Staff
The hospice staff includes physicians, nurses, home health aides, medical social workers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists and spiritual counselors all working together to assist patients and their families. In addition, the program is supported by trained volunteers.

Eligibility
A patient, family member or friend should feel free to discuss hospice care with their physician or other health care provider. The decision to engage hospice support should be made as early as possible once the focus of care shifts from curative to palliative or comfort care. Approval from the patient's physician is usually required to begin care under hospice.

Financial Coverage
Most hospice services are covered by Medicare, Medicaid, health maintenance organizations or private insurance agencies. Private pay and fee options are also available.