Paying for Hospice Services with Medicare

With a medical degree from the University of Minnesota, Dr. Khalid Mahmoud Shirif is experienced in providing hospice and palliative care services. Dr. Khalid Shirif is the owner and medical director of two Mesa, Arizona hospice centers that provide end-of-life care.

Hospice care expenses can be covered by Medicare in certain circumstances. The patient must qualify for Medicare Part A, which covers many types of long-term care. The patient must receive a terminal diagnosis from their physician that estimates less than six months to live. Furthermore, the patient must only accept palliative medical treatment and forgo curative care.

If the previous conditions are met, the patient or his/her legal guardian must sign a legal document attesting the desire to end curative treatment. If the patient receives care in a Medicare-approved facility, they will not be responsible for any costs. Housing costs are not covered for patients who receive hospice care where they normally reside.