Paying For End-of-Life Care

Baby Boomers Feel the Squeeze

Concerns over the costs of healthcare are shared by almost every family across the country. Many baby boomers are providing care for their aging parents just as they are facing their own health care issues.

Yet, for almost 30 years, the Medicare Hospice Benefit has provided a model for financing end-of-life care that can bring great relief and support to families during one of life’s most difficult times.

This benefit covers virtually all aspects of hospice care with little out-of-pocket expense to the patient or family. As a result, the financial burdens often associated with caring for a terminally-ill patient are lifted.

Hospice care also offers supports to the loved ones of the patient; this brings an added level of relief to the dying person, knowing their loved ones are being cared for as well.

Hospice is paid for through the Medicare Hospice Benefit, Medicaid Hospice Benefit, and most private insurers.

Medicare covers these hospice services and pays nearly all of their costs:

Doctor services
Nursing care
Medical equipment (like wheelchairs or walkers)
Medical supplies (like bandages and catheters)
Drugs for symptom control and pain relief
Inpatient care including respite and care necessary for pain and symptom management
Home health aide
Social work services
Dietary counseling
Grief support

Medicare will still pay for covered benefits for any health problems that aren’t related to a terminal illness.

Hospice Means More Medical Care, Not Less

Hospice and palliative care involves a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support expressly tailored to the patient’s needs and wishes. Families making end-of-life decisions for a loved one need compassion and support, not financial worries. The Medicare Hospice Benefit helps alleviate these concerns.

To learn more, contact Houston Hospice at 281-468-2441 or 800-824-2911 or at info@houstonhospice.org.

To find a hospice or learn more about hospice care, visit Moments of Life at www.MomentsOfLife.org.