Many patients and families often ask us, “How will I pay for hospice care?” Fortunately, Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurances cover hospice care, which includes nursing and physician services, medications for disease management, durable medical equipment (i.e. hospital beds, wheelchairs) and medical supplies.
The process begins when a physician certifies the patient has a prognosis of six months or less to live if their illness runs its normal course. The billing team at Hospice of Northwest Ohio will manage the insurance verification process for the patient and will also contact private insurance providers to confirm benefits, as coverage varies by plan. Medicare Part A or Medicaid also have hospice benefits. Veterans may have coverage through the VA healthcare system.
The cost for inpatient hospice care, including room and board, will be covered by insurance for as long as the patient requires this higher level of care. Once symptoms are managed, the cost of care will continue to be covered, but a daily room and board fee will be the patient’s responsibility.
At Hospice of Northwest Ohio, no one is ever turned away due to inability to pay. If a patient does not have insurance, or has limited financial resources, our social workers will help the patient and family complete a financial assessment. This provides us with information to identify their potential out-of-pocket costs ahead of time and create a payment plan or help them with financial assistance.
If you have questions or concerns about paying for hospice care, please call 419-661-4001 and ask to speak to a member of our admissions team.