For most families, cost is one of the first questions that comes up after a doctor mentions hospice. It is also one of the most misunderstood. Families seeking compassionate hospice care in Maricopa County, AZ, are often relieved to learn that, for those with Medicare, most hospice care costs little to nothing out of pocket. The details still matter, and understanding them clearly helps families make decisions without having to guess at what they can afford.
Is Hospice Care Free with Medicare?
For eligible patients, hospice care under the Medicare Hospice Benefit is covered with minimal to no out-of-pocket cost.
Medicare Part A pays for the full scope of hospice services for patients who qualify. That includes nursing visits, medications related to the terminal diagnosis, medical equipment delivered to the home, personal care from a certified nursing assistant, social work services, chaplain visits, and bereavement counseling for the family after a loved one dies.
There is no deductible for hospice under Medicare. The benefit is designed so that financial barriers do not stand between a patient and the care they need.
What Does Medicare Hospice Actually Cover?
The Medicare Hospice Benefit covers far more than most families expect. Under this benefit, the following are covered for eligible patients:
- Registered nurse visits
- Physician and medical director oversight
- Medications for symptom management and comfort, including pain medications, anti-nausea drugs, and medications for anxiety or agitation
- Medical equipment such as hospital beds, wheelchairs, oxygen supplies, and bedside commodes is delivered wherever the patient lives.
- Certified nursing assistant visits for personal care
- Social work services
- Chaplain and spiritual counseling visits
- Bereavement counseling for family members, continuing for at least 13 months after a loved one dies
- Respite care, which gives family caregivers temporary relief, is covered for up to five days of inpatient care per benefit period.
Our team coordinates all of this. Families do not source medications or equipment on their own.
Are There Any Out-of-Pocket Costs Under Medicare?
For most families, the costs are minimal. There are two small exceptions under the Medicare Hospice Benefit:
A co-pay of up to $5 per prescription may apply for certain outpatient medications related to the terminal diagnosis. A 5% co-insurance may apply for inpatient respite care. For the vast majority of hospice services, including all nursing visits, equipment, counseling, and personal care, there is no patient cost.
Does Medicaid Cover Hospice in Arizona?
Yes. Medicaid covers hospice care in Arizona for eligible patients, with coverage structured similarly to the Medicare Hospice Benefit. If your loved one is enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid, coordination between the two programs typically means costs to the family are minimal or none.
Our team accepts Medicaid and can walk you through coverage during a free evaluation before any care begins.
What If My Loved One Has Private Insurance?
Most private insurance plans cover hospice care. Coverage details vary by plan, but the core services, including nursing visits, medications, and equipment, are typically included.
We accept most private insurance plans. During the free evaluation, our team reviews your loved one’s specific coverage so your family knows exactly what is included before a decision is made. There is no obligation to enroll.
What Does Hospice Cost Without Insurance?
Patients without Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance coverage can still receive hospice care. Costs in that situation are based on the services provided and are discussed directly with families. We encourage anyone in this situation to call us at (602) 610-8864 to talk through options. Our team will be straightforward with you about what care looks like and what it costs.
Does the Cost of Hospice Depend on Where Care Is Provided?
Under the Medicare Hospice Benefit, coverage applies whether the patient is at home, in an assisted living facility, or in a skilled nursing facility in Maricopa County. The benefit does not change based on the care setting for hospice services themselves.
One important note for patients in nursing homes: Medicare pays the hospice portion of care, but the nursing home charges separately for room and board. That room-and-board cost is not covered by the hospice benefit. Our team can explain exactly how this works during the evaluation, so there are no surprises.
What Is the Free Evaluation and Does It Cost Anything?
The evaluation is completely free and carries no obligation. A registered nurse from our team meets with the patient and family, reviews the patient’s medical condition, confirms whether they qualify for hospice, and explains what coverage looks like in plain terms.
Most families tell us they wish they had called sooner. Cost concerns are one of the biggest reasons families wait, and in most cases, those concerns turn out to be far less of an obstacle than they expected.
To schedule a free evaluation in Maricopa County, call us at (602) 610-8864. In most cases, we can arrange a visit the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hospice care covered by Medicare Part A or Part B? The Medicare Hospice Benefit falls under Medicare Part A. It covers nursing visits, medications, equipment, personal care, spiritual support, and bereavement counseling for eligible patients.
Can a family be turned away from hospice because they cannot afford it? Cost should never be a barrier to a hospice evaluation. We encourage families to call regardless of their insurance situation. Our team will review coverage with you and be direct about what options exist.
Does Medicare pay for hospice in an assisted living facility? Yes. The Medicare Hospice Benefit applies in assisted living facilities. Medicare covers the hospice services; room and board at the facility is a separate cost.
What if my loved one lives longer than six months in hospice? The six-month prognosis is a certification requirement, not a time limit. If a patient continues to decline and remains eligible, hospice care continues beyond six months. A physician re-certifies eligibility at regular intervals.
How do I find out what my specific plan covers? The clearest way is to request a free evaluation. Our team reviews your loved one’s coverage before care begins so your family has a complete picture before making any decisions.
Contact Us
Ready to learn more or have questions about our hospice care services? Our caring team at Family Care Hospice is here to help you and your loved ones every step of the way. You can reach us anytime to talk about your needs, schedule an appointment, or get support.
Address: 4700 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282
Phone: (602) 610‑8864 Available 24/7
Email: intake@familycareaz.com
Whether you prefer to call, email, or visit us in person, we’re always ready to listen and assist with compassion and care.
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