SimplyNaya plain-language guide
What Medicare Covers for Hospice Care
Medicare Part A can cover a comprehensive hospice plan for an eligible person who chooses comfort-focused care. Here are the essentials to understand before care begins.
Who may qualify?
A person must have Medicare Part A. A hospice doctor and the person’s regular doctor, if they have one, certify that the person is terminally ill with a life expectancy of six months or less if the illness follows its usual course. The person chooses comfort-focused hospice care rather than treatment intended to cure the terminal illness and related conditions, and signs a hospice election statement.
What can the hospice benefit include?
Nursing, physician services, symptom management and care coordinated through the hospice plan.
Drugs for pain and symptom control, medical equipment and supplies related to the terminal illness.
Hospice aides, social work, spiritual care, caregiver education and grief support.
Short-term inpatient care for symptoms that cannot be managed in the current setting and respite care when arranged by hospice.
What might a family pay?
- Generally nothing for covered hospice services from a Medicare-approved hospice.
- Up to $5 for each outpatient prescription for pain and symptom management.
- Five percent of the Medicare-approved amount for inpatient respite care.
- Room and board usually remains the resident’s responsibility in a private home, assisted living community or nursing facility.
- Normal deductibles and coinsurance may apply to care for health problems unrelated to the terminal illness.
Important coordination rules
Care related to the terminal illness generally must be provided or arranged by the chosen hospice. Contact the hospice before using an emergency department, hospital or ambulance for a related need unless immediate emergency action is necessary. Otherwise, the family could become responsible for costs.
You may request a written list of items, services and drugs the hospice considers unrelated to the terminal illness, including its reasons. Ask what will be covered before signing and whenever the plan changes.
How long can hospice continue?
The benefit begins with two 90-day periods, followed by an unlimited number of 60-day periods. Hospice may continue beyond six months when the person remains eligible and is recertified as required.
Your choices remain yours
A beneficiary may change hospice providers once during each benefit period. A person may also revoke hospice and may elect it again later if eligible. Ask the hospice to explain how either decision would affect care and coverage.
Last reviewed August 15, 2026. Medicare rules and costs can change. Confirm current information with Medicare and the selected hospice. SimplyNaya is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare, CMS or HHS.
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