How to Choose a Hospice
- Margie Barham, MBA
- Jan 7
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 8
To guide you and your family in finding hospice care, consider what’s important to you and
think about the questions below provided by Medicare.gov. Angelic Health has provided our answers to these questions. Not all hospices are the same. Be sure to check out "hospice compare" to learn how Angelic Health Hospice compares to other hospices in your area.
Overall Program
Does the hospice accept my insurance? What services and treatments will be covered?
Hospice services are covered 100% by Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, and most private insurances. Costs covered include anything related to the patient’s diagnosis and hospice care.
Angelic Hospice provides patients with a registered nurse/ case manager, physician, certified home health aides or care assistants, spiritual care support, social worker, caregiver and family bereavement support, and hospice volunteers, Services may also include physical or occupational therapies. Unlike most other hospice providers, Angelic Hospice provides additional therapies free of charge including music therapy which is particularly important for patients with dementia, and massage to reduce pain and anxiety.
How long has the hospice been serving patients?
Angelic Hospice started in March of 2015 and is certified by Medicare.
Where are hospice services provided?
Angelic Hospice provides care in New Jersey in Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, Burlington, Gloucester, Salem, Camden, Ocean, Monmouth, and Middlesex counties; and in South Carolina serving the greater Myrtle Beach area including Horry, Florence, Georgetown, Marion, Dillon, and Williamsburg counties.
Will the hospice provide a hospital bed and other medical equipment I might need?
Yes, hospice care covers medications, and medical equipment such as a hospital bed, portable commode, wheelchair, oxygen, and a nebulizer.
Availability
Will I have the same hospice nurse? What other members of the hospice team might I see, and how often will I see them?
Upon admission, your care will be assigned to a hospice nurse and care team including hospice physician, home health aide or care assistant, social worker, spiritual care counselor, bereavement counselor. If you wish, you will also be matched with a volunteer.
Every patient receives a customized care schedule based on their individual needs. Generally, your RN/Case Manager will visit twice a week, and aide support five days a week.
How many patients are assigned to each hospice nurse?
Each RN/Case Manager has about 15 patients.
Does the hospice have help after business hours? Nights? Weekends? Holidays?
Angelic Hospice provides on-call nurses 24/7 including weekends and holidays. Assistance is a phone call away.
When I call with an urgent need, how long will it take for someone from the hospice team to respond?
You will be responded to immediately and if necessary, an on-call nurse will be dispatched to you at that time.
Symptom Management
How will the hospice team manage my pain or other symptoms that arise?
Your RN/Case Manager will educate the patient and caregiver regarding pain and symptom management. Angelic Hospice provides a care kit is provided, and an individualized plan is created for every patient and adjusted as the patient’s condition changes.
Can I take my current medications?
Upon admission, your medication will be evaluated and may change pending consultation with your physician. However, most patients will be able to continue to take the medications ordered for you by your attending physician.
What if my symptoms become uncontrollable at home? Can I go to the hospital?
Yes, if your symptoms are uncontrolled at home you can go to the hospital without jeopardizing your hospice benefit.
Communication, Coordination, and Education
How will the hospice team keep me, and my family informed about my condition?
Our care team will meet regularly with you and your family to discuss your care with those you have designed to represent you as Power of Attorney (POA). You can also request meetings at any time as questions arise.
Will my family and I be involved in making care decisions?
Yes, you and your family will absolutely be involved in all decisions made about your care. Your wishes are what drive the care plan.
How do I communicate any questions or concerns I have about my care?
Your RN/Case Manager is your primary contact. You can also contact the hospice administrator at the specific office that serves you if you have unresolved concerns.
Can I still see my regular doctor if I am in hospice care? If yes, how will the hospice team coordinate care with my doctor?
Yes, you can see your regular physician or healthcare provider who will be consulted with regarding your care. If you do not have a regular physician, or prefer our medical director is part of the team and can oversee your care.
How will the hospice team prepare me and my family for what to expect?
With every visit your RN/Case Manager will discuss with you and your family the progression of your diagnosis and changes in your care plan. The other team members such as social workers, aides, spiritual care, therapies and volunteer services are coordinated through the RN/case manager. You are also provided with a Patient Handbook upon admission which is a good reference for your questions and concerns.
To learn more about Angelic Health Hospice Care visit www.angelic.health or call us anytime toll free at 844-948-0645.
How to Choose a Hospice
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