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Hospice questions, answered
Clear answers to the questions families ask us most. Don't see yours? Call us any time.
About hospice
Does choosing hospice mean giving up?
No. Hospice changes the goal from curing the illness to comfort and quality of life, so your loved one can spend their time with less pain and more peace.
What is the difference between hospice and palliative care?
Palliative care focuses on comfort and can be given alongside treatment aimed at a cure, at any stage of illness. Hospice is comfort care for people who are no longer seeking a cure and whose doctor expects six months or less if the illness follows its usual course.
Does hospice speed up or delay death?
No. Hospice doesn't hasten or postpone death. It focuses on comfort and quality of life for the time your loved one has.
Where do you provide care?
In the patient's home, in nine counties across metro Atlanta. Call us to confirm we serve your address.
Eligibility and getting started
Who qualifies for hospice?
People with a serious illness whose doctor expects six months or less if the illness follows its usual course. The hospice physician and your loved one's doctor confirm eligibility.
Who can make a referral?
Anyone, including patients, family, friends, doctors, and discharge planners. We work with the patient's physician to confirm eligibility.
Can my loved one keep their own doctor?
Yes. Their doctor can stay involved, and we keep them updated on the care plan.
How quickly can care begin?
Care can usually start soon after eligibility is confirmed and consent forms are signed. We'll explain the timing for your situation on your first call.
Cost and coverage
Who pays for hospice care?
Medicare and Medicaid cover hospice for patients who qualify, usually with little or no cost to the family. We also work with in-network private plans and offer private pay. We'll check your coverage for you.
Is hospice covered if my loved one has a Medicare Advantage plan?
Yes. Hospice is covered by Original Medicare even for people with a Medicare Advantage plan. The plan can still cover care that isn't related to the hospice diagnosis.
Is there a limit on how long someone can receive hospice?
No. Medicare covers two 90-day benefit periods, then an unlimited number of 60-day periods, as long as a hospice doctor confirms your loved one still qualifies.
Care and support
How often will the hospice team visit?
Visits are scheduled around your loved one's needs and written into the care plan. As needs change, so does the schedule. A nurse is also on call 24/7.
Do you provide around-the-clock caregivers?
Hospice team members visit on a schedule and a nurse is on call 24/7, but hospice doesn't provide caregivers who stay in the home full time. Our social worker can help you explore options if your family needs more help.
What if we need help at night or on a weekend?
Call our main number any time. A hospice nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can visit when needed.
What if my loved one's condition improves?
A patient can stop hospice care at any time, and return later if they become eligible again.
Do you support families after a loss?
Yes. We offer grief support to your family for up to a year after a loss.
Do we have to be religious to receive spiritual care?
No. Our spiritual care counselors support people of every faith and people with none. Spiritual care is always optional.
We're here when you're ready.
Call any time to talk about hospice for someone you love. There's no cost or commitment to ask.