What is the Cost Difference Between Hospice vs. Palliative

When a patient has been diagnosed with a severe medical condition that has been termed a terminal illness, their families have to make some difficult decisions regarding the available medical care options. In such scenarios, the two options that are usually a part of conversations are ‘hospice’ and ‘palliative’ care. 

Both of these patient care options focus on providing both physical and emotional care to patients and improving their quality of life. However, there are still some differences between them that need to be discussed. One of these significant aspects is the cost of personal care. 

Read on as we describe some major cost differences between these two options and the factors responsible for these differences. 

Cost Difference Between Hospice and Palliative Care

The level of care provided, the patient’s medical condition, and their insurance policy determine the cost of care. Below are the cost considerations for both of these options. 

1. Hospice Care Costs

There are many insurance plans that cover hospice care costs. These plans include Medicare, Medicaid, and some other private insurance plans out there. The coverage provided by these insurance plans includes services ranging from all the medical equipment, personalized care, and medications relating to the illness. 

Patients also get nursing care, personalized counseling, and many more facilities based on this plan. In most cases, the caregivers provide hospice care to patients at normally no cost to the patient and their family’s end. However, if patients opt for Specialized Home Care, additional charges will be included. 

2. Palliative Care Costs

Just like hospice care, palliative care is also covered by certain types of insurance policies. These include Medicare, Medicaid, and other insurance plans available within the United States. But unlike hospice care, palliative care also includes other curative treatments to improve the patient’s medical condition. 

This ultimately leads to some additional medical costs including medications and other specialized care plans. Moreover, hospital stays, diagnostic medical tests, and doctor consultations are also included in these additional costs. 

Factors Affecting the Costs

1. Location of the Care Facility

The location where your facility is located significantly influences the costs associated with it. For example, the facilities in rural areas will cost much less as compared to the ones in urban and developed areas. This is because the facilities in urban areas will have more facilities and can provide you access to more qualified healthcare practitioners. 

2. Level of Care

Different patients have different needs when it comes to their medical conditions. For example, during hospice care, if the patient is receiving care at home, it will cost more as compared to if the patient is receiving the care in a nursing facility. 

On the other hand, in the case of palliative care, the cost will depend on factors ranging from outpatient consultation to inpatient hospital stays. 

3. Insurance Coverage

The type of insurance plan a patient has coverage for also impacts the total expenses for hospice or palliative care. So, make sure to opt for a plan that covers all the expenses involved in care. These involve co-pays, deductibles, and any coverage limitations.