Who Qualifies
Understanding Hospice Eligibility
Hospice care is a Medicare and Medi-Cal benefit available to patients with a life-limiting illness. Earlier enrollment often means more time for comfort and connection.
General Criteria
Who is eligible for hospice care?
A patient may qualify for hospice when their physician determines that, if the illness follows its natural course, life expectancy is six months or less — and the patient chooses comfort over curative treatment.
A physician has determined a life expectancy of 6 months or less if the illness follows its natural course
The patient chooses comfort-focused care over curative treatment
Diagnosis includes cancer, heart failure, COPD, dementia, ALS, or other serious illness
Patient is enrolled in Medicare Part A, Medi-Cal, or qualifying private insurance
Care can be provided at home, in a skilled nursing facility, or assisted living
Family members and caregivers are included in the care plan at no additional cost
Common Diagnoses
Conditions we commonly support
Hospice is not limited to cancer. Many serious, life-limiting illnesses qualify. If you are unsure whether your loved one's diagnosis qualifies, please call us — we are happy to help you understand your options.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
Does choosing hospice mean giving up?
Not at all. Hospice is a choice to focus on quality of life and comfort rather than curative treatment. Many families find that hospice actually extends meaningful time together by reducing the burden of aggressive treatments.
Can a patient leave hospice if they improve?
Yes. Hospice is not a one-way door. If a patient's condition improves or they choose to pursue curative treatment again, they can leave hospice at any time and re-enroll later if needed.
Is hospice covered by Medicare?
Yes. Medicare Part A covers hospice care fully for eligible patients, including nursing visits, medications related to the terminal diagnosis, medical equipment, and bereavement support for the family.
Where is hospice care provided?
Hospice care comes to the patient — at home, in a skilled nursing facility, assisted living, or wherever the patient calls home. The goal is to keep patients comfortable in familiar surroundings.
How do I know if it's the right time?
There is no perfect moment, and many families wish they had called sooner. If your loved one has a serious illness and comfort has become the priority, we encourage you to reach out. Our team can help you understand your options with no pressure.
Take the Next Step
Not sure if your loved one qualifies?
Our care team can walk you through eligibility, answer your questions, and help you understand all available options — with no pressure and no obligation.