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Can Hospice and Home Care Work at the Same Time?
Date Updated: January 12, 2025
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Karina is a seasoned content writer with a robust foundation in English and Political Science. With extensive experience in senior living projects, she specializes in assisted living and memory care topics. Her well-researched articles aim to empower older adults throughout the United States by providing informative and supportive resources.
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Dr. Brindusa Vanta is a health care professional, researcher, and an experienced medical writer (2000+ articles published online and several medical ebooks). She received her MD degree from “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine, Romania, and her HD diploma from OCHM – Toronto, Canada.
How Does Hospice and Home Care Work?
Hospice care, also known as end-of-life care, provides comfort and support to patients with terminal illnesses. Instead of focusing on curative treatments, it prioritizes pain management, quality of life and emotional support. Over 1.7 Americans enrolled in hospice care in 2021, demonstrating the importance of this service.
Home care, meanwhile, encompasses a wide range of nonmedical, supportive services. Depending on the patient's needs, home care includes personal care, housekeeping and assistance with daily living activities. Caregivers deliver these services in the patient's home, as opposed to in a hospital or health care facility. According to a 2021 study, 88% of Americans prefer home care over professional facilities.
How Do I Combine Hospice and Home Care?
Combining hospice with home care allows patients to receive vital support in a comfortable, familiar environment. It also makes it easier for families to stay involved with the care process.
Generally, hospice programs or providers arrange this care. Many patients find hospice providers through hospitals or independent agencies. The provider assembles a hospice team, which includes doctors, nurses, social workers, counselors and home health aides. The team visits the patient's home regularly to provide care. In addition to a hospice team, the patient needs a primary caregiver to provide 24/7 support, which can include friends, family members, volunteers or live-in aides. This person makes vital decisions and works with the hospice team to ensure a good quality of life.
How Do I Pay for Hospice at Home?
Insurance plans generally cover the cost of hospice care. Many patients depend on Medicare, which offers coverage for hospice care at home or in a facility. It's important to carefully consult your insurance plan to determine the best care plan for you.