We know that choosing hospice care comes with a lot of questions — and that's completely normal. Below you'll find answers to some of the most common things families ask us. If you don't see your question here, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're always happy to talk.
-
A: Hospice care is specialized support for people with a terminal illness who have chosen to focus on comfort and quality of life rather than curative treatment. It provides medical, emotional, spiritual, and practical support for both the patient and their family — most often in the comfort of home.
-
A: No. Hospice is available when a physician certifies that a person has six months or less to live if the illness follows its natural course. Many patients receive hospice care for weeks or months and benefit greatly from early enrollment.
-
A: Not at all. Choosing hospice is choosing to prioritize comfort, dignity, and meaningful time with loved ones. Research shows that patients who enroll in hospice earlier often experience less pain, less anxiety, and more quality time with their families.
-
A: Yes. Patients can choose to leave hospice care at any time, for any reason, without penalty. They can also re-enroll in hospice later if they still meet the eligibility requirements.
-
A: No. Hospice is available for any terminal illness, including heart disease, COPD, dementia, Alzheimer's, kidney failure, ALS, and many others.
-
A: Hospice care is provided wherever the patient calls home — whether that's their own residence, a family member's home, an assisted living facility, or a skilled nursing facility.
-
A: For most patients, hospice care is covered at no out-of-pocket cost. Medicare, Medi-Cal, and most private insurance plans cover the full cost of hospice services, including nursing visits, medications related to the terminal diagnosis, medical equipment, and supplies.
-
A: Yes. The Medicare Hospice Benefit covers hospice care for Medicare-eligible patients who meet the criteria. Medi-Cal also covers hospice care for eligible patients. This includes all services provided by the hospice team, medications for symptom management, and medical equipment delivered to the home. Our team can help you verify coverage and navigate the enrollment process.
-
A: In most cases, there are no significant out-of-pocket costs for hospice care. There may be small copays for certain medications in some plans, but our team will always be upfront about any costs before care begins.
-
A: Please contact us. We can help you explore all available options and will do our best to ensure your loved one receives the care they need.
-
A: To qualify for hospice, a physician must certify that a patient has a terminal illness with a prognosis of six months or less to live if the illness follows its natural course. The patient must also choose to focus on comfort care rather than curative treatment.
-
A: Some signs that it may be time to consider hospice include frequent hospitalizations, a decline in ability to perform daily activities, uncontrolled pain or symptoms, significant weight loss, or a doctor suggesting that treatment is no longer effective. If you're asking the question, it's worth having a conversation with us.
-
A: A physician's certification is required, but you don't need a formal referral to reach out to us. You can call us directly and we'll help coordinate with your loved one's doctor.
-
A: In most cases, we can begin care within 24 to 48 hours of admission. Our team will work quickly to ensure a smooth and comfortable transition.
-
A: Yes. Your loved one can continue their relationship with their primary physician. Our hospice team works alongside existing providers to coordinate care.
-
A: Unlike many hospice providers, Universal Health Net is often able to continue hospice care while allowing patients to remain on dialysis when appropriate. We believe patients shouldn't have to make unnecessarily difficult choices, and our flexible approach reflects that.
-
A: Shortly after admission, one of our registered nurses will visit — often the same day — to assess your loved one's needs, review medications, and begin coordinating care. Any needed medical equipment is typically delivered and set up before or on the first day of care.
-
A: We are available around the clock — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you call us, you will speak directly with a member of our team. No answering services, no delays.
-
A: Hospice covers all medications related to the terminal diagnosis and symptom management, as well as medical supplies such as gloves, wound care items, and incontinence products. Medical equipment like hospital beds, oxygen, and wheelchairs is also provided and delivered to the home.
-
A: Absolutely. Hospice care is designed to support the entire family — not just the patient. Social workers, chaplains, and counselors are available to help family members navigate emotions, difficult decisions, and the challenges of caregiving.
-
A: Respite care provides temporary relief for family caregivers. Hospice can arrange for your loved one to receive care in a facility for a short period of time so that caregivers can rest, attend to personal needs, or simply recharge.
-
A: Yes. Bereavement support continues for up to 13 months after a loss. This includes phone check-ins, counseling, and access to support groups. Grief looks different for everyone, and we are here to walk alongside families through it.
-
Call us. Our team is here to listen, answer your questions, and help you figure out the next step — with no pressure and no obligation.
📞 (831) 920-3740