Who Pays for Hospice Care at Home? What You Need to Know



Healthy Aging
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Hospice Care Is Often Fully Covered

When a loved one needs end-of-life care, families often feel overwhelmed—not just emotionally, but financially. One of the most common questions is: Who pays for hospice care at home? The answer may bring relief.

In many cases, in-home hospice care is fully covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance. This means families can focus on making the most of their time together instead of worrying about unexpected medical expenses.

Medicare Coverage for Hospice

If your loved one is eligible for Medicare Part A, they may qualify for comprehensive hospice coverage that includes:

  • 100% of hospice care costs — with no out-of-pocket expenses for services related to the terminal diagnosis.
  • Medications for symptoms and pain management.
  • Medical equipment such as hospital beds, wheelchairs, or oxygen.
  • Nursing visits and access to a full hospice care team.

To receive Medicare hospice benefits, a doctor must certify that the patient has a life expectancy of six months or less, and the patient must agree to focus on comfort care rather than curative treatments.

Medicaid and Private Insurance

  • Medicaid programs in most states, including Virginia, follow Medicare’s guidelines and offer similar full coverage for hospice services.
  • Private insurance providers often include hospice as a covered benefit, but coverage details can vary by plan.

We recommend contacting your insurance provider to confirm exactly what’s covered—or let us help with that.

Financial Help and Support

Not sure what your insurance covers? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

At Riverside Hospice, our team helps:

  • Review your insurance plan
  • Verify benefits upfront
  • Avoid out-of-pocket surprises
  • Submit claims and paperwork on your behalf

Riverside Hospice helps you avoid out-of-pocket costs by verifying coverage before care begins.

This level of support brings families peace of mind so they can focus on what matters most.

Still Have Questions?

We’re here to help.

  • Visit our Getting Started page to explore your options.
  • Or call our Riverside Hospice financial counselors directly for one-on-one assistance and personalized guidance.

You don’t have to face these decisions alone—we’re here to walk this path with you.



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