Paying for Hospice Services

Initially, Hospice assists families in determining whether or not the patient is eligible for any medical or insurance coverage of which they are not aware. Hospice coverage is widely available and is covered by most private insurance plans, Medicare, and Medicaid. If a person in need does not have this kind of coverage, Hospice of North Central Ohio will help. Using money raised from the community or from memorial and foundation grants, Hospice can provide funds for those who do not have the ability to pay.

Please note that when a patient elects Hospice care under Medicare coverage, he or she switches from standard Medicare coverage to the Medicare Hospice Benefit, as a patient with an incurable illness is not allowed to be covered by both plans at the same time. However, a patient may revoke the Hospice benefit at any time and return to standard Medicare. Supplies and medications needed to manage a terminal illness are provided by the Medicare/Medicaid Hospice benefit. The Medicare Hospice Benefit is divided into two 90 day periods of coverage followed by an unlimited number of 60 day periods.

Hospice of North Central Ohio also has a Supplemental Paid Caregiver Fund to provide financial assistance to qualified and low income families. These funds can be used to hire additional caregivers who can either assist in the care of a loved one or help with other tasks requiring payment. Families must qualify for the Supplemental Pain Caregiver Fund program. At times, this fund may be used for other family needs. Please contact us for more information.