Understanding how hospice care is covered can feel overwhelming, especially during an already difficult time. The good news is that most patients qualify for hospice coverage through Medicare, AHCCCS (Arizona Medicaid), or private insurance at little to no cost.
At Polaris Hospice, we help families throughout Arizona's East and West Valley communities navigate coverage options so they can focus on what matters most, time with their loved ones.
Yes. Original Medicare (Part A) covers hospice care services when certain conditions are met. The Medicare Hospice Benefit covers most hospice-related costs, meaning patients and families typically pay little to nothing out of pocket for hospice care.
To receive the Medicare Hospice Benefit, a patient must meet the following criteria:
Medicare covers hospice services including nursing care, medications for symptom management, medical equipment, counseling, and short-term respite care. However, Medicare does not pay for room and board at an assisted living facility or nursing home.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, your hospice benefits are still covered under Original Medicare Part A. Your Medicare Advantage plan continues to cover services unrelated to your terminal diagnosis.
Yes. AHCCCS, Arizona's Medicaid program, provides hospice coverage for eligible patients. If you or your loved one is enrolled in AHCCCS, hospice care services are covered as part of your benefits.
AHCCCS hospice coverage includes the same core services as Medicare: skilled nursing, physician oversight, medications related to the terminal illness, medical supplies, counseling, and bereavement support for family members.
For patients who are dually eligible for both Medicare and AHCCCS, Medicare serves as the primary payer for hospice services. AHCCCS may cover additional costs that Medicare does not, such as room and board in a nursing facility.
Our team at Polaris Hospice can help determine your AHCCCS eligibility and coordinate coverage so you can focus on your family.
Most private health insurance plans include a hospice care benefit. Coverage details vary by carrier and policy, but many plans cover hospice services similar to what Medicare provides. If you have private insurance, contact your insurance company or ask our team to help verify your hospice benefits.
When covered by private insurance, hospice services typically include:
Some private insurance plans may require you to use in-network hospice providers or may have an inpatient deductible. We recommend reviewing your plan's specific details or contacting Polaris Hospice, we can help verify your coverage and explain any out-of-pocket costs before care begins.
If your insurance plan does not cover hospice or you are uninsured, don't let that stop you from reaching out. We work with every family to find a path to care.
Regardless of your coverage source, hospice benefits generally include these core services
Comprehensive medical oversight from a dedicated hospice care team focused on comfort and quality of life.
Essential medications, supplies, and equipment related to the terminal diagnosis are provided at no additional cost.
Emotional, spiritual, and practical support for patients and their families throughout the care journey.
If you don't currently have Medicare, AHCCCS, or private insurance, you may still be able to receive hospice care. Many patients are surprised to learn they qualify for coverage they didn't know about, and our team can help explore all available options.
At Polaris Hospice, we believe that financial concerns should never prevent someone from receiving compassionate end-of-life care. We work with families to understand the services that would be provided and can help set up payment arrangements when needed.
If you're unsure about your coverage or ability to pay, please reach out to us. We'll walk you through your options honestly and help find a solution that works for your family.
Polaris Hospice, LLC
Glendale, Arizona
(602) 710-7589
polarish2021@gmail.com
POLARIS
