Do I Have to Use a "Preferred" Hospice Provider?

Can I Choose My Hospice Provider — Even If the Hospital or Facility Has a "Preferred" One?
Understanding Your Rights and Options When It Comes to End-of-Life Care

When the time comes to consider hospice care — whether for yourself or a loved one — the decisions can feel overwhelming. Emotions are high, the pace of medical decisions often feels rushed, and information can be incomplete or even confusing. One common point of confusion is this:

“The hospital says they have a preferred hospice provider. Do I have to use them?”

The short and clear answer is: NO. You have the right to choose your hospice provider.

This choice is not just a courtesy — it’s protected by federal law. If you or a loved one are eligible for hospice care under Medicare (and most patients are), the law guarantees your right to select any Medicare-certified hospice agency, regardless of what hospital or facility staff may suggest.

Why Do Facilities Mention “Preferred Providers”?

Hospitals, nursing homes, rehab facilities, and assisted livings often have relationships with certain hospice agencies. These “preferred providers” might have referral agreements in place, which can help with things like paperwork or logistics. But here’s the key point:

A preferred provider is just that — preferred by the facility, not by the patient.

You are not obligated to use the hospice agency they recommend. In fact, you should never feel pressured to do so.

You Deserve Care That Reflects Your Values

Hospice is not one-size-fits-all. Choosing a hospice is a deeply personal decision. It’s about more than medical care — it’s about compassion, support, comfort, and honoring the patient’s journey.

Different hospice providers offer different levels of:

• Staff continuity and availability

• Communication with families

• Support for caregivers

• Specialized services (e.g., dementia care, veterans' programs, spiritual support)

• Philosophy of care

• Additional Life Enrichment services

You deserve a team that aligns with your values, listens to your concerns, and provides care in a way that makes you feel seen, supported, and safe.

What to Say If You're Being Steered to Another Provider

Sometimes families are told, directly or indirectly, that using another hospice could slow down the discharge process, delay services, or make things more complicated.

Here’s what you can say in those moments:

“Thank you. We’ve chosen a hospice that best fits our needs. Please send the referral to [Your Chosen Hospice Name and Contact Info].”

You don’t need to explain further. It’s your right — and a good hospice will take it from there and help ensure a smooth transition.

What If You’re Being Pressured?

If you feel your right to choose is being ignored or dismissed, you’re not alone — and you do have options. You can:

• Contact your chosen hospice directly. They can step in to advocate for you and manage communication with the facility.

• Call your local Long-Term Care Ombudsman for assistance.

• If you're on Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE to report concerns or get support.

Bottom Line: The Choice Belongs to You

Hospice is about quality of life. It’s about dignity, compassion, and care that feels human — not transactional. That begins with the right to choose who provides that care.

At the end of life, families shouldn’t have to fight for their voice to be heard. Fortunately, the law is on your side.

You have the right to choose your hospice. Make sure it’s one that will walk with you, listen to you, and care for you like family.

💜 Need Guidance or Support? We’re Here.

At Devotion Hospice, we believe in honoring your right to choose care that feels right for you. Whether you're just beginning to explore hospice or looking to make a change, our nurse-led team is here to walk alongside you — with compassion, clarity, and support every step of the way.