Getting Started with Hospice or Palliative Care
Making decisions about your care during a serious illness can be overwhelming, but it’s an important step toward ensuring your needs and wishes are met. Whether you choose to continue curative treatment or transition to comfort-focused care, understanding the process and involving your loved ones can help you feel supported and prepared. Below are some common steps toward getting started with the process:
- Discuss Your Illness and Treatment Goals
- Have a conversation with your doctor about the stage of your illness.
- Decide whether to continue curative treatment or transition to comfort-focused care.
- Involve Family Members
- Share your decision with family members to ensure everyone is aligned.
- Prepare for the next steps together.
- Consultation and Referral
- Request a consultation with your doctor.
- Your doctor will make a referral to a hospice or palliative care agency of your choosing.
- Eligibility Certification
- The selected care agency will require certification from your doctor to confirm eligibility for services.
- Develop a Personalized Care Plan
- Collaborate with the care team to create a plan that addresses your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
- Ensure the plan focuses on achieving the best possible quality of life.
- Begin Care
- Work with the care team to implement the personalized care plan and receive ongoing support during this time.
Paying for Hospice and Palliative Care
Medicare, Medicaid-managed care plans (including HMOs), and most private insurance policies typically cover hospice and palliative care.
If you’re unsure whether your insurance covers these services, our access coordinators are here to assist you. They can help verify your insurance benefits and answer your questions about MJHS Hospice & Palliative Care. For more information or to begin hospice care, call our Access Center at 212-420-3370.
MJHS is Here For You
At MJHS Hospice and Palliative Care, we are committed to providing exceptional care and unwavering support for patients and their families navigating the challenges of a serious illness. Our compassionate team works to ensure your comfort, dignity, and quality of life while offering guidance and resources for your loved ones at every step of the journey.
Whether you have questions about hospice or palliative care, need help understanding your options, or are ready to take the next step, we are here to support you.