Calculate Hospice Benefit Period

Hospice Benefit Period Calculation:

Determines Medicare hospice periods based on admission date: initial 90 days, then subsequent 90 days, then unlimited 60-day periods.

Hospice Benefit Period:

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1. What is Hospice Benefit Period?

The Hospice Benefit Period calculation determines Medicare hospice coverage periods based on admission date. Medicare provides an initial 90-day period, followed by a subsequent 90-day period, and then unlimited 60-day periods for hospice care.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the admission date to calculate the end date of the selected benefit period:

End Date = Admission Date + Period Duration (90 or 60 days)

Where:

Admission Date — The date when hospice care begins
Initial 90-Day Period — First Medicare hospice benefit period
Subsequent 90-Day Period — Second Medicare hospice benefit period
60-Day Periods — Unlimited additional periods after the first two 90-day periods

3. Importance of Benefit Period Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation of hospice benefit periods is crucial for Medicare billing, care planning, and ensuring continuous coverage for patients requiring hospice services.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the admission date and select the appropriate period type. The calculator will determine the end date of the selected benefit period.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the initial hospice benefit period?
A: The initial period is 90 days of Medicare hospice coverage beginning from the admission date.

Q2: What happens after the initial 90 days?
A: Patients can receive a subsequent 90-day period, followed by unlimited 60-day periods as long as they continue to meet hospice eligibility criteria.

Q3: Are there any limitations on these periods?
A: Each period requires certification that the patient continues to have a life expectancy of 6 months or less if the illness runs its normal course.

Q4: Can patients revoke hospice care?
A: Yes, patients can revoke hospice care at any time and return to traditional Medicare benefits, then later re-elect hospice if needed.

Q5: What services are covered during these periods?
A: Medicare covers all services related to the terminal illness, including nursing care, medical equipment, drugs for symptom control, and bereavement counseling.