Hospice and Medicare: questions a family can ask

Let the clinical team explain eligibility

Doctors must certify a life expectancy of six months or less if the illness follows its normal course. Care can continue beyond six months with required recertification. This is not a prediction a broker can make.

Ask what the election means

Hospice focuses on comfort rather than treatment intended to cure the terminal illness and related conditions. Ask the team to explain which services it will arrange and how unrelated care is handled. Medicare can still cover eligible care for unrelated conditions.

Coordinate before arranging outside services

Care related to the terminal illness should be arranged through the hospice team. Ask whom to call before an outside appointment or service. Keep that number easy to find so the family does not have to untangle arrangements later.

Clarify where care will happen

Hospice does not generally cover room and board. Certain short inpatient or respite stays arranged by the hospice may qualify. Ask separately about the place of care, daily support, and any expected family expenses.

Make room for family questions

Ask about after hours support, medicines, equipment, caregiver teaching, and what to do when needs change. Request the answers in writing if that helps. Clinical concerns and treatment decisions belong with the hospice and treating clinicians.

Go straight to the source

• Hospice coverage
• Long term care

Sources checked September 28, 2026. General education, not a coverage determination or medical advice. Plan terms, eligibility, and state rules can vary. How we approach education

Keep the conversation going

• Help at home: what Medicare home health actually means
• Does Medicare pay for ongoing care as you get older?
• Helping a parent with Medicare, one conversation at a time