Get Informed:
Financial Considerations for End-of-life Care

Financial issues are among the greatest concerns many people have about end-of-life care. Paying for doctor visits, hospitalization, equipment, medication, long-term care, funerals and more can be very expensive. Caregivers can be particularly burdened, carrying the additional load of providing physical care at the expense of taking care of themselves and their own lives.

When facing these challenges, you and your family should be able to focus on comfort and quality of life without worrying about paying for end-of-life care. 

How is hospice care paid for?

For the majority of Community Hospice patients over 65 and enrolled in Medicare, the cost of their hospice care is fully covered by the Medicare Hospice Benefit, with no out-of-pocket expenses for the patient or family.  Hospice care also is covered through the Medicaid Hospice Benefit and most private insurance plans.

As a nonprofit organization, we are committed to improving the end-of-life experience for everyone in Northeast Florida.  Our care is provided regardless of an individual's ability to pay.  We receive generous contributions from supporters that allow us to care for our community this way.

What services are included?

Under the Medicare Hospice Benefit, the following Community Hospice care is included:

• Physician and nursing care
• Medications for pain relief and symptom control
• Medical equipment and supplies
• Certified nursing assistants to help with personal care
• Physical, occupational and speech therapy, as well as dietary counseling
• Emotional and spiritual support and counsel
• Bereavement support for loved ones

What programs are available for older persons with limited income and assets?

For those with limited income and resources, programs may be available to help with your expenses. Social Security and the Supplemental Security Income programs provide benefits to eligible individuals with limited incomes and assets who are blind, disabled or 65 or older. Veterans' benefits and services may be available through the Department of Veterans Affairs, or VA. Meals on Wheels can also provide in-home meal services.

Health benefit programs are offered through the federal government's Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, while other programs are available that help eligible low-income seniors pay all or part of Medicare premiums. Medicaid may cover some of the medical costs that Medicare does not cover, including, in certain cases, long-term care and/or home health services.

Tax credits are available that can benefit certain taxpayers with limited incomes, and some of the expenses of long-term care are tax deductible as well. Consult a qualified accountant to find out if you are eligible for tax deductions or credits.

Who do I contact for coverage information?

Contact us today for a free information packet fully explaining our services and coverage under the Medicare Hospice Benefit by e-mailing medicare@communityhospice.com or by calling 904.407.6500.  We want to help you understand your options and ease your concerns.

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Call 904.268.5200 for general information or 904.596.6500 for referral and admissions information.
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