Hospice
Hospice begins when a cure is no longer possible, and symptom management, along with promoting comfort, is the goal. WVU Medicine Hospice focuses on preserving your quality of life by addressing symptoms without hastening ongoing medical decline.
WVU Medicine Hospice is a Medicare-certified agency and accredited by The Joint Commission.
Our Team and Services
WVU Medicine physicians are on call 24 hours a day for care consultations, and our support professionals are specifically trained to provide pain and symptom management.
We help individuals and families with needs related to end-of-life care, including individual and group counseling; physical, occupational, speech-language therapy; and nutritional counseling.
Our care team also includes providers who assist with personal hygiene and grooming, and specialists who provide spiritual guidance to people of all faiths.
Our social work professionals also provide patients and families with resources and support to assist during this difficult time.
In addition, we coordinate all medications and durable medical equipment needs for our patients.
The team includes:
- Physicians
- Nurses
- Hospice aides
- Social workers
- Therapists
- Dietitians
- Bereavement specialists
- Chaplains
Who determines when a person starts hospice care?
When treatment is no longer effective and life is being measured in months, the decision for hospice care is made by the individual and their provider.
How can a person get a referral?
If you have questions or want to make a referral, contact WVU Medicine Hospice. A team member can answer questions and explain hospice services to individuals, families, or healthcare providers.
Who pays?
Payment for hospice care services is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance.
WVU Medicine Hospice is need-based, and care is available regardless of the ability to pay. Funding for individuals who qualify is provided through WVUHS financial policies, private donations, and charitable gifts.
