OTHER · Part A
Does Medicare Cover Hospice Care?
What Medicare Covers for Hospice Care
- No 5-day deductible
- Covers in home, nursing facility, or hospice residence
Watch-Outs
- Electing hospice ends curative treatment for the terminal condition
Original Medicare vs Medicare Advantage for Hospice Care
Under Original Medicare + Medigap, you face no networks and minimal out-of-pocket after the Medigap pays. Under a Medicare Advantage plan, you may have lower monthly premiums and extra benefits (dental/vision/hearing) but face networks, prior authorization, and an annual in-network out-of-pocket maximum.
How to Verify Coverage for Your Plan
- Review your plan's Evidence of Coverage (EOC) or the Medicare & You handbook.
- Use the Medicare.gov coverage search to check a specific service.
- Call your plan's member services and request a written coverage determination.
- If denied, file an appeal (redetermination) within 120 days.
Related
Disclaimer: Content is educational. Not medical or insurance advice. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Medicare parts cover hospice care?+
Part A. Exact coverage depends on the service and setting.
Is there a copay or coinsurance?+
Original Medicare Part B generally has a 20% coinsurance after the annual deductible. Medigap plans fill that gap. Medicare Advantage plans use copays and an annual out-of-pocket maximum.
Do I need prior authorization?+
Original Medicare rarely requires prior auth for covered services. Medicare Advantage plans frequently require it for higher-cost services and drugs — check your plan's Evidence of Coverage.
Does Medicare cover hospice care treatment outside the US?+
Generally no. Medigap plans C, D, F, G, M, and N include limited foreign-travel emergency coverage — see our Medigap guide.
How can I appeal a denied claim?+
Five levels of appeal are available starting with redetermination. A licensed agent or a SHIP counselor can help you file.