You Have the Right to Choose Your Hospice
When hospice comes up, families are often handed a single name and a form to sign. Many never learn they had a choice. This page explains — in plain language — how hospice selection actually works for Arizona families.
The choice belongs to the patient and family
Hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and case managers may suggest a hospice — and often work closely with one — but the final choice of hospice provider always belongs to the patient and family. You are never required to accept the first name you're given.
You can ask for more than one option
It's reasonable — and common — to ask a discharge planner or case manager for several hospice options rather than a single referral. You can also research licensed agencies on your own before deciding. Arizona has more than 270 actively licensed hospice agencies to consider.
Medicare supports your choice
If your loved one uses the Medicare hospice benefit, you may choose any Medicare-certified hospice that serves your area. Under Medicare rules, a person may have the right to change hospice providers, including once during each benefit period. Families should confirm current rules with Medicare, the hospice agency, or their care team.
Arizona licenses hospice agencies
Hospice service agencies in Arizona are licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS). Checking that an agency holds an active ADHS license is a reasonable first step when comparing options — every agency in the SeniorVue directory held an active license at the most recent data update.
You can change your mind
Choosing a hospice is not a one-time, locked-in decision. If communication breaks down or the support isn't what your family expected, you can raise concerns with the agency — and if needed, transfer to a different hospice.
Making the choice a real one
A right to choose only matters if you know your options. A SeniorVue social worker can help you compare licensed agencies, understand what questions to ask, and coordinate a family-directed referral to the hospice you choose — free, non-clinical, and never tied to any provider.
SeniorVue is an independent family advocate providing non-clinical care navigation support. All clinical care decisions are made by the patient, family, physicians, and the hospice care team. This page is general consumer information, not legal or medical advice.
Sources
- Medicare.gov — Hospice care coverage and provider choice
- Medicare Care Compare — Find and compare hospice providers
- Arizona Department of Health Services — Provider licensing (AZ Care Check)
This page is general consumer information, not legal or medical advice. Confirm current rules and details directly with official sources and your care team.