Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
Financial Questions
Medical Questions

General Questions

Q: Why do I need an advanced directive?

A: To answer click here .

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Q: What is Hospice?

A: Hospice provides palliative care and support for persons with terminal illness and a prognosis of having six months or less to live. The goal of hospice is to help our patients live as fully as possible and to provide comfort and relief from pain and symptoms during their last months of life. An interdisciplinary team of professionals and trained volunteers strive to meet the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of each patient and family.

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Q: How do I sign up for hospice care?

A: Anyone can make a referral to Hospice Hawaii by calling 924-9255. A hospice representative will gladly meet with the potential patient and family for an initial meeting to discuss hospice benefits at no obligation or cost. Should a patient and family desire to receive hospice care, we will get the permission of the patient's physician to start caring for the patient. Physicians also can make the referral. There will be forms to sign at the time of admission to the hospice program. Some forms release documents to obtain medical records and information as well as an agreement of understanding between the patient and family, and Hospice Hawaii , regarding the care and services to be received. Other forms allow Hospice Hawaii to receive payment from Medicare and other insurance carriers.

Q: Who is eligible for Hospice Care?

A: Anyone whose health condition has reached the point that their attending physician believes their life expectancy is months versus years to live. Hospice care is for those who agree and prefer that their focus of care be palliative (comfort based) rather than curative.

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Q: What if I change my mind later about receiving hospice care?

A: You can always sign off the hospice program at any time. The hospice representative can explain the implications of signing off in more detail.

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Q: What if my care gets too difficult to manage at home?

A: This is a very common concern. You will most likely find that with Hospice Hawaii's care team's support, the care is less difficult than you anticipated. If care becomes too difficult at home or the patient has symptoms that require it, a short-term inpatient stay of a few days is available at no cost to the patient and family. Longer-term inpatient care is available at our Hospice Hawaii Kailua Home. Some out of pocket expense may be involved for the cost of room and board. Respite care is also available to simply give the family a break from caring.

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Q: What is the difference between hospice care and the other types of home care services?

A: Hospice care is more than just physical care. Hospice care is a comprehensive plan of care for both a patient and the family, also addressing emotional, social and spiritual needs. Also, hospice care does not stop once a patient passes away. Bereavement support for surviving family members and loved ones is available for up to one year after the patient's death.

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Financial Questions

Q: How much does Hospice Care cost?

A: Most health insurance programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover hospice care. Hospice care at our residential hospice home, a hospital, or other facility may require a co-payment or may be covered by insurance. Hospice Hawaii prepares all the billing and paperwork for insurance reimbursement.

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Q: What if I can't afford Hospice Care?

A: Hospice Hawaii 's mission is to care for all regardless of their ability to pay. If you do not have insurance coverage or the ability to pay, please inform us. Your eligibility for financial aid will be evaluated during the admission process.

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Medical Questions

Q: If my condition changes suddenly, should we call the ambulance?

A: Most hospice patients do not wish 911 to be called. There may be some circumstances when it might be appropriate to call 911. Please discuss this with your hospice nurse. Hospice Hawaii has on on-call nurse available at all time to assist with unexpected changes in condition.

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Q: Will I continue to have my own doctor?

A: Your physician continues to be in charge of your medical care. Our hospice nurse will be in regular communication with your physician to share information and receive advice and directions, if needed. The Hospice Hawaii medical director is available to consult with your physician to assist in assuring comfort.

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