Hospice
Compassionate end-of-life care focused on comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and families.
What is Hospice?
Hospice care is a specialized approach designed for patients facing a life-limiting illness when curative treatment is no longer the goal. The focus shifts to comfort, pain management, emotional support, and quality time with loved ones.
Hospice can be provided in the patient's home, in a hospice facility, in a nursing home, or in the hospital. An interdisciplinary team — including nurses, physicians, social workers, counselors, spiritual care providers, and trained volunteers — surrounds the patient and family with comprehensive support.
Patient Path Hub helps families understand when hospice is appropriate, navigate the conversation, and connect with trusted hospice partners in their community.
Who Hospice is for
This type of care is recommended for patients who meet the following criteria. Our coordinators can help determine eligibility based on your specific situation.
- Patient has a life-limiting illness with a prognosis of 6 months or less
- Patient's physician and hospice medical director certify eligibility
- Patient (or legal representative) elects to focus on comfort care
- Patient is no longer pursuing curative treatment
Benefits of Hospice
How this service supports better outcomes, comfort, and peace of mind for patients and families.
Comfort-First Care
Pain and symptom management that prioritizes dignity and peace.
Whole-Family Support
Emotional, spiritual, and bereavement support for the entire family.
Care Wherever You Are
Provided at home, in facilities, or wherever the patient calls home.
Guidance for families
Making care decisions can feel overwhelming. Here’s what to keep in mind when considering hospice.
Ask about insurance coverage
Medicare, Medi-Cal, and many private plans cover hospice, but coverage details vary. Our coordinators can help you understand what your plan may cover before care begins.
Prepare questions in advance
Before meeting with a provider, write down your questions about the care plan, schedule, what to expect, and how to reach the care team. Our coordinators can help you build this list.
You’re not alone in this
Patient Path Hub stays involved throughout the care transition — we’re here to answer questions, address concerns, and help adjust the care plan as needs change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about hospice coordination through Patient Path Hub.
When is the right time to consider hospice?
Hospice is appropriate when a patient has a life-limiting illness and the focus shifts from cure to comfort. Many families wish they had started hospice sooner.
Does hospice mean giving up hope?
No. Hospice redefines hope — focusing on quality of life, comfort, meaningful moments, and family connection.
Is hospice covered by Medicare?
Yes. Medicare Hospice Benefit covers hospice services at 100%, including medications, equipment, and the interdisciplinary team.
Can a patient leave hospice?
Yes. Patients can revoke hospice at any time to pursue curative treatment, and can re-elect later if appropriate.
Does hospice provide 24/7 support?
Yes. Hospice provides 24/7 on-call clinical support, and continuous home care during crises.
Related Services
Patients who need hospice may also benefit from these coordinated services.
Palliative Care
Specialized medical care that provides relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness.
Learn moreHome Health
Skilled nursing, therapy, and support delivered safely at home after illness, injury, or hospitalization.
Learn moreCaregivers
Compassionate, trained caregivers to assist with daily living and provide family respite.
Learn moreMedical Equipment
Durable medical equipment (DME) — hospital beds, wheelchairs, oxygen, and more — delivered and set up at home.
Learn moreReady to request Hospice?
Our care coordinators are here to help you navigate next steps. Submit a referral or talk with us directly.