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Approximately 400,000 hospice volunteers contribute more than 18 million hours per year of vital respite care and companionship
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For over twenty-five years, hospice has been a fully covered benefit under Medicare. Hospice is also covered by Medicaid, most private insurance plans, HMO's and other managed care organizations
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Hospice care is available as long as
a doctor recommends that the patient is eligible
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Hospice professionals can help people document their wishes for end-of-life care and offer assistance with important documents such as advance directives
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More than 4,000 hospice programs provided care to over 1.5 million Americans in 2008
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Less than one percent of Medicare beneficiaries live in an area that is not serviced by hospice
Hospice offers grief support to families served. Hospice also offers community support for others in need due to a recent loss or unexpected loss
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The hospice benefit pays for medications and medical equipment to keep the person safe and comfortable
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Professionally-trained hospice staff provide real solutions to families in the midst of a crisis, while always honoring personal wishes and choices
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Hospice and palliative care is for the patient and the family. In addition to excellent medical care, hospice care includes emotional support, spiritual guidance, and bereavement support following the death
