Medicare, Medicaid & Other Options
Hospice care can be paid for in a variety of ways. Listed below are some options available to help pay for Accredited Hospices of America hospice services.
Medicare
If you’re a Medicare beneficiary, Part A covers hospice. This is an important benefit that has been earned over a lifetime. Don’t wait to use it. All other Medicare services continue under Parts A & B, including those of the person’s physician. Hospice payments do not interfere with any other Medicare payments for other illnesses, care or diseases.
Medicaid
Medicaid hospice benefits are the same as the Medicare benefit program, although there may be some variations under the Texas Medicaid program.
Private Insurance
Most employers’ insurance plans and many managed care plans offer hospice as a benefit. In a majority of cases, coverage is similar to the Medicare benefit, though there may be a few variations between employers.
Tricare
Tricare is the health benefits program for retired and current military personnel. Hospice is fully covered under TRICARE. However, only Medicare-certified hospices can provide for the TRICARE hospice benefit. Because of this, it is important that patients and family check with the Health Benefit Advisor or Health Care Finder to locate a qualified hospice agency.
Charity Care
Under the Medicare law, no person can be refused hospice care due to inability to pay. Funds may be available from gifts, donations, grants, or other community sources to cover the costs of care.