FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Hospice FAQ
Who pays for hospice?

Hospice is covered by Medicare/Medicaid benefits for as long as a patient is eligible. In some circumstances, coverage may fall under private insurance policies.

Are medications and equipment covered?

Dignity Hospice offers complete coverage of medications directly related to a patient’s hospice diagnosis as well as medications for comfort. Upon the initial assessment, Dignity’s Registered Nurse (RN) Case Managers thoroughly review and discuss a patient’s medications with the patient and/or family directly, as well as with Dignity’s Medical Director. Dignity’s Medical Director ultimately determines which medications will be covered.

Dignity Hospice also provides any necessary Durable Medical Equipment (DME). All DME is delivered wherever a patient calls “home”, free of charge, to assist with comfort, safety and quality of life. Upon admission, Dignity’s RN Case Managers work with the patient and their family to discuss their specific DME needs and answer any questions they might have. A patient’s equipment may include, but is not limited to, a wheelchair, walker, hospital bed, bedside table, bedside commode, oxygen, etc.

Finally, when needed, Dignity Hospice provides any necessary medical supplies such as briefs, wipes, gloves, wound care supplies, etc. These items are ordered by Dignity’s RN Case Managers and are delivered to the patient’s home, free of charge.

How long can one be on hospice?

The Medicare hospice benefit is a lifetime benefit, meaning as long as an individual qualifies, they are entitled to the services. In other words, you cannot “use up” your hospice benefits. We encourage individuals to consider electing their hospice entitlement earlier, rather than later, so as to enjoy the full benefits of the service.

How soon can someone start hospice?

Dignity Hospice is available 24 hours-a-day/7 days-a-week and is proud to offer a two-hour response time for all hospice consultations/assessments. If you or your loved one are needing to start hospice care, or if you’re simply interested in learning more, we are here to help. To learn more, please give us a call at (720) 222-3315.

When should hospice be considered, does it mean I'm 'giving-up'?

Hospice is designed to provide the best possible quality of life for someone facing a life limiting illness. An evaluation, by a Dignity Hospice RN Case Manager, when requested in consultation with your doctor, can be done free of charge to determine if you or your loved one are eligible to receive hospice services. Dignity Hospice can provide an improved quality of life for a patient and their family for many months prior to their passing. Signing up for hospice does not mean one is “giving up”, but rather making a positive decision to embrace the time they have left by increasing support and minimizing pain and discomfort. To learn more, please give us a call at (720) 222-3315.

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