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Commonly Asked Questions

What is hospice care?

Hospice care is compassionate care that addresses all the needs of a person who is terminally ill including emotional, psychological, social and spiritual needs. Hospice focuses on caring and improving the quality of life, not curing. In most cases care is provided in the patient's home. In addition, hospice addresses the needs of family and friends to the greatest extent possible so that all concerned can maintain dignity and quality of life. An important part of hospice care is that patients and families are involved in deciding what care is right for them.

What is palliative care?

Palliative (comfort) care provides assistance and support for the practical, emotional, and spiritual issues those living with illness often face.

When is the right time to ask about hospice care?

Now is the best time to learn more about hospice and ask questions about what to expect from hospice services. Although end-of-life care may be difficult to discuss, it is best for family members to share their wishes long before it becomes a concern.  This can greatly reduce stress when the time for hospice is needed. By having these discussions in advance, patients are not forced into uncomfortable situations.  Instead, patients can make an educated decision that includes the advice and input of family members and loved ones.

How does hospice work?

Typically, a family member serves as the primary caregiver and, when appropriate, helps make decisions for the terminally ill individual. Members of the hospice staff make regular visits to assess the patient and provide additional care or other services. Hospice staff is on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Hospice Can Be Provided Wherever You Live

• Your private home or residence
• N ursing home
• Group or shelter care home

How is hospice care paid for?

• Medicare and private insurance plans
• No co-payments or deductibles

If you are not sure you have insurance coverage, please call us to see what arrangements we can make for hospice care.

First, you should speak with your physician about Hospice and your diagnosis. If you both feel that Hospice is the right thing for your situation, simply contact us or ask your physician to talk to us for you. We are available for consultation if you are not sure of your eligibility or if you have any questions.

What questions do I need to ask?

The following are common questions for patients and loved ones facing life-threatening illnesses.

• What services are provided?
• How soon can you arrange to evaluate the patient?
• What kind of support is available to the family/caregiver?
• What roles do the attending physician and hospice play?
• Can hospice be brought into a nursing home or long-term care facility?
• How are services provided after hours?
• How and where does hospice provide short-term inpatient care?
• How often will you visit the patient?
• What medications do you cover?
• Does your hospice provide a variety of supplies, such as nutritional supplements and incontinence products?
• Is there a co-pay or deductible for any of your services?
• Does your staff have extensive hospice experience?
• How long is your bereavement follow up service?

Hospice of New Mexico
4015 Carlisle NE, Suite E
Albuquerque , NM 87107
Phone: (505) 872-2300
Toll Free: (877) 252-2300