Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Hospice Care

What exactly is hospice care?

Hospice is specialized medical care for people with a life-limiting illness, typically those with a prognosis of six months or less. Rather than trying to cure the illness, hospice focuses on providing comfort, managing symptoms, and supporting quality of life. It's about living as fully and comfortably as possible for whatever time remains, with expert medical support and compassionate care for both the patient and their family.

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Does choosing hospice mean giving up hope?

Not at all. Hospice is about redefining hope — shifting from hope for a cure to hope for comfort, meaningful time with loved ones, dignity, and peace. Many families tell us that hospice allowed them to focus on what truly mattered in their loved one's final chapter, free from the burden of painful treatments that were no longer helping.

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When is the right time to start hospice?

Studies show that patients who start hospice earlier experience better symptom control, more time at home, and improved quality of life. The right time is when curative treatments are no longer working or when the burdens of treatment outweigh the benefits. If you're asking the question, it's worth having a conversation with us. There's no obligation, and we can help you understand whether hospice is appropriate.

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Can someone get better and leave hospice?

Yes. If a patient's condition improves or stabilizes, they can discontinue hospice services at any time. Some patients do live longer than six months — if your physician continues to certify that your illness is life-limiting, you can remain in hospice care. Hospice is not about a specific timeline; it's about providing the right care when you need it.

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Is hospice only for cancer patients?

No. Hospice serves patients with any life-limiting illness, including:

• Heart disease and congestive heart failure

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Dementia and Alzheimer's disease

• Kidney disease and renal failure

• Liver disease

• ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)

• Parkinson's disease

• Stroke

• Multiple organ failure

• Any terminal condition with a six-month or less prognosis

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Getting Started with Hospice

How do we start hospice services?

Starting hospice is simple:

1. Contact us by phone or through our website

2. We'll schedule a free consultation at your home or facility (usually within 24 hours)

3. Our team will complete an assessment of medical needs and eligibility

4. If appropriate, we can admit you the same day or whenever you're ready

5. Your care plan begins immediately with nursing visits, equipment delivery, and support

You can also ask your doctor to refer you, or we can coordinate with your physician directly.

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Do we need a doctor's referral?

While a physician must certify that you have a life-limiting illness, you don't need a formal referral to contact us. You can reach out directly, and we'll work with your doctor to obtain the necessary certification. We handle all the paperwork and coordination.

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How quickly can services start?

We can often begin services within hours of your call if needed. For urgent situations, we provide same-day admissions. Our team works around the clock to ensure that patients receive care when they need it most, not when it's convenient for us.

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What happens during the first visit?

A hospice nurse will meet with you and your family to:

• Review your medical history and current symptoms

• Assess your comfort and care needs

• Explain hospice services in detail

• Create a personalized care plan

• Answer all your questions

• Deliver any immediately needed equipment or medications

• Set up your schedule of visits

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This visit typically takes 1-2 hours, and we encourage family members to participate.

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Coverage and Costs

Does Medicare cover hospice?

Yes. The Medicare Hospice Benefit covers 100% of hospice services related to your terminal diagnosis, including:

• All nursing care and physician services

• Medications for pain and symptom management

• Medical equipment (hospital bed, wheelchair, oxygen, etc.)

• Medical supplies

• Home health aide services

• Social work and counseling

• Spiritual care

• Therapies (physical, occupational, speech)

• Dietary counseling

• Bereavement support for family (up to 13 months)

• Short-term respite care

• Crisis care and inpatient care when needed

There are no deductibles, copays, or out-of-pocket costs for hospice-related services under Medicare.

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What about veterans' benefits?

We are weeks away from contracting with Veterans Association. Veterans are eligible for hospice care through VA benefits or Medicare — whichever provides the most comprehensive coverage. As specialists in veteran care, we:

• Navigate VA benefits on your behalf

• Coordinate with VA facilities and providers

• Maximize your benefits

• Provide veteran-specific support services

• Ensure you receive all honors and recognition you've earned

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Many veterans qualify for both VA benefits and Medicare, and we'll help you understand which is best for your situation.

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Is hospice covered by Medicaid?

Yes. Medicaid covers hospice services in California. We accept Medi-Cal and work directly with the program to ensure you receive full benefits without any financial burden. We cannot accept IEHP Medicaid

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What if we have private insurance?

Most private insurance plans cover hospice care. Our business office will verify your coverage and work directly with your insurance company to maximize your benefits. We'll explain exactly what's covered before you start services.

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What if we can't afford hospice?

No one is ever turned away from American Veterans Hospice due to inability to pay. We serve all patients regardless of financial circumstances. If you don't have insurance or your benefits are limited, we'll work with you to find resources and ensure you receive the care you need.

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Are there any hidden costs?

No. We're transparent about costs from the beginning. Under Medicare and most insurance plans, there are no out-of-pocket expenses for hospice-related care. Any potential costs (which are rare) would be discussed with you in advance.

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Where Care is Provided

Can hospice care be provided at home?

Yes — and that's the most common setting. Most people prefer to spend their final days at home, surrounded by family and familiar comforts. Our team comes to you, providing all necessary care, equipment, and support in your own home.

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What if we live in an assisted living facility or nursing home?

We provide hospice care wherever you call home, including:

• Assisted living facilities

• Residential care homes

• Skilled nursing facilities

• Board and care homes

We coordinate with facility staff to ensure seamless, comprehensive care. You don't have to move or change facilities to receive hospice.

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Does someone need to be with the patient at all times?

Not necessarily. While many families choose to be present, it's not required. Our team provides professional care and visits regularly. We also offer home health aide services to help with daily care, and can arrange for continuous care during crisis periods if needed. 

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What if symptoms become too difficult to manage at home?

We can arrange for a nurse to provide continuous care for 4 hour shifts until symptoms are under control, we can arrange short-term respite care in skilled nursing facility for 5 days if beds are available. Our social workers work with families to explore resources for long term/ end of life planning.

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Do you serve our area?

American Veterans Hospice serves:

• Long Beach and surrounding communities

• Los Angeles County

• Orange County

• Riverside County

• San Bernardino County

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If you're unsure whether we serve your specific location, please call us — we'll let you know immediately and provide referrals if we're unable to reach your area.

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Daily Care and Services

Who will be taking care of my loved one?

Hospice covers the medical aspect but not 24/7 personal care

You'll have an entire team:

Personal 24/7 care and assisting with daily living activities is generally not covered by insurance. Our team will help explore resources.

Hospice covers the medical aspect but not 24/7 personal care

You'll have an entire team:

• Primary nurse who coordinates all care and visits regularly

• Hospice physician who oversees medical care

• Home health aides who assist with bathing, dressing, and personal care

• Social worker who provides counseling and practical support

• Chaplain who offers spiritual care (optional)

• Volunteers who provide companionship and respite

• On-call nurses available 24/7 for urgent needs

You'll get to know your team members, and they'll become familiar with your loved one's unique needs and preferences.

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How often will a nurse visit?

Typically, a registered nurse visits at least twice per week, with additional visits based on your needs. Licensed vocational nurses may visit on other days. Home health aides usually visit 2-5 times per week for personal care. During periods of increased symptoms or crisis, visits increase — including continuous 24-hour care if needed.

What if we need help at 2 AM?

Call us. We have nurses available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. If you call with an urgent concern, we can dispatch a nurse to your home right away. You're never alone with hospice care.

Can we still see our own doctor?

Yes. Your personal physician can remain involved in your care. Many doctors continue to visit their hospice patients and work collaboratively with our hospice physician. You don't have to give up your relationship with your doctor.

Will my loved one be in pain?

Our primary goal is comfort. We specialize in pain and symptom management, and the vast majority of patients experience significant relief. While we can't promise complete elimination of all discomfort, we can promise that we'll work persistently to manage pain to your loved one's comfort level using medications, therapies, and other comfort measures.

What about medications?

All medications related to your terminal diagnosis are provided by hospice at no cost — this includes pain medications, anti-nausea medications, and other comfort drugs. We deliver them directly to your home. You may continue taking medications unrelated to your hospice diagnosis, but those would be covered by your regular insurance.

Will we have the same nurse every time?

We try to provide consistency with a primary nurse who coordinates your care. However, you may see different team members depending on scheduling, and you'll always have an on-call nurse available outside regular hours. All our team members have access to your care plan and medical information.

Can family members help with care?

Absolutely. Many families want to participate in caring for their loved one, and we encourage this. We'll teach you how to:

• Provide comfort measures

• Help with position changes

• Administer medications (if appropriate)

• Recognize changes in condition

• Use medical equipment

You provide as much or as little hands-on care as you're comfortable with — our team handles the rest.

Veteran-Specific Questions

What makes your hospice different for veterans?

We specialize in veteran care, which means:

• Team members who understand military culture and service-related health issues

• Veteran-to-veteran volunteer visits

• Recognition ceremonies and military honors

• Expertise in navigating VA benefits

• Understanding of service-related trauma, PTSD, and Agent Orange exposure

• Special attention to the unique end-of-life needs of those who served

Can veterans get special recognition?

Yes. We provide:

• Veteran recognition ceremonies at bedside

• American flag presentation

• Certificate of appreciation

• Connection to veteran service organizations

• Military honors coordination for funeral services

• Acknowledgment of sacrifice and service

What if my veteran has PTSD or service-related trauma?

Our team is trained to recognize and respond to PTSD, combat trauma, and military sexual trauma. We provide trauma-informed care and can arrange for specialized counseling. Many of our staff are veterans themselves who can relate to these experiences.

Are there other veterans receiving care?

Yes. We serve many veterans and can arrange for veteran-to-veteran visits if desired. Many of our patients find comfort in connecting with others who share the military experience.

Family and Caregiver Support

How can we prepare our children or grandchildren?

Our social workers and chaplains specialize in helping families talk to children about serious illness and death. We can:

• Provide age-appropriate guidance

• Meet with children directly

• Recommend books and resources

• Help create meaningful memories

• Support children through anticipatory grief

What is "respite care"?

Respite care gives family caregivers a break. Medicare covers up to five consecutive days of inpatient care so that family members can rest, travel, or simply recharge. Your loved one receives 24-hour care in a contracted facility, and then returns home. This benefit can be used multiple times during hospice care.

Do you provide emotional support for family members?

Yes. Our social workers provide counseling and emotional support throughout your loved one's illness. We help with:

• Coping with anticipatory grief

• Family communication and conflict

• Difficult decisions

• Caregiver stress and burnout

• Planning for the future

What happens after our loved one passes?

Our bereavement team continues supporting your family for 13 months after death. We provide:

• Grief counseling (individual and group)

• Telephone check-ins

• Educational materials about grief

• Memorial services

• Referrals to community resources

• Support groups

You're not alone in your grief — we walk alongside you.

Can we take a family vacation?

Yes. With advance planning, we can arrange for hospice services to continue while you travel (if traveling within our service area), or we can arrange respite care for your loved one while you're away. Let us know your plans, and we'll work with you.

Medical Questions

Will hospice help with wounds or bedsores?

Yes. Wound care is a core hospice service. Our nurses specialize in preventing and treating pressure ulcers, managing existing wounds, and ensuring skin integrity and comfort.

What about oxygen or breathing treatments?

All equipment related to your hospice diagnosis is provided, including:

• Oxygen concentrators and tanks

• Nebulizers and breathing treatments

• Hospital beds

• Wheelchairs and walkers

• Bedside commodes

• Shower chairs

• Lift chairs (when medically necessary)

• Any other durable medical equipment needed for comfort

Can physical therapy continue?

Yes, if it's focused on comfort and function rather than curative treatment. Our team includes physical, occupational, and speech therapists who can help with:

• Mobility and safety

• Pain reduction through movement

• Energy conservation

• Swallowing difficulties

• Breathing techniques

What if there's a medical emergency?

Call our 24/7 line first. We can often manage emergencies at home and avoid hospitalization, which is usually more comfortable for the patient. However, if hospital care is necessary, we'll coordinate with the hospital and continue our support there. You always have the option to call 911 if needed.

Will hospice stop food and water?

Absolutely not. Patients can eat and drink whatever appeals to them, whenever they want. As the body naturally shuts down, appetite and thirst typically decrease — this is normal and not painful. We never withhold food or fluids; we follow the patient's wishes and comfort level. We provide guidance on modified diets and hydration strategies that maximize comfort.

What about antibiotics or other treatments?

Hospice doesn't prohibit treatments — it focuses on comfort-oriented care. If a treatment provides comfort (for example, antibiotics for a painful infection), we provide it. If a treatment is burdensome and no longer helping, we can discontinue it. The focus is always on quality of life and the patient's goals.

End-of-Life Questions

How will we know when death is near?

Our nurses will educate you about the signs of approaching death, which typically include:

• Decreased appetite and fluid intake

• Increased sleeping

• Confusion or restlessness

• Changes in breathing patterns

• Cool or mottled skin

• Decreased urination

We'll prepare you for what to expect and increase our visits during this time.

Will someone be with us when our loved one dies?

If you'd like us there, we can arrange for a nurse to be present. Many families choose to be alone with their loved one during the final moments, with phone support from our team. There's no right or wrong way — we support whatever feels right for your family.

What do we do when our loved one passes away?

Call our 24/7 line immediately. A nurse will come to your home to:

• Pronounce the death

• Provide emotional support

• Contact the funeral home of your choice

• Help with next steps

• Stay as long as you need

There's no rush. You can spend as much time with your loved one as you need before the funeral home arrives.

Do we have to call 911?

No, and we advise against it. Calling 911 can result in unwanted resuscitation attempts and hospital transport. Instead, call our hospice line — we'll guide you through everything. We provide you with documentation showing you're enrolled in hospice, which emergency responders honor.

Will our loved one be alone or afraid?

Many patients report feeling peaceful in their final days. We provide medications to ease anxiety and restlessness. Our team ensures comfort at every stage. Being with your loved one, talking to them, holding their hand, and letting them know they're safe can provide tremendous comfort — even if they seem unresponsive, they can often still hear you.

Is it okay to say goodbye?

Yes. In fact, we encourage it. Many people wait for permission to let go, or for a private moment to pass. Telling your loved one it's okay to go, that you'll be alright, and expressing your love can bring peace to both of you.

Practical Concerns

What legal documents do we need?

Important documents include:

• Advance Healthcare Directive (living will and healthcare power of attorney)

• POLST form (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment)

• Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order

• Will or trust

• Financial power of attorney

Our social workers can help you understand these documents and connect you with resources to complete them. We can also provide POLST and DNR forms.

Should we have a DNR?

A Do Not Resuscitate order means that if your heart stops or you stop breathing, no CPR or other resuscitation efforts will be made. Most hospice patients choose DNR because resuscitation is rarely successful in people with terminal illness and can cause suffering. However, this is always your choice. We'll help you understand the implications and make an informed decision.

How do we choose a funeral home?

You can choose any funeral home you prefer. Our social workers can provide a list of local funeral homes and help you understand your options. Many families find it comforting to make these arrangements in advance, and we can facilitate those discussions.

What if family members disagree about care?

This is common, and our social workers specialize in family mediation. We can:

• Facilitate family meetings

• Help everyone understand the medical situation

• Clarify the patient's wishes

• Find common ground

• Provide counseling for family conflict

Can we change our minds about hospice?

Yes, at any time. You can:

• Leave hospice and return to curative treatment

• Switch to a different hospice provider

• Return to hospice later if needed

There's no penalty for leaving, and your Medicare benefits continue. This is your choice.

Questions About Quality and Oversight

How do we know we're getting good care?

American Veterans Hospice is:

• Medicare certified and regularly surveyed for quality

• Licensed by the California Department of Public Health

• Accredited [add any accreditations you have]

• Committed to transparency — we welcome questions and feedback

We track quality metrics, patient satisfaction, and outcomes. You can also check our ratings on Medicare's Hospice Compare website.

What if we're not satisfied with our care?

Please tell us immediately. We want to address any concerns right away. You can:

• Speak with your primary nurse or team member

• Contact our director of nursing

• Request a care conference

• File a formal complaint or grievance

We take all concerns seriously and will work to resolve issues promptly.

Can we request different staff members?

Yes. If you're not comfortable with a particular team member, we can make adjustments. Your comfort and trust are essential to good care.

How can we provide feedback?

We welcome feedback through:

• Direct conversation with your team

• Patient satisfaction surveys

• Online reviews

• Written correspondence

Your insights help us improve care for all families.

Spiritual and Cultural Questions

Do we have to be religious to receive spiritual care?

Not at all. Our chaplains serve people of all faiths and belief systems, including those who don't identify as religious. Spiritual care is about finding meaning, peace, and connection — whatever that looks like for you.

Can our own clergy visit?

Yes, and we encourage it. Your personal spiritual advisors are always welcome and can work alongside our chaplain. We can also help connect you with clergy if you don't have an existing relationship.

Do you respect cultural traditions?

Absolutely. We serve diverse communities and honor all cultural traditions around dying, death, and mourning. Let us know what's important to you, and we'll incorporate those practices into your care plan.

What if we want alternative or complementary therapies?

We support comfort-oriented complementary therapies such as:

• Music therapy

• Aromatherapy

• Massage and touch therapy

• Guided imagery

• Meditation and relaxation

• Pet therapy

Let your team know what brings you comfort, and we'll work to incorporate it.

COVID-19 and Safety Questions

What safety precautions do you take?

We follow CDC and state guidelines for infection control:

• Staff screening before entering homes

• Appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Hand hygiene protocols

• Regular testing when indicated

• Vaccination requirements for staff

Your safety and our staff's safety are priorities.

Can family members visit during COVID or flu season?

Family presence is essential to hospice care. We work with you to balance safety with the need for connection. Even during outbreaks, we find ways to support family involvement while minimizing risk.