Hospice

Also known as end-of-life care, hospice is for people whose disease-curing treatments are no longer working, or those who wish to stop treatment. Hospice care focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This service is typically for people who are in the final six months of life.

At Penn Medicine, we’re committed to providing compassionate hospice care that allows people to remain at home. Our specially trained multidisciplinary hospice team creates personalized care plans tailored to your physical and emotional needs.

Once you and your doctor decide hospice care is right for you, our team sets up an initial consultation. They ask about your medical history, current symptoms, and preferences for home hospice care. They also set up delivery of any needed medical equipment and medication.

As part of your customized care plan, we set up scheduled visits from your hospice team, which includes a registered nurse, certified home health aide, social worker, chaplain, and bereavement counselor. If you have a loved one who wants to be actively involved in your care, we support and train them.

Home hospice care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans. Our team can help coordinate your coverage. If you don’t have insurance, you’re still eligible for hospice care. We provide care regardless of your ability to pay.

For more information, call 610-617-2400 or 800-700-8807. You may also email us at pmhospicereferrals@pennmedicine.upenn.edu.

Each year, our hospice volunteers contribute more than 11,000 hours to people in hospice and their caregivers. We have many volunteer opportunities with different sets of expectations. We provide the training and tools you need to make a difference.

To apply, fill out our hospice volunteer application. For more information, call 610-617-2400 or email pmathomevolunteerdepartment@pennmedicine.upenn.edu.