Health & Balance

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Eligibility for most hospice programs is based on two criteria:

• Your condition is considered incurable. This is called a terminal illness.
• Your doctor has indicated that your life expectancy is 6 months or less if your illness runs its normal course. Typically a form must be signed by your primary doctor as well as the medical director or physician member of a hospice team.¹

It can be hard for doctors to know how long a person will live. Some people live longer than expected. If you live longer than 6 months, you can continue on hospice. If your illness gets better, you can stop receiving hospice care.

Hospice care programs do not discriminate. Care is provided regardless of age, sex, religion, diagnosis or type of health problem, ethnic or cultural background, sexual orientation, or ability to pay.

Payment for hospice services is covered through Medicare and most Medicaid programs. Most, but not all, private insurance programs offer a hospice benefit. It is important to research whether your health insurance coverage offers hospice benefits and to find out exactly which services are included. Many hospice programs will research your medical coverage for you.

Frequently Asked Questions