American Hospice Foundation, Washington DC, USA

Where do patients receive hospice care?

Patients with a terminal illness can receive hospice care and services in the location that is most appropriate for them. At Home Most hospice care in the US takes place in the patient's home. Family members provide the routine daily care for the patient. Hospice provides specialized care and training for the family. Outside of the Home For patients who cannot be cared for at home, for example if: patients do not have family members to help care for them, or patients cannot be comfortably or safely cared for at home, hospice care may be available at an assisted living center or a nursing home*, with hospice care coordinated with the staff of the facility. Some, but not all, hospices may have a special "home-like" residential hospice facility available. For hospice patients who need intensive care, hospice services may also be provided in special hospice beds or units in a hospital. * Keep in mind that hospice benefits do not usually cover the cost of housing a patient in a nursing home or assisted living facility (also known as daily room and board costs). However, these costs may be covered by traditional Medicare benefits or other benefits you have.