Who is eligible?

Persons eligible for hospice care include individuals who have a life-limiting or terminal illness and have decided, with the consent of their family physician, to receive comfort care rather than seek a cure for their illness.

Who can benefit from hospice care?

Iowa Hospice is for anyone with a life-limiting or terminal illness. We have assisted patients with conditions such as cancer, AIDS, heart disease, Lou Gehrig's disease, Alzheimer's.

When is it time for hospice care?

It is never too late to seek hospice care. Patients and families are eligible when treatments for a cure are no longer successful. We encourage patients and their families to come to us early. With Iowa Hospice, there is no need for pain to go unmanaged or for people to struggle without support.

Will patients have to change doctors?

Most physicians continue caring for patients who enter the hospice program. In addition, the hospice staff specializes in pain management and works closely with the patient's physician to determine the plan of care for their illness.

Where is hospice care given?

Hospice care is given wherever it is needed. Iowa Hospice strives to provide the care needed within the comfort of a home environment but can go wherever the patient needs assistance, such as a nursing home, assisted-living facility, or hospital.

Who pays for hospice care?

Funding comes from Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, and individuals. No one with a life-limiting or terminal illness is ever turned away because of an inability to pay.