Hospice care is an option for those in the final phases of a terminal illness. Its objective is not to prolong life, but to provide maximum comfort for a patient who may be nearing the end of life. Usually, keeping the patient alert and pain-free are top priorities.

Hospice care focuses on the patient's quality of life. It treats the symptoms of the disease, but does not try to cure or retard the disease. Hospice care includes the patient and family (as much as possible) in the decision-making process. Emotional and spiritual support are major components of the hospice process.

In many cases, hospice care is provided in a patient's home, with the patient's friends or family providing most of the caregiving. It can also be provided in a nursing home, hospital, or dedicated facility.

If friends and family are providing most of the care, they can be given "respite care" by hospice workers, giving them a few days' relief from their duties. Temporary inpatient care can also be provided.

Hospice care includes arranging any religious ceremonies or guidance that the patient might require, as well as non-religious counseling. The regimen usually includes regular conferences among the patient, family, and a nurse, doctor, or social worker, to discuss the progress of the disease, options, and what to expect.

Finally, bereavement care is provided to survivors, in the form of grief counseling and referrals to spiritual advisors and other professionals.

Many hospice agencies are covered by Medicare. The patient will still receive Medicare benefits for other disorders. Most states have Medicaid hospice benefits as well.