How to Choose a Hospice: The Questions That Matter

A few plain questions on the first call tell you most of what you need to know.

To choose a hospice, compare a few Medicare-certified providers in your area and ask each the same questions: how fast can you start, how often will a nurse visit, and who answers at 2 a.m. You're free to pick any provider that serves your county — including one based elsewhere — and to change providers if the fit is wrong. Medicare covers the hospice care itself.

Three questions that reveal the most

On the first phone call, ask: "How quickly can you start?" (a good hospice can often begin within 24–48 hours), "How often will a nurse actually visit, and what changes on weekends?", and "Who do we call at 2 a.m., and what actually happens when we do?" The answers tell you more than any brochure.

A few more worth asking

Do you offer continuous care at home when symptoms get hard? Where is your inpatient unit if we need it? Can our own doctor stay involved? Are you non-profit or for-profit? Both can be excellent, but it's fair to ask.

Your rights

You can choose any Medicare-certified hospice that serves your area, not just the one a hospital suggests — and you can change hospices if it isn't working. Many families don't realize they have this choice. The hard part is simply knowing who serves your county.

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Common questions

Does Medicare let me pick any hospice?

Yes — you may choose any Medicare-certified hospice that serves your area, and you can switch providers if needed.

How fast can hospice start?

Often within 24–48 hours of the referral. If care is needed now, call two or three providers.