Medicare Coverage for Home Health & Hospice: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Medicare cover home health and hospice care?
Yes! Medicare covers 100% of hospice care costs and qualifying home health services, ensuring patients receive essential medical care at home without financial burden.
Why does Medicare cover home health and hospice expenses?
Medicare recognizes that receiving care at home is often the best and most cost-effective option for many patients. Home health care helps individuals recover, regain independence, and manage chronic conditions in a familiar environment, while hospice care provides comfort and dignity at the end of life. By covering these services, Medicare helps prevent unnecessary hospital stays and improves overall patient well-being.
Who qualifies for Medicare-covered home health care?
To qualify, a patient must:
- Be under the care of a doctor who certifies the need for home health services.
- Require intermittent skilled nursing care, physical therapy, speech therapy, or occupational therapy.
- Be homebound, meaning leaving home requires significant effort or assistance.
- Receive care from a Medicare-certified home health agency (like 24/7 Care At Home).
What home health services does Medicare cover?
Medicare covers:
- Skilled nursing care (wound care, IV therapy, medication management).
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy for rehabilitation.
- Medical social services to support emotional and financial needs.
- Home health aide services (if receiving skilled care).
Who qualifies for Medicare-covered hospice care?
A patient qualifies if:
- A doctor certifies a terminal illness with a life expectancy of six months or less.
- They choose comfort-focused care rather than curative treatment.
- They receive care from a Medicare-certified hospice provider (like 24/7 Care At Home).
What hospice services does Medicare cover?
Medicare fully covers:
- Medical care from doctors, nurses, and hospice aides.
- Pain management & symptom relief (including medications).
- Medical equipment & supplies (hospital beds, wheelchairs, oxygen).
- Emotional and spiritual support for patients and families.
- Short-term inpatient care and respite care(temporary relief for family caregivers).
Will I have to pay anything for home health or hospice care?
- Hospice care: Medicare covers 100% of hospice services, so patients and families pay nothing for covered care.
- Home health care: Medicare covers the full cost of services, but patients may pay 20% for durable medical equipment (if needed).
How do I start Medicare-covered home health or hospice care?
Call 24/7 Care At Home today to discuss your eligibility and care options. Our team will work with your doctor to ensure you receive the Medicare-covered services you need.
Hospice Care: (800) 509-6345
Home Health Services: (800) 651-5371