Question

When a Medicare patient revokes the election of hospice care, ________.

a. They can re-elect hospice care after 6 months
b. They lose Medicare coverage entirely
c. They cannot re-elect hospice care
d. They are automatically transitioned to palliative care

Answer 1

When a Medicare patient revokes their hospice care election, they can re-elect hospice care at any future time if they meet the eligibility criteria. Revoking hospice care does not lead to a loss of Medicare coverage or automatic transition to palliative care.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a Medicare patient revokes the election of hospice care, they have the option to re-elect hospice care at any time if they again become terminally ill and meet the eligibility requirements. This decision does not affect their Medicare coverage as a whole. Contrary to some misconceptions, revoking hospice care does not mean that the patient loses Medicare coverage entirely, nor does it prevent them from electing hospice care in the future if needed. Additionally, it's important to note that upon revocation, patients are not automatically transitioned to palliative care, although they may choose to receive palliative care services separately.

Research supports the benefits of hospice care for both the patient and the family, including improved quality of life, reduced burden of care, and enhanced coping mechanisms during a very challenging time. Families often receive much-needed emotional support and regular updates about their loved one's condition, which can be invaluable.