Eligibility

Hospice eligibility requirements:

• Numerous hospitalizations within the previous six months
• The patient has a life-limiting illness with a prognosis of six months or fewer if the illness progresses as expected.
• a modification of mental and practical skills
• Compromises concerning eating, bathing, dressing, using the restroom, transferring and walking, and continence
• Progressive loss of weight while accounting for edema weight
• Increasing weakness, exhaustion, and sleepiness
• Declining mental capacity
• Skin deterioration
• The specific deterioration in health
• Multiple infections

Disease-specific hospice eligibility criteria:

The patient’s primary diagnosis is a critical factor in determining eligibility for hospice care, and there are specific criteria to consider based on the diagnosis. These criteria vary depending on the disease, such as renal disease, AIDS, cancer, and dementia. It’s essential to review the applicable requirements for hospice care based on the patient’s diagnosis to ensure they receive the appropriate care and support. The hospice team will work closely with the patient, family, and physician to develop a personalized care plan that addresses their specific needs and preferences. By considering the patient’s diagnosis, hospice care can be tailored to provide the best possible quality of life for patients and their loved ones.

The following is a list of terminal illnesses that may qualify for hospice:

• AIDS
• Cancer
• Dementia
• Liver Condition
• Kidney Disease
• Neurological Disorders
• Stroke aka Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA)
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Cardiopulmonary disease and congestive heart failure
• And more

Financial requirements for hospice include:

• Medicaid hospice eligibility criteria
• Private insurance hospice eligibility criteria
• Medicare hospice eligibility criteria

Note: Co-morbidities, the presence of two or more chronic conditions, are also considered.