We want to honor the veterans who have served our country, but many are unaware that they could qualify for certain benefits as they face the end of their life’s journey. Do veterans qualify for hospice care? We’ll review a few things to take into account when examining what the VA will cover.

Since our inception in 1981, we’ve cared for hospice patients and their families. With complete access to an array of services, we help care not only for the patient but for the family as well. We do this to ensure that you or your loved one receives care that will allow transition with dignity in as little discomfort as possible. Contact us for more information on how our scope of services can help you or someone you love.

We’ll take a closer look at the answers to “Do veterans qualify for hospice care?” as well as examine important elements you should always remember.

Do Veterans Qualify For Hospice Care?

Yes, veterans can qualify for hospice care as long as they have served in some branch of the military. The VA may also pay for hospice care at home.

However, to qualify, veterans must also meet a set of criteria to receive those hospice benefits.

Which Two Conditions Must Be Present for a Patient to Enroll in Hospice?

There are two main criteria to qualify for hospice care: 

1. The patient must have six months or less to live: Is the disease life-limiting? Is there any chance the patient will recover from the underlying illness causing their decline? Hospice serves patients with a wide range of diagnoses, but what they all have in common is that the patient has six months or less to live.

Some common illnesses that qualify include:

• Advanced heart disease
• Cancer
• COPD
• Parkinson’s disease
• Renal failure
• Respiratory failure

2. The patient must have chosen to forego treatment to cure the disease. This means declining medical intervention and allowing the disease to “follow its course.”

Please note: this does not apply to treating symptoms of the disease. One of the best aspects of 3HC hospice care is that we help ensure symptoms and pain are managed, making patients as comfortable as possible so they can make precious memories and be surrounded by those they love. 

What Services Does 3HC Hospice Provide to Support Veterans?

We recognize that care isn’t just about managing symptoms, but it’s about providing both spiritual and psychological support. This philosophy is reflected by our diverse team of healthcare professionals who serve veterans. 

Services include:

• Assistance with daily activities
• Pain management
• Emotional and psychological support
• Spiritual support through a hospice chaplain
• Symptom management

Tips for Navigating the VA System for In-Home Hospice Care

Does the VA pay for in-home hospice care? As we’ve revealed, there are several hospice benefits available for qualified veterans. Following are some important elements to have in mind as you start the process of obtaining in-home hospice services.

• Contact your local VA office. You should speak with a representative or visit their website to learn about the various hospice care programs and services that are available.
• Speak to Your VA Healthcare professional. By discussing your situation with the VA healthcare provider, you can better understand if you meet the eligibility requirements and evaluate your options.
• Select a hospice provider. We understand that you have a choice in which hospice you use. As a not-for-profit hospice, at 3HC, we place patients ahead of profits, ensuring that anyone who qualifies for care will not be turned away. This, coupled with experienced professionals and a multifaceted scope of services makes 3HC the leading choice for veterans.

3HC: Honoring Those Who Gave Their Best to Our Country

Sadly, many take for granted the many freedoms that we enjoy in the United States. These freedoms are due in part to those who chose a selfless life of service to their country. 

We understand that. We understand veterans. We serve them as part of our family because at 3HC, we care for our patients as if they were members of our own family. We’re proud to be a 5-star partner of the We Honor Veterans Program. This awareness campaign seeks to promote veteran-centric activities and adjust capacity not only to serve more veterans but to also improve access to quality services.

Want to learn more about how 3HC aids veterans? Contact us today to get started on your care plan.