Hospice in Houston, TX

Houston Texas Hospice care: How to pay for Hospice Care, Licensing and Regulations, and Questions to ask

Houston is the most populous city in Texas and in the Southern United States. The city’s relatively compact Downtown includes the Theater District, home to the renowned Houston Grand Opera, and the Historic District, with 19th-century architecture and upscale restaurants. Houston is famous for its large international community, growing art scene, and cultural diversity. It is home to some of the most popular theaters and the coastal visitor center at NASA’s astronaut training and flight control complex.

Texas is a sought after destination for seniors. Retirees and our aging adult population enjoy the warm climate and low cost of living. Texas is a family friendly state, full of friendly neighborhoods, with many parks and entertainment venues fit for everyone. Some of the most diverse cuisine can be found in Texas. The state of Texas is home to more than 3.5 million senior citizens, and the number is growing with each passing year.

About Hospice in Houston

Texas hospice care is a concept of care, not a specific place of care. Hospice care is for those who have been living with a terminal illness or only recently received a serious diagnosis of six months or less life expectancy. This specific type of care is there to ease the burden of 24-hour care. It provides a respectful, comfortable care setting for your loved one’s final months and weeks or days. It is an option to consider and can be especially helpful for families, or those seniors without family to provide end-of-life care. 

Texas hospice care services are covered in full by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans with little or no expense to the patient. Coverage includes everything involved in hospice care, from visits by a nurse, physician, and other healthcare professionals. Texas Department of Health and Human Services provides residents of Texas with pertinent information regarding programs to promote health and safety in their communities.

Considerations when looking for care in Houston. 

The city of Houston is home to 2.288 million people. Hospice services are abundant for this major city with over 200 providers.

August normally ranks as the warmest month in Houston at 84 °F and January is the coldest month at 53 °F.

Cities Near Houston

• Spring – 25 miles north of Houston
• League City – 25 miles south of Houston
• Highlands – 21 miles east of Houston
• Cinco Ranch – 29 miles west of Houston
• Local Hospitals and Healthcare Providers

How to pay for Hospice Care?

Medicare, private health insurance, and Medicaid (in 43 states) covers hospice care for patients who meet eligibility criteria.

Private insurance and veterans’ benefits may also cover hospice care under certain conditions. In addition, some hospice programs offer healthcare services on a sliding fee scale basis for patients with limited income and resources. To get help with your Medicare questions call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or visit www.medicare.gov. Additional information about how to pay for hospice care can be found at the Public Policy Institute of the AARP.

Who Pays for Palliative Care?

Medicare, Medicaid, many insurers, and healthcare plans will cover the medical portions—physician and nurse services—of palliative care.

Veterans may be eligible for palliative care through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Check with your doctor and healthcare plan to see what insurance will cover in your particular situation. Unlike the comprehensive hospice benefit, there is no comprehensive palliative care benefit.

Questions about Hospice Care

Is Hospice only for those who have cancer? 

No. It is for anyone with a terminal illness who has been given a prognosis by their doctor of six months or less.  

Do only elderly people use these services.  

It is for all age groups during the final stages of their life. The intention is to allow people to enjoy the closeness of family and a comfortable environment in the last stages of their life.  

Do people on hospice die immediately? 

This care does not hasten death. Though, studies have shown people often live longer than those with the same or similar illnesses who do not choose hospice. 

Are all hospices the same? 

The United States offers thousands of hospices. Most engage in Medicare, which requires certain services for the person in care. So, there is a standard operating procedure.  

How can I afford Hospice care? Is it expensive. 

Hospice care is covered by Medicare Part A, and your personal insurance. 

Is Hospice is only provided in the individual’s home? 

NO, Care is provided wherever the person is, which could be a long-term care facility or a hospital. Being take care of at home is always an option. 

Local Hospitals and Healthcare Providers

Doctors Clinic Houston

10961 Northwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77092

Legacy Community Health – Montrose Clinic

1415 California St, Houston, TX 77006

St. Joseph Medical Center

1401 St Joseph Pkwy, Houston, TX 77002

Kindred Hospital Houston Northwest

11297 Fallbrook Dr, Houston, TX 77065

Houston Methodist Hospital

6551 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX 77030

Resources and Links- Texas

Elder Abuse Prevention focuses on the abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults who are elderly or have disabilities and who live in the community. Any adult who has a disability or who is age 65 or older that is in a state of abuse, neglect, or exploitation may be eligible to receive adult protective services.

Health Information, Counseling and Advocacy Program This program offers counseling and assistance on a variety of topics including: Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare Supplemental Insurance- long term care financing options and other health insurance options. 

Care Connection Aging and Disability Center connects people with services that help them maintain or improve their quality of life. Whether you are looking for information for yourself, a family member, a patient, or a friend, we will help you identify the right services for your needs.

Eldercare Locator is a nationwide resource that connects older Americans and their caregivers with trustworthy local support resources. Connect with services such as meals, home care or transportation, or a caregiver education or respite from caregiving responsibilities. The Eldercare Locator is a public service of the Administration on Aging (AoA), an agency of the U.S. Administration for Community Living.

Medicare provides a search feature to find & compare providers near you, most senior housing and care providers are included on CareAvailability.com. Find & compare plans in your area. Determine if you qualify for premium savings

Medicaid offers information on how to apply for Medicaid, eligibility criteria, links to local state offices, and additional resources.

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Whether you are living with Alzheimer’s or caring for someone with the disease, information and resources are available.

Search other areas for Hospice Care

Not finding what you’re looking for? Take a look below.

Search Other Areas Assisted Living