Congress recently introduced a bill, which is co-sponsored by Representative John Carney and Senator Christopher Coons that would strengthen and protect Medicare hospice programs.

            At a time when the hospice community is facing severe reimbursement cuts and regulatory challenges, the HELP Hospice Act would grant some measure of relief from financial pressures and address practical ways to ensure that hospices continue to deliver high quality end-of-life care.

            First, the bill would establish a payment reform demonstration program to evaluate any prospective payment revisions to hospice. Second, it would increase the frequency of certification surveys to enhance the oversight of all hospice organizations. Third, it would amend the face-to-face encounter requirement to reflect operational realities and the needs of the patients and families hospice serves.

             The reasonable changes outlined in the HELP Hospice Act may offer relief from financial pressures and ensure that Delaware Hospice can maintain the scope of services and support it offers to our community. It will also ensure that any payment recommendations are well tested across the hospice community so that programs are not negatively impacted beyond their ability to serve the patients and families that depend on them.

Through the generous support of the community, Delaware Hospice, the only not-for-profit hospice provider in the state, offers comprehensive care and support to families and individuals with life-limiting illnesses.

           Delaware Hospice urges the community and local government to consider the value that hospice care offers to our community, and show support for the HELP Hospice Act.