The objective of both services is to manage pain and provide relief for symptoms during end of life care, however, the goals and prognosis can be different. Hospice is comfort care that is no longer attempting to prolong death, while palliative care is comfort care that can be with or without prolongment care.

The two are very similar in approach, but differ in terms for payment, stages of disease, inclusion/exclusion of curative care, and where it is performed. Hospice is defined as compassionate comfort care for patients who have a terminal diagnosis and a physician’s estimate of six months left to live. Palliative care is defined as compassionate care intended to provide respite from symptoms of a life-limiting illness, while also relieving the physical and mental stress that accompanies it.

Palliative care does not require a definitive timeline from a physician to be utilized.

Hospice care is paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, or your insurance. This means that there is little to no out of pocket expenses for you or your loved one. Palliative care can be paid by your insurance or out of pocket. Also, palliative care can be utilized in any stage of illness while hospice services are for those with six months left to live.
Palliative care typically happens while in the care of a medical facility, while hospice is wherever the patient decides for their end of life care. This can be at home, at a hospice facility, or in a hospital. Palliative care can be used at the same time as curative treatment, often to help aid in the management of physical, mental, and spiritual strife that accompanies the treatment. Hospice care excludes curative treatment and focuses solely on comfort.

Wherever you are in your journey with your loved one, Comfort Hospice and Palliative Care can help you find the plan that best works for you and your loved one.

Contact us today to learn more about how our hospice care can help improve the life of you and your loved one.

Call Comfort Hospice & Palliative Care at 1-877-301-3338