04/09/2026
Understanding the difference between Palliative and Hospice Care is important. You may have heard: "All Hospice is Palliative Care, but not all Palliative Care is Hospice." That is a very true statement. The terms are frequently confused, and the word "Hospice" usually stokes fear, while "Palliative" is hospice's friendly cousin.
The truth is, Hospice is a BENEFIT and a SERVICE provided by our company which specializes in palliative care for those who qualify. To qualify for this benefit, which is paid 100% by Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurances, you must have a life-limiting illness; and based on the progression of that illness, have a prognosis of 6 months or less. So, what is a "Prognosis"? It is your and our doctor's best estimate of someone's remaining life span based on the information we have. That's it.
Can you live longer than 6 months? - YES.
Can you live less than 6 months? - YES.
Only God knows the date and time of our passing- the rest of us are just guessing.
Does Palliative or Hospice Care "speed up" someone dying? - NO.
In fact, several studies indicate that people live an additional month longer on average when receiving these services because of the quality of care that is provided.
As time goes on, we all move closer to the end of our lives. The best thing we can do for ourselves, and our families, is to understand what is available and take advantage of it at the right time. Don't wait until the last minute- CALL TODAY!