Hospice Selection Criteria
When choosing a hospice, consider the following criteria:
- Is the hospice Medicare-certified?
- Is the hospice accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCOAHO)?
- Has someone you trust recommended this hospice based on personal knowledge or experience?
- Did you have a positive visit with the hospice? (try to visit the hospice facility and speak with staff even if the patient is going to be remaining at home)
- How many nurses are on staff during different shifts?
- How was the hospice assessed in it latest inspection survey?
- Have there been complaints filed against this hospice and how did the hospice respond to remedy the problem?
Health care providers and insurance companies may recommend or refer to certain hospice providers. Ask on what basis they make their recommendations or referrals. Do not be afraid to request a different hospice provider if you prefer.
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