What is hospice care?

Hospice is a philosophy of care that treats the person rather than the disease and focuses on quality of life. It surrounds the patient and family with a team of professionals who address not only physical distress but emotional and spiritual needs as well.

Who pays for hospice care?

Hospice care is 100% covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. If the patient has Medicare and meets hospice eligibility requirements, there is no deductible and no copayment.

Hospice is not a place — it's a service. Spirit Hospice brings physical, emotional, and spiritual care and support to wherever our patients live, including private homes, assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities, and other appropriate settings.

When is it time for hospice care?

Signs that it may be time for hospice include frequent ER visits or hospital admissions, a decline in the ability to perform daily activities (eating, dressing, walking), progressive weight loss, changes in mental abilities, or a significant increase in falls.

Is hospice only for cancer patients?

No. While many hospice patients have cancer, the majority today have other life-limiting illnesses such as end-stage heart, lung, or kidney disease, or Alzheimer's and other dementias.

Can I keep my own doctor when choosing hospice?

Yes. Your family doctor or specialist is encouraged to remain engaged in your care. Spirit Hospice's physician works closely with your existing doctor to determine the specific medical needs addressed in your personalized plan of care.

Can you leave hospice care once you start?

Yes. A person may leave the hospice program at any time for a variety of reasons, such as resuming aggressive curative treatment or pursuing experimental measures.

What counties does Spirit Hospice of Georgia serve?

Spirit Hospice serves patients and families across 23 counties in the greater Atlanta metro and North Georgia regions: Bartow, Catoosa, Chattooga, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Dade, Dawson, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Floyd, Forsyth, Fulton, Gordon, Gwinnett, Henry, Murray, Newton, Pickens, Rockdale, Walker, and Whitfield.

How do I contact Spirit Hospice of Georgia?

Spirit Hospice of Georgia is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us at 404-551-4205 or email info@spirithospicega.com. Our Marietta office is located at 1880 West Oak Parkway, Unit 104, Marietta, GA 30064. Our Calhoun office is at 1314 US-41, Calhoun, GA 30701.

Does Spirit Hospice provide bereavement support after a loved one passes?

Yes. Spirit Hospice's commitment to your family does not end at the time of passing. We provide grief counseling and bereavement support for up to 13 months after the loss of your loved one.