How Easy is it to Switch Hospice Providers?

For families with loved ones who are nearing the end of life or are terminally ill, hospice care is a specialized service that provides much-needed physical and emotional care. It addresses pain and symptom management while allowing the patient to live in the comfort of their own home. If your loved one is currently receiving hospice care but you are interested in switching providers, you may not know what your options are. Thankfully, the process of switching providers is possible, easy, and fully supported by Medicare. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how you can switch hospice providers for your loved one.

Is it possible to switch hospice providers once your loved one is enrolled?

Families have the right to choose the hospice provider that best suits their needs. If their needs aren’t being met by their current hospice provider, it is possible and recommended to switch to a new home hospice company. Some of the most common reasons for switching providers include dissatisfaction with the current provider, relocation to a new area, and changes in the patient’s health. No matter your reason for wanting to switch hospice providers for your loved one, the process is simple, and there is no interruption in care or treatment.

How easy is it to switch hospice providers while they are currently receiving care?

Switching hospice providers is an easy process with just a few simple steps. First, call around to interview other hospice companies. Once you have found one that meets your needs, you can sign a transfer notice with the new hospice company that you have chosen. It is a one-page form stating that you have decided to discontinue services with the current hospice company. Then, you must contact your current hospice provider and notify them of your decision to switch to a new hospice company. Complete and sign the transfer form, then have the new hospice company fax or email it to the current provider. While some companies may pressure you to stay, it’s important to remember that you have the right to change providers. Once the signed form is sent, the original hospice company should respect your decision without any threats or harassment. Your current hospice provider must administer the transfer of care promptly and cannot unreasonably deny providing you with the paperwork.

Next, you’ll need to file a clear and signed statement with the current and new hospice agencies. The statement must include the following information:

• The name of the hospice agency from which the member has received care
• The name of the hospice agency from which the member plans to receive care
• The date the change is to be effective

What is Medicare’s role in allowing hospice provider changes?

Medicare allows beneficiaries to change their hospice provider once during each benefit period. This means that a patient can switch to a different hospice provider if they choose, and Medicare will cover the new provider’s services as long as they are Medicare-certified. In Utah, a member or representative can change providers once for each election or benefit period. Once your loved one is enrolled in hospice, their benefit period will last 90 days. After these 90 days, they will have an unlimited number of 60-day periods. You can switch providers for your loved one once within these timeframes. Please note that the process and terms may differ if the patient is covered by private insurance.

The Most Common Misconceptions About Switching Hospice Providers

Unfortunately, there are many common misconceptions about switching hospice providers. The biggest misconception is that it is not possible to switch providers. Unfortunately, many hospice companies may try to intimidate patients and families, claiming they can’t switch or that it is too difficult. However, this goes against Medicare hospice guidelines. In fact, the admission paperwork for hospice is supposed to clearly state patients’ rights to switch providers if they are dissatisfied with the care being provided.

Another common misconception is that changing hospice providers will disrupt care or cause potential delays in treatment and that it is a time-consuming or complicated process. However, the process is seamless with Medicare’s support and cooperation from professional hospice companies. It is the role of hospice companies to ensure smooth transitions and maintain continuity of care. Overall, the process is easy and allows patients and families to find the best fit for their needs without worrying about interruptions.

Ready to Switch? Trust Dignity Home Health & Hospice

At Dignity Home Health & Hospice, we’re committed to providing a smooth transition for your loved one. If you’re considering switching hospice companies, we’re here to help make the change smooth and stress-free. Our experienced and helpful team will work with you and your current provider to ensure no disruption in care, guiding you every step of the way. Contact us to learn how we can help you find the care that best suits your loved one’s needs. Schedule your free consultation today!