Understanding Hospice
What Is Hospice Care?
Hospice is specialized, compassionate care focused on comfort, dignity, and quality of life for those facing a terminal illness — and support for the families who love them.
The Hospice Philosophy
Comfort Over Cure
Hospice care is a philosophy of care, not a place. It is a compassionate approach to end-of-life care that focuses on managing pain and symptoms, providing emotional and spiritual support, and helping patients live as fully and comfortably as possible.
Hospice care does not hasten death — nor does it try to prolong it. Instead, it affirms life and supports the natural process of dying with dignity and peace.
Pacific Hospice brings a full interdisciplinary team to the patient — including nurses, aides, social workers, chaplains, and counselors — providing comprehensive support to both the patient and their entire family.
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Recognizing the Right Time
When to Consider Hospice Care
Many families wish they had called hospice sooner. If any of the following apply to your loved one, it may be time to have a conversation with your physician or our care team.
A physician has determined that a patient has a terminal illness with a prognosis of six months or less if the illness runs its normal course
The patient and family have decided to focus on comfort and quality of life rather than curative treatment
Pain, symptoms, or side effects from treatment are significantly affecting quality of life
The patient wishes to remain at home or in a familiar setting rather than a hospital
The family needs additional support, guidance, and relief in caring for their loved one
Not sure if hospice is right for your loved one? Our team can help.
Call Us: 210-864-4967Understanding the Difference
Hospice vs. Palliative Care
Hospice Care
- For patients with a terminal prognosis of 6 months or less
- Curative treatment is no longer being pursued
- Fully covered with Medicare Part A
- Comprehensive team support including bereavement care
- Focus: comfort, dignity, and quality of life
A Note on Insurance Coverage
Please consult with our team regarding your specific plan. Many Medicare Advantage and supplemental plans revert coverage back to traditional Medicare Part A once a patient elects hospice — our staff can help you navigate what applies to your situation.
Palliative Care
- For patients at any stage of a serious illness
- Can be provided alongside curative treatment
- Coverage varies by plan and provider
- Focuses on symptom relief and quality of life
- Can transition to hospice when appropriate
PTP Bridge Program
Our Palliative-to-Hospice (PTP) Bridge Program provides a seamless, supported transition from palliative care into hospice — so patients and families never feel like they're starting over. When the time is right, our team guides the transition with continuity, compassion, and no gaps in care.
Have Questions?
We've Answered the Most Common Ones
From eligibility and Medicare coverage to what to expect day-to-day — our FAQ page covers it all, organized by topic.
View All FAQsWe're Ready to Help Your Family
Contact our care team today to learn more about hospice care or to begin the referral process.