Hospice is specialized care for someone who's in the late stages -- a prognosis of six months or less -- of a terminal illness. Hospice focuses on maximizing comfort and quality of life during the patient's final days. Once someone chooses hospice care, it means he or she gives up treatment for the terminal illness or condition. Hospice care is usually delivered at home, with specially trained nurses and aides providing maximum pain relief and close attention to patient comfort. If a doctor certifies that a patient is eligible for hospice and he or she chooses it, Part A will pay for the care provided by a Medicare-certified hospice.