How is hospice care paid for?
Patients with a terminal illness do not usually have to pay for hospice care.
Currently, most hospice patients have their costs covered by Medicare, through the Medicare Hospice Benefit.
Medicaid also pays for hospice care in most states. People become eligible for Medicaid when their income and assets are low.
Medicaid provides benefits that are very similar to the Medicare Hospice Benefits.
The Veteran’s Health Administration also covers hospice care. If you think you may be eligible, you can read further information for veteran’s benefits. The Veteran’s Health Administration provides benefits that are very similar to the Medicare Hospice Benefits.
Many private insurance companies provide some coverage for hospice care. Check with your insurer to determine whether hospice care is covered and under what circumstances. Among private insurers, there are variations in qualifications and covered benefits.
If you do not have insurance coverage and cannot otherwise afford the service, a hospice may provide care free of charge or on a sliding scale basis. This financial assistance is provided through donations, gifts, grants or other community sources.
Please call Stein Hospice at 732-227-1212 for more information.