Choosing a Hospice Provider: Questions to Ask

Many families don’t realize they have a real choice in hospice provider — asking the right questions upfront can make a meaningful difference in the experience ahead.

Do we actually get to choose which hospice provider to use?

In most cases, yes - a hospital or doctor may suggest a hospice, but families generally have the right to choose among providers serving their area, similar to choosing a funeral home.

What questions should I ask about availability?

• Is staff available by phone 24/7, including nights and weekends?
• How quickly does someone typically respond to an urgent call?
• How often will the team visit, and can that frequency change if needs increase?

What questions should I ask about services?

• What specific services are included, versus what might cost extra?
• Do they provide inpatient care directly, or through a partnership with a separate facility?
• What bereavement support do they offer the family, and for how long after the death?

What questions should I ask about experience and fit?

• Do they have specific experience with the patient’s condition?
• Are they experienced with, or willing to accommodate, specific religious or cultural practices that matter to your family?
• Can they share references or reviews from other families they’ve served?

Should I ask about religious or cultural accommodation?

Yes, if this matters to your family - asking directly whether a hospice has experience with specific religious or cultural practices, or is willing to accommodate them, can meaningfully affect the quality of care and comfort for your family.

How quickly can hospice care typically start?

Often within a day or two of a decision to move forward, once eligibility is confirmed by a doctor - though exact timing can vary by provider and the specific circumstances. It’s worth asking directly what the intake and eligibility confirmation process involves for a specific provider.

How do I compare different hospice providers?

Medicare’s Care Compare tool allows comparing hospice providers serving a specific area based on certain quality measures - a useful starting point alongside the direct conversations above.

Can we switch providers if needed?

Yes - if a hospice provider isn’t meeting a family’s needs, switching to a different provider is generally possible. This isn’t a decision you’re locked into permanently.

If you’re also considering a private doula, see how to find and choose an end-of-life doula; for the team’s roles, see who does what on an end-of-life care team.

If medical aid in dying matters to you, see hospice and medical aid in dying for questions to ask.

This is general guidance — a hospital social worker or discharge planner can often help connect you with hospice options serving your specific area.