Choosing a hospice provider is important because it means choosing who will provide you or your loved one with end-of-life care. Ensure that you are making an informed decision by asking a lot of questions. A good starting point in your search is by asking friends and family or trusted medical professionals for recommendations. When evaluating a hospice provider, consider their history, reputation, and whether they hire their own employees or contract with other agencies. Check their certification, licensing and payment policies, and find out whether they accept Medicare, Medicaid, VA benefits, private insurance coverage, or whatever you plan to fund your hospice care with.
Determining what type of care the hospice service provides is essential to your search. Make sure to ask if the provider creates an individualized care plan, what the interdisciplinary team looks like, how frequently they will visit, and if they will educate family members on how to provide care to the patient when they are at home. When determining if the hospice provider fits your needs, ask about their response to emergencies, including when hospice care can start, if patients are admitted 24/7—including after hours, weekends, and holidays—and whether they have a 24-hour hotline. Consider also the support services offered by the hospice provider and whether they are in line with what you are looking for. Some services you may want include: music therapy, massage therapy, pet visits, bereavement counseling, and spiritual support. Before choosing a hospice provider, take the time to consider what is important to you and make sure you feel comfortable with your decision.