What Does Hospice Care Include? Services Explained for Families
What Does Hospice Care Include? Services Explained for Families
When a loved one is referred to hospice, families often have questions—not just about what it means emotionally, but also about what’s actually included in hospice care. Understanding the full range of services can help families feel more confident, supported, and prepared during this important time.
At its core, hospice care focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life. Rather than continuing curative treatment, hospice provides care that is centered on managing symptoms, reducing stress, and offering emotional and spiritual support for both the patient and their family.
Medical Care That Prioritizes Comfort
Hospice includes regular visits from a registered nurse who monitors the patient’s condition and manages symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and anxiety. Our nurses are trained in comfort-focused care and work closely with the patient’s doctor to ensure all care decisions are aligned with the patient’s wishes.
Medications related to the patient’s terminal diagnosis are provided as part of hospice care, and we coordinate with local pharmacies to ensure timely delivery.
A Full Care Team—At No Cost to the Family
Hospice services are fully covered by Medicare, Medi-Cal, and most private insurances, with no out-of-pocket cost to the patient or family.
That coverage includes a full interdisciplinary care team:
Nurses to manage clinical needs
Home health aides to assist with bathing and personal care
Social workers to help with emotional, legal, and financial concerns
Chaplains for spiritual support, if desired
Volunteers who offer different services
Every member of the team works together to support the patient’s well-being and to reduce stress for the family.
Equipment and Supplies Delivered to the Home
Hospice provides durable medical equipment (like hospital beds, oxygen, walkers, etc.) and all necessary medical supplies—such as gloves, wound care items, and incontinence products. These are delivered quickly, often arriving before the patient is even admitted, to ensure that comfort and safety are never delayed.
Emotional and Spiritual Support for the Whole Family
Hospice isn’t only about the patient—it’s also about the loved ones. Grief support, counseling, and resources are available throughout the process and even after the patient has passed. Our goal is to help families feel supported and cared for every step of the way.
Available Around the Clock
Hospice teams are available 24/7 for urgent needs or questions. At Universal Health Net, when you call us, you’ll reach someone directly—no answering services, no delays. That’s something our families truly value.
Hospice care is about living as fully and comfortably as possible in the time that remains. If you have questions about how hospice works or whether it might be the right step for your loved one, call us anytime to speak directly with a nurse at (831) 920-3740. We’re here to help.
