Hospice: Hospice Use May Grow If Concurrent Care Demo Takes Off

Why This Topic Matters

Policy changes affecting hospice eligibility and concurrent treatment options can shape how patients access end-of-life care and how providers structure services. The article is important for understanding broader hospice access trends and the federal programs driving potential change.

Article Sections

1. Health reform provisions affecting hospice access

   Introduces federal health reform provisions that may influence hospice participation and concurrent care access. Covers the general policy context for terminally ill patients and families.

2. Concurrent care demonstration and CMS planning

   Describes the Medicare demonstration program framework and the role of CMS in developing it. Notes that the program is intended to test concurrent service delivery and evaluate outcomes.

3. Removing barriers to hospice care

   Discusses how changes in care options may affect patient acceptance of hospice and end-of-life decision-making. Includes perspectives from palliative care leaders and the broader hospice philosophy.

4. Hospice utilization and spending context

   Provides background statistics on hospice enrollment, spending, and typical length of stay. Uses these figures to frame the scale of hospice care in the Medicare program.