MedicareFAQ
Coverage Q&A

Does Medicare Cover Hospice and Palliative Care?

Medicare coverage for hospice care is available if you qualify per Medicare guidelines and use a Medicare-approved hospice provider. However, not all circumstances warrant Medicare coverage for hospic

Updated May 8, 20239 min read
David Haass

Written By

David Haass

Author

Ashlee Zareczny

Reviewed By

Ashlee Zareczny

Reviewer

Quick Answer

Original Medicare: Some PlansMedicare Advantage: Some PlansMedigap: Not Covered

Medicare coverage for hospice care is available if you qualify per Medicare guidelines and use a Medicare-approved hospice provider. However, not all circumstances warrant Medicare coverage for hospice. So, you’ll need to thoroughly understand the guidelines to ensure your needs are covered.

Coverage Comparison by Plan Type

Plan TypeCoverageNotes
Original MedicareSome PlansLimited coverage under specific conditions
Medicare AdvantageSome PlansCoverage varies by plan and ZIP code
MedigapNot CoveredOnly supplements Original Medicare benefits
Medicare Part DMay Cover Related RxMay cover related prescriptions

Understanding Your Coverage Options

Original Medicare (Part a & B)

Covered

Original Medicare (Part A & B) provides coverage for this service when medically necessary. Standard cost-sharing (deductibles and coinsurance) may apply.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Varies

Medigap plans do not have networks. Therefore, if you have a Medicare Supplement plan, you can enjoy supplemental coverage regardless of the network for your skilled nursing facility.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap)

Covered

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) provides coverage for this service when medically necessary. Standard cost-sharing (deductibles and coinsurance) may apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

DH

David Haass

Author

David Haass is a licensed Medicare expert who has been helping beneficiaries navigate their Medicare options for over a decade.

AZ

Ashlee Zareczny

Reviewer

Ashlee Zareczny is a licensed Medicare agent dedicated to helping those eligible for Medicare find the best coverage options.

Need Help Understanding Your Coverage?

Our licensed agents can help you find the right Medicare plan that covers hospice and palliative care and more.