Hospice Admission

Patient Admission

The decision to admit a patient to Mercy Hospice is made by the patient/family, attending physician and Mercy Hospice medical director. Acceptance of patients for hospice service is based on a reasonable expectation that patient/family needs can be met by hospice and the hospice team.

Admission Criteria

Admission to Mercy Hospice is based on the following criteria:

• A life-limiting illness, as confirmed by a physician.
• An agreement between the patient, the family and the attending physician that no curative therapy is available or desired.
• A physician orders hospice services.
• The patient and the family mutually desire end-of-life care.
• The continuous availability of a family member or caregiver to ensure patient safety and comfort in the home environment.

Homebound status is not required. Medicare, Medicaid and most insurance plans normally cover hospice services. An eligible patient is never turned away, regardless of the ability to pay.

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