In short
Ask any hospice how fast it can start, how often nurses and aides will visit, how quickly someone comes at night, which levels of care it provides, where respite and inpatient stays happen, and what your parent might pay. Then check the hospice on Medicare's Care Compare before you sign the election statement.
Questions to ask a hospice
Check the hospice's record
Medicare's Care Compare lists Medicare-approved hospices with quality measures and family survey results. Read two or three side by side. A hospice cannot be compared fairly on one number, so look at the family ratings for getting help quickly and for communication.
Your parent's rights
- Your parent can change hospice providers once during each benefit period.
- Your parent can stop hospice at any time.
- If the hospice says your parent no longer qualifies and you disagree, ask for the notice explaining the right to a fast review.
Questions families ask
Can we choose any hospice?
Yes, any Medicare-approved hospice that serves your parent's area. In a Medicare Advantage plan, Medicare's booklet says the plan must help you find a Medicare-approved hospice.
Can we switch hospices?
Yes, once during each benefit period.
Should the hospice give us a list of what it won't cover?
You can ask for it. Medicare says the hospice must give the list of items, services and drugs it has decided are unrelated to the terminal illness, with the reasons, within 3 to 5 days of your request.
Where can I see hospice ratings?
On Medicare's Care Compare, which shows Medicare-approved hospices with quality measures and family caregiver survey results.