What insurance companies does Ave Maria Hospice work with?

Your exact plan matters more than the company name

An insurance company may sell several plans with different networks and benefit rules. Ask the hospice and insurer to verify the plan named on the patient’s card, including the network and any necessary approval. The Texas Office of Public Insurance Counsel explains that using a provider outside your network can increase your costs or leave services unpaid.

• Have these details ready: The patient’s name, plan name, member number, group number if listed, and the insurer’s member-services telephone number.
• Ask for a clear answer: “For my particular plan, is this hospice in network, what approval is needed, and what might I have to pay?”

If you have Medicare Advantage

A Medicare Advantage card may look like private insurance, but hospice payment follows special Medicare rules. Original Medicare pays for the Medicare hospice benefit when an eligible Medicare Advantage member elects hospice. Ask how your plan’s other benefits and prescriptions will be coordinated, and discuss any premium or coverage questions before making a change to your plan.

If you have Texas Medicaid or more than one plan

Tell the team if the patient has Medicaid alongside Medicare or another policy. Financial eligibility, hospice enrollment, and payment coordination need to be reviewed together. Texas has specific procedures for people who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, including residents of nursing facilities. Having both cards ready helps the team identify the right questions from the beginning.

What the benefits review should explain

Ask for plain-language answers you can share with the people helping you. Do not assume that “covered” means there can never be a bill. Your plan may apply cost-sharing or require approval for certain services. An insurance representative can explain the policy; your hospice can explain how its proposed care plan fits those rules.

• Services and costs: Ask about hospice visits, prescriptions, equipment, supplies, and any deductible or copayment.
• Care outside the hospice: Ask who should arrange outside appointments and who to call before obtaining a new service.
• A written record: Keep the benefits summary and authorization details with the date and reference number of your call.

Still gathering information is a good reason to call

You can start by saying that your family is exploring options. Tell us the community where care would take place and whether you are considering care at home or in a facility. If you are comparing providers, ask each one the same coverage questions. The goal is to help you choose a workable next step with a clearer understanding of the costs.