8 Common Questions About Hospice Answered

Many people come to hospice later than they wish they had, not because it wasn’t right for them, but because they didn’t fully understand what hospice is or how it works. Misconceptions, fear, and uncertainty often delay conversations that could bring comfort, clarity, and support sooner.

At Gilchrist, we hear the same questions again and again from patients and families who are trying to make sense of their options during an already overwhelming time. Below are some of the most common and most important questions about hospice care, answered.

1. Does hospice mean giving up hope?

No. Choosing hospice means shifting the focus of care from curing illness to prioritizing comfort, dignity, and quality of life. Hospice is about living as fully as possible, for as long as possible.

In fact, studies have shown that people with life-limiting illnesses who enroll in hospice care live an average of nearly a month longer than those who do not. This is often because hospice provides coordinated, whole-person care and eliminates aggressive treatments that can place additional stress on the body. Hospice is not about giving up. It’s about making the most of the time that remains and creating space for meaningful moments with the people you love.

2. How will I pay for hospice care?

Hospice is a Medicare entitlement benefit. Gilchrist’s hospice services are covered at no cost by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. Our team will help determine coverage and guide you through the process.

Covered hospice services include:

• In-home visits by the full interdisciplinary care team
• Medications for pain and symptom management related to the life-limiting illness
• Medical equipment and supplies
• Inpatient care, when needed
• Respite care for caregivers
• Grief and bereavement support for families

All services must be related to the hospice diagnosis to be covered. Gilchrist manages all billing for hospice-related care, services, and supplies.

Surprise Billing Protection: Patients are also protected under federal laws against surprise medical bills in certain situations, including inpatient care and consultations.

3. Is hospice only for people with cancer?

No. Hospice care is available to anyone with a life-limiting illness who meets eligibility criteria. Hospice focuses on the person—not the diagnosis. Gilchrist cares for individuals with many diagnoses, including:

• Heart and lung disease
• Kidney disease
• ALS and other neurological conditions
• Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias
• AIDS
• Cancer and other serious illnesses

4. Where does hospice care take place?

Hospice care is provided wherever you live. That may include:

• Your home
• A nursing home or senior living community
• An assisted living or retirement community

If more intensive symptom management is needed, patients may be admitted to one of Gilchrist’s home-like care centers, including locations in Towson, Howard County, and Baltimore.

5. When should I talk with my doctor or loved one about hospice?

Early and more than once. Having open conversations before a crisis allows time to explore care options, express wishes, and make informed decisions together. Talking about hospice does not mean care is ending. It means planning thoughtfully and ensuring care aligns with what matters most to you.

6. My loved one is on hospice, and I’m struggling now. Is support available before a death occurs?

Yes. Hospice supports families as well as patients. Gilchrist’s specially trained grief counselors can provide emotional support before a loved one’s death and continue to offer care afterward, if needed. Grief does not begin at loss, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

7. How will I pay for Gilchrist’s grief services?

Grief support is an essential part of hospice care—not an add-on. For families served by Gilchrist Hospice Care, time-limited one-on-one grief counseling is provided at no charge.

8. What is pediatric hospice?

Pediatric hospice is specialized care for children with life-limiting diagnoses. It focuses on comfort, quality of life, and meaningful time with family while also supporting parents, siblings, and caregivers.

Children receiving hospice care may participate in concurrent care, which allows them to continue certain curative treatments or therapies such as chemotherapy, artificial nutrition, or ventilator support while also receiving the comfort care and coordination that hospice provides.

Want to Learn More?

To explore additional frequently asked questions about hospice, palliative care, geriatric care, and other Gilchrist services, visit our FAQ page:
https://gilchristcares.org/about/faq/

If you or someone you love has questions about hospice, we’re here to help whenever you’re ready to talk.