Resources for Healthcare Professionals
Access hospice eligibility guidelines, clinical education, and resources for seamless patient care coordination with Preferred Hospice Care.
(888) 264-4401Hospice Eligibility Guidelines
Understanding when to refer patients to hospice care is crucial for ensuring they receive appropriate comfort-focused care at the right time. Medicare and most insurance providers cover hospice services when a physician certifies that a patient has a life expectancy of six months or less if the disease follows its natural course.
General Eligibility Criteria
- • Life expectancy of 6 months or less
- • Patient chooses comfort care over curative treatment
- • Progressive decline in clinical status
- • Frequent hospitalizations or ER visits
- • Decline in functional status (ADLs)
Clinical Indicators
- • Progressive weight loss (>10% in 6 months)
- • Recurrent infections or complications
- • Declining lab values (albumin, hemoglobin)
- • Dyspnea at rest
- • Uncontrolled pain or symptoms
Hospice eligibility is not limited to cancer patients. We serve patients with heart disease, COPD, dementia, kidney failure, liver disease, ALS, and many other life-limiting conditions. Early referral allows patients to benefit from comprehensive symptom management and support services for a longer period.
Referral Process
Referring a patient to Preferred Hospice Care is simple and streamlined. We work closely with physicians, case managers, and discharge planners to ensure smooth transitions and continuity of care.
1. Contact Us
Call our 24/7 referral line at (888) 264-4401 to discuss patient eligibility and needs
2. Assessment
Our clinical team conducts a comprehensive assessment and verifies insurance coverage
3. Care Begins
We initiate care within 24 hours, often same-day, with full coordination and communication
Clinical Education & Resources
Preferred Hospice Care is committed to advancing hospice and palliative care knowledge through education and collaboration with healthcare professionals.
Continuing Education
We offer free CE credits for physicians, nurses, and social workers through regular educational seminars on end-of-life care topics.
Clinical Guidelines
Access disease-specific hospice eligibility guidelines, symptom management protocols, and best practices for end-of-life care.