FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

Who pays for hospice services?
AIM Hospice is a licensed and certified Medicare/Medicaid reimbursed agency.  Virtually all costs to the patient are covered.  If patients are uninsured, a sliding fee schedule is available, based on a patient's income and ability to pay.  Some private insurance will pay 80 to 100% of hospice charges.  There are no charges for volunteer services.  No one is ever denied hospice service due to inability to pay.
 

When is hospice care needed?
There is no definite time because each patient/family situation is different; however, experience has shown that early referrals are most helpful for everyone concerned.  Hospice care may be needed primarily to help the patient and family adjust to the terminal diagnosis, learn how to care for the patient at home, and prepare for future changes.  The hospice team implements a pain control and symptom management system and concentrates on enhancing the time remaining for patient and family.
 

Can I keep my regular doctor?
Yes.  Your doctor will maintain the role of primary physician, approving admission to the program, delivery of services and changes in the plan of care.  Your hospice team members will work closely with your doctor in administering your care.
 

When does hospice care stop?
Hospice care is provided as long as the patient and family need it.  Should the decision be made to resume curative treatment, hospice care may be revoked and the patient immediately resumes his regular Medicare coverage. Our care does not end with the death of the patient.  We provide bereavement care for the family for one year after the death.