Eligibility

Learn more about Hospice eligibility, benefit and the focus of Hospice care.

Am I eligible for Hospice?

  • You are eligible for Hospice if you have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and your doctor believes you are in the last stages of life, generally measured in six months or less rather than years.*
  • You agree that your care will now focus on improving quality of life, relief of pain and other symptoms, rather than a cure or life-prolonging treatments.
  • You agree to receive care in your place of residence, where hands-on care is provided by caregivers made up of family members, friends or hired aides. Your medical care will be managed by Kaiser Permanente’s Hospice care team

* See your Evidence of Coverage for details.

How do I signup for Hospice?

  • Start by talking with your physician and family to decide if Hospice is the right choice for you. If you are eligible and decide Hospice care is appropriate, your doctor will send a referral for you to the Hospice Services department, which will start an evaluation process.
  • If you have more questions about Kaiser Permanente’s hospice benefit, please call Member Services at 800-464-4000.

What is needed for admission to Hospice?

  • You live in a Kaiser Permanente’s service area
  • You receive care ordered, arranged, or provided by a Kaiser Permanente doctor
  • Services required to treat your terminal condition can be safely and effectively provided in your place of residence as determined by a Kaiser Permanente Hospice care team member (IMPORTANT: You do NOT need to be homebound to qualify for Hospice services)
  • You have been diagnosed with a terminal illness, with a life expectancy of 6 months or less
  • You are not receiving curative medical treatments, except for comfort measures
  • You sign a statement electing hospice care instead of curative care