For Patients and Families
What is hospice care?
Hospice care is specialized support for individuals with a terminal illness who are no longer pursuing curative treatment. It focuses on managing symptoms, preserving dignity, and easing the end-of-life journey.
Who qualifies for hospice?
A physician must certify that a patient has a terminal condition with a prognosis of six months or less. Eligibility requirements differ by diagnosis and disease progression.
Where is hospice provided?
Services are delivered wherever the patient resides—at home, in a nursing facility, or in an inpatient hospice setting.
Does choosing hospice mean giving up on treatment?
No. Hospice shifts care from curative treatment to comfort-driven support. Our staff provides medications and therapies to control pain and manage symptoms.
How is hospice paid for?
Hospice is typically covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans for eligible patients.
When should we consider calling hospice?
We recommend reaching out when you notice a general decline in health despite treatment, or when a serious illness significantly impacts quality of life.
Will hospice take over all care?
We coordinate closely with physicians, facility staff, and family caregivers to enhance the care already in place.
What does day-to-day hospice care look like?
Daily care depends on individual needs but may involve medication management, help with personal care, counseling, and on-call support.
Is hospice only for the very final days?
Hospice is intended for the final months of life, and many patients receive care and support for weeks or even months.
What is the admissions process?
Admissions typically start with a referral from a physician or facility, followed by an evaluation to confirm eligibility and explain services. Our team is available to admin 24/7.
For Referring Professionals
How does Arc Hospice and Palliative Care partner with hospitals?
Our team integrates with facility staff to address symptom management, coordinate care, and maintain open communication.
What does hospice support look like in a facility setting?
We provide interdisciplinary support within your facility, managing complex symptoms and maintaining regular communication with staff.
How do I refer a patient to Arc Hospice and Palliative Care?
Simply contact our intake team — we handle eligibility verification, communication with physicians, and all follow-up.
How do I determine if a patient is eligible for hospice care?
Eligibility involves a terminal diagnosis and a prognosis of six months or less. We also assist with case reviews and provide guidance on disease-specific criteria.
How do I start the discussion with my patient and their family?
Frame the conversation around their goals of care, focusing on how hospice supports quality of life and symptom relief while providing family support. We can also provide talking points or printed resources to support your discussion.
Additional questions? Get in touch!
At your side
Exploring hospice care for yourself or a loved one? Our team is here to help.