04/15/2026
Choosing a hospice agency; it’s primarily the patient’s choice
Here’s how it works:
Patient (or legal decision-maker) - The patient has the right to choose any hospice provider they prefer. If the patient can’t decide, a healthcare proxy, power of attorney, or family member may choose on their behalf.
Physician (MD)- The doctor’s role is to certify eligibility for hospice (typically confirming a life expectancy of about 6 months or less if the illness runs its usual course). They may recommend hospice agencies, but they cannot Force the choice.
Hospital or care team- Case managers or discharge planners often provide a list of hospice agencies, but again, the final decision belongs to the patient or their representative.
Bottom line: The MD confirms eligibility, but the patient (or their legal representative) chooses the hospice agency.
Visit us . treeoflife-hospice.com or call for assessment 956-994-9602