances, the cost of hospice care is covered by Medicaid, Medicare or private insurance. In addition, the VNA makes hospice care available to all who need it without regard for their ability to pay.

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How can hospice care be arranged?
Hospice care is arranged by request of the patient, the patient's physicians, hospital discharge planner, or the patient's family or friends. Contact the VNA Hospice here or call us at 1-800-WE-VISIT.