Hospice and palliative care: a guide for families
Palliative care and hospice both focus on comfort and quality of life. This guide explains how they differ, how Medicare covers hospice, and how to choose a provider.
Last reviewed October 27, 2026
General information only. This guide is not medical, legal or financial advice. Talk with a physician, and with an elder-law or financial professional where money or legal papers are involved, about your own situation.
Palliative care
Palliative care focuses on relief from pain and other symptoms of a serious illness, and on quality of life for the person and family. It can be given alongside treatment aimed at the illness.
Hospice care
Hospice is care for someone with a terminal illness when the focus moves from treating the illness to comfort. Medicare covers hospice when a doctor certifies the person is terminally ill, with a life expectancy of 6 months or less.
How it is paid for
Medicare covers hospice for people who qualify, and many plans and Medicaid programs also cover it. Palliative care is often billed like other medical care, so coverage depends on the person's insurance. Veterans may get both through VA health care.
Choosing a provider
If you have a choice of providers, ask:
- Is the provider Medicare-certified?
- How quickly can someone come after a call, day or night?
- Which services and supplies are included?
- What support is offered to the family, including after a death?
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Medicare covers hospice where the person lives, which can include a nursing home or assisted living community. Medicare doesn't cover room and board there.
Yes. Medicare says a person can choose to stop hospice care, and can start it again later if they still qualify.
No. Palliative care can be given at any point in a serious illness, alongside treatment. Hospice is for the final months of life, when the focus moves to comfort.
Sources
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