Does Medicare cover 100% of hospice care?

Yes, for the hospice services themselves. The only costs are a copay of up to $5 per prescription for pain and symptom drugs, and 5% coinsurance on inpatient respite days, capped at the year's inpatient hospital deductible ($1,736 for 2026).

Does hospice cover a hospital bed or wheelchair at home?

Yes. Medical equipment like wheelchairs, walkers, and hospital beds, along with medical supplies like bandages and catheters, are covered as part of the hospice benefit.

Does Medicare pay for a nursing home room while on hospice?

Generally no. Hospice's medical services are covered if you live in a nursing facility, but the facility's room and board charges aren't, except during an approved inpatient or respite stay.

How many days of respite care does Medicare cover, and can I use more than one stay?

Up to five consecutive days per stay, in a Medicare-approved facility. There's no limit on how many separate respite stays you can use over the course of a hospice benefit period, as long as your family caregiver needs the break.

top of page

What Medicare's Hospice Benefit Actually Covers

Hospice Guidebook

Sep 3

0 min read

Updated: Sep 14