There are four levels of hospice care as defined by Medicare. They allow the hospice program to care for the patient in the setting that best meets the needs of the patient and family. Some or all of these care options may be used during a patient's hospice care.

Routine Care: The patient continues to live at home and receive hospice services there. The family is supported in providing the care necessary for their loved one.

Continuous Care: Skilled nursing services are provided in the patient's home to help manage a patient crisis.

Inpatient Care: This care is provided in a facility (hospital, hospice residence or nursing home) for symptoms or crises that cannot be managed in the patient's home. This level of care is provided for a limited period of time, as determined by the physician and hospice.

Inpatient Care: This service is provided in a facility and is designed to give caregivers a rest from caring for the patient. Respite care is limited to five days and nights at a time. This service is often used to provide a break so that caregivers can participate in other family activities, such as holiday celebrations, or just to relieve a tired caregiver for a few days.

The hospice or the attending physician determines what level of care is appropriate, and all types of care must be approved by the hospice. Not all patients use or need all levels of care, yet all are available  regardless of a patient's insurance coverage or ability to pay.