The purpose of this General Information System (GIS) message is to provide information and guidance on the coordination of hospice services.

This guidance provides, in addition to other information, that when a Medicaid fee-for-service recipient is in receipt of hospice services, the LDSS is responsible for coordinating services and financial obligations with the hospice provider, particularly for personal care/consumer directed personal assistance services (CDPAS) and DME and supplies.

Hospice services may be provided in the home, a nursing home, assisted living facility, free standing hospice, hospital or hospice residence; and must be provided according to a written plan of care and are focused on easing the symptoms rather than curing the disease. The individual and family receive medical, psychological and social services, and bereavement and pastoral care related to the individual’s terminal diagnosis.  See GIS for more information in addition to a list of available services.  It also provides that the following Medicaid services/programs are not allowed in combination with the hospice benefit:
• Private Duty Nursing
• Certified Home Health Agency Services
• Adult Day Health Care Service
Click here for GIS 23 MA/11