Hospice and palliative care share a comfort-first philosophy but differ in important ways. Here's a clear breakdown.
Timing, prognosis, and treatment goals
The clearest difference lies in when each begins and what treatment continues. Palliative care can start at the moment of a serious diagnosis, at any stage, and runs alongside treatments meant to cure or control the disease, there's no prognosis requirement. Hospice begins only when a person is terminally ill, certified by two doctors as having about 6 months or less to live, and has chosen to stop curative treatment in favor of comfort. Think of it this way: palliative care is the broad umbrella, and hospice is the specific form reserved for the end-of-life stage. Both prioritize comfort, dignity, and quality of life.
How coverage and costs differ
Coverage is another major difference. Hospice has a dedicated Medicare Part A benefit that covers nearly all related care, medications, equipment, and team services, at no cost beyond up to $5 per drug and 5% for respite. Palliative care, by contrast, is billed like any other medical service under Medicare Parts A, B, and D, meaning standard deductibles and coinsurance apply. That's where a Medigap plan becomes valuable, covering the cost-sharing palliative care leaves behind. To understand how your specific coverage handles each, and avoid surprise bills, call 1-800-MEDIGAP for a free explanation.