Understanding Medicare and the Cost of Hospice Care

When a loved one begins hospice care, questions about cost can quickly become overwhelming. At Pallatus, we're here to simplify the process and remove financial uncertainty, so families can focus on care, comfort, and being together. The good news: Medicare covers nearly all costs associated with hospice care. This benefit ensures that families aren't burdened by unexpected expenses at such a critical time.

What Is the Medicare Hospice Benefit?

Medicare Part A offers a dedicated hospice benefit for people diagnosed with a terminal illness and a life expectancy of six months or less. Once a patient chooses comfort-focused care over curative treatment, they become eligible for hospice through Medicare, at no major cost to them.

What Does Medicare Pay For?

The Medicare hospice benefit is designed to fully support patients and families. It covers:

• • Medical visits from hospice nurses and physicians
  • Medications for pain relief and symptom management
  • Medical equipment such as hospital beds, oxygen, and wheelchairs
  • Personal care from certified hospice aides
  • Social work services and family counseling
  • Spiritual and emotional support
  • Short-term inpatient care or respite care, when needed

All these services are coordinated by the Pallatus care team, delivered wherever the patient calls home.

What Isn't Covered by Medicare?

While the benefit is comprehensive, Medicare does not cover:

• • Treatments aimed at curing the illness (like chemotherapy or radiation for cure)
  • Room and board at home or in a facility (unless for approved respite or inpatient care)
  • Emergency services unrelated to the terminal diagnosis, unless pre-approved by hospice

Patients always have the option to leave hospice and resume curative treatment, then return to hospice later if needed.

Are There Any Out-of-Pocket Costs?

Most families pay very little or nothing for hospice care under Medicare. There may be small copays, such as:

• • Up to $5 per prescription for outpatient symptom control
  • A small daily fee for inpatient respite care, when applicable

Compared to hospital stays or treatment plans, hospice care offers significant financial relief and peace of mind.

What If the Patient Lives Longer Than Six Months?

Hospice care can continue as long as a physician recertifies that the patient remains eligible. Many patients receive care for longer than six months. At Pallatus, we guide families through each step of recertification and ensure care never feels rushed or cut short.

Enrolling in Medicare-Covered Hospice

Enrollment is easy, and we help with every step. Once a doctor confirms the patient's eligibility, a form is signed to choose hospice care. Pallatus handles the paperwork, coordinates directly with Medicare, and begins services, usually within 24 to 48 hours.

Hospice Without Financial Fear

At Pallatus, we believe compassionate end-of-life care should be accessible, affordable, and free from stress. Thanks to Medicare, most families don't have to worry about the cost of hospice care. We're here to support you with clarity, compassion, and dignity, every step of the way.