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The Hospice Intake Process

Understanding what to expect when enrolling in hospice care. Step-by-step guidance for families.

What is Hospice Intake?

Hospice intake is the initial admission process where a patient is formally enrolled in a hospice care program. This typically takes 1-3 hours and involves paperwork, medical assessment, and care planning.

Most intakes happen at the patient's home, but some hospices may conduct them at their facility. The goal is to understand the patient's medical needs, preferences, and family situation.

The Typical Intake Timeline

1

Initial Phone Call (5-10 min)

You call the hospice to start the process. They'll ask basic information: patient's diagnosis, current medications, and general situation. They'll also explain how hospice works and answer initial questions.

Tip: Have the patient's doctor information and recent medical records available.
2

Doctor's Order (1-2 days)

Hospice will contact the patient's physician to request a hospice referral and "do not resuscitate" (DNR) order. The doctor must certify that the patient has a life expectancy of 6 months or less.

Note: If the patient doesn't have a doctor, hospice can help connect them with one or use their medical director.
3

Insurance Verification (1-2 days)

Hospice will verify insurance coverage. Most Medicare and Medicaid plans cover hospice 100%. For uninsured or underinsured patients, hospice can often provide services regardless of ability to pay.

Have ready: Insurance card, Medicare/Medicaid information, and any relevant medical records.
4

In-Home Assessment & Intake (1-3 hours)

A nurse and admissions coordinator visit the patient's home (or facility). They'll:

  • • Conduct medical assessment (vital signs, current symptoms)
  • • Review medications and adjust as needed
  • • Complete extensive paperwork and consent forms
  • • Assess home safety and equipment needs
  • • Discuss goals of care and advance directives
  • • Explain services available (nursing, aides, social work, chaplaincy, etc.)
  • • Answer questions from patient and family
Bring to intake: Photo ID, insurance cards, list of current medications, medical history summary.
5

Care Plan Development (Same day or next day)

The hospice team (nurse, doctor, social worker, chaplain) develops an individualized care plan based on the patient's medical needs, preferences, and family situation. This plan is updated regularly.

You're involved: Families are key partners in developing and adjusting the care plan.

What to Expect During Intake

You'll Need to Discuss

  • •Patient's medical history and current diagnosis
  • •Current symptoms and pain levels
  • •All medications and supplements
  • •Goals for end-of-life care
  • •Family support and living situation
  • •Spiritual or cultural preferences

Questions to Ask

  • •How often will the nurse visit?
  • •What happens after hours or on weekends?
  • •What equipment will be provided?
  • •How are medications managed?
  • •Is there bereavement support for family?
  • •How do I contact the team with questions?

Documents You'll Sign

1. Admission Agreement

Confirms you understand hospice philosophy, costs, and coverage

2. Advance Directives / DNR Order

Documents the patient's wishes about CPR and medical intervention

3. HIPAA Privacy Forms

Authorizes hospice to share medical information with authorized family members

4. Consent Forms

For specific treatments or care approaches

5. Insurance Assignment

Authorizes hospice to bill insurance directly

Take your time: You don't need to rush through paperwork. Ask hospice to explain anything you don't understand. It's okay to ask for time to review documents or to get legal advice.

Cost & Insurance Coverage

Medicare (Age 65+)

Coverage: 100% for eligible beneficiaries

Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers ALL hospice services including nursing, medications, equipment, and therapies. You typically pay nothing out of pocket.

Medicaid

Coverage: Varies by state (usually 100%)

Most states cover hospice through Medicaid. Contact your state's Medicaid office or the hospice directly to confirm coverage.

Private Insurance

Coverage: Usually covers 50-100% with pre-approval

Most private insurers cover hospice. Hospice will verify coverage and may need pre-authorization. You may have copays or deductibles.

Uninsured/Underinsured

Ask about charity care or sliding scale fees

Most hospices provide services regardless of ability to pay. Ask directly about financial assistance programs.

After Intake: What Happens Next

Within 24 hours: The hospice nurse will visit to begin regular care and monitor symptoms.

First week: Additional team members (social worker, chaplain, aide) will visit as part of your care plan.

Ongoing: Regular nurse visits (typically 1-3 times per week for stable patients), 24/7 on-call support, and team reviews of the care plan every few days.

Communication: Hospice will keep you informed of any changes and work with you and the patient to adjust care as needed.

Ready to explore hospice options?