Note: Medicate Certified Hospices operate under a set of regulations
set by Medicare. Medicare Part A, Medicaid, and many private insurances cover the cost of care. Hospice receives a “per diem” rate
for the level of care provided: the hospice covers all care, medications, and equipment needed to keep a patient comfortable and supported physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Care is provided by a team
which includes a medical provider, registered nurses, social workers,
nursing assistants, spiritual care practitioners. Hospice focuses on comfort and care when the goal is no longer further efforts to cure a serious illness. The patient and family are part of the team and the
goals are determined by the patient and family.
In Alaska, care is primarily provided in the patient’s home setting-hospice brings services to the patient. Hospice also
offers Respite Care (usually in a facility) and can may provide intensive symptom management in a hospital setting if needed.
All Medicare Certified Hospices provide a year of BEREAVEMENT
SUPPORT (at no cost) after the death of a hospice patient. They
also provide some level of bereavement and grief support for the community. Contact a local hospice to find out more about their individual community grief support programs