Understanding Physician Billing in Hospice: What Families Need to Know
Learn how hospice physician billing works under Medicare, what's covered, and how Pallatus supports families through every step of the billing process with clarity and care.
When someone enters hospice, families often expect comfort and care, not confusion around physician bills. At Pallatus, we make sure you understand how hospice physician billing works from day one. Clarity on coverage and costs means you can focus on what truly matters: your loved one.
Who Bills for What in Hospice?
Physician billing during hospice depends on who provides the care and whether it relates to the terminal diagnosis.
- <strong>Hospice Medical Director or Hospice Physician: </strong> This doctor manages the patient's care plan within the hospice program. Their services are included in the hospice benefit, so you won't get billed separately.
- <strong>Your Regular Doctor (Attending Physician): </strong> If the patient chooses to keep their primary doctor involved, that doctor may bill Medicare directly if they're not part of the hospice staff. This is called Part B billing and usually covers routine check-ins or guidance not handled by the hospice team.
- <strong>Outside Specialists or Consultants: </strong> If your loved one sees another doctor, like a cardiologist or dermatologist, and the visit isn't related to the terminal condition, those services may also be billed under Medicare Part B.
When Might You Receive a Bill?
Most hospice-related physician services are fully covered under Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance. However, a bill might appear if:
- A non-hospice doctor provides care and bills Medicare directly
- The treatment is for a condition unrelated to the terminal illness
- The care falls outside the approved hospice care plan
If a bill shows up and it's unclear why, don't stress. Our team can review it with you and help resolve any confusion.
How We Help You Stay Informed
Clear coordination prevents billing surprises. Here's how you can help us help you:
- Tell us if your loved one wants to keep their primary doctor involved
- Let us know about any outside appointments ahead of time
- Check with us before scheduling non-urgent visits for unrelated conditions
We handle communication between all providers so you're not caught off guard.
Behind-the-Scenes Billing Support
At Pallatus, our billing support doesn't stop with enrollment. Our team:
- Verifies your hospice coverage
- Clarifies who's billing for what and when
- Handles insurance claims and follows up on denied or unclear charges
- Keeps you updated on what requires prior approval
You'll never have to navigate billing codes or paperwork alone. We simplify the system so you can focus on your family.
Your Peace of Mind Matters
Physician billing shouldn't feel like a second burden. When families understand what's covered and how billing works, hospice becomes what it should be: a time for care, not confusion. Pallatus is here for your questions, your concerns, and your peace of mind. Billing may be complex, but with the right team, it doesn't have to be stressful.
