Frequently Asked Questions

When is it time for Hospice Austin care?

At any time during a serious illness, it is appropriate to discuss all of a patient’s care options, including hospice. Support Source provides resource coordination and volunteer services to individuals with a life expectancy of one year or less.   Central Texas Palliative Care Associates are here to help with pain and symptom management for individuals who have a life expectancy of one year or less.  Hospice Austin provides comprehensive, specialized care to patients and families living with a life-threatening or advanced illness with a life expectancy of six months.

How does someone start Hospice Austin care?

Anyone—the patient, the family member, friend or neighbor can contact Hospice Austin at any time to get information about our services.  Hospice Austin staff members visit you and your family to learn about your specific needs and contact your doctor to get approval for admission.   Call our main number, (512) 342-4700 or toll free 800-445-3261, or send an e-mail.

Who pays for Hospice Austin care?

Hospice Austin care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance companies.  As a non-profit organization, Hospice Austin receives generous community support from individuals, corporations and foundations that allows us to provide care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.

What if I live outside of Austin?

Hospice Austin’s home care is available to anyone living in the five-county region of Travis, Williamson, Bastrop Caldwell and Hays counties.  Patients living outside these five counties are eligible for care in our inpatient facility, Hospice Austin’s Christopher House. 

Can pain be controlled outside the hospital setting?

Yes.  Hospice Austin's nurses and doctors are experts in controlling pain.  Emphasis is on promoting quality of life by providing comfort and relief from pain and symptoms.

How does Hospice Austin help patients and families?

We know this can be an intense and exhausting time filled with sadness and fear of the unknown.  Hospice Austin is here to walk side-by-side with you, every step.  We make it possible for you to concentrate on what’s important — your time together.  Hospice Austin utilizes a team-oriented approach to provide specialized care to the patient and their loved ones.  The team usually consists of a physician, nurse, social worker, home health aide, homemaker, volunteer, chaplain and bereavement counselor (as requested) — all working together and focusing on the needs and wishes of the patient and loved ones.