The continuing evolution of medicare hospice policy

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Robinson, Chester A.; Hoyer, Thomas; Blackford, Carol
• 署名单位: East Tennessee State University
• 刊物名称: PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION REVIEW
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0033-3352
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-6210.2006.00702.x
• 发表日期: 2007
• 页码: 127-134
• 关键词: of-life care; end; cost; ILL

摘要

This case study traces the creation and evolution Of Medicare hospice policy. The Medicare hospice benefit, created in 1982, emphasizes palliative rather than curative care. It focuses on quality of life for the dying patient and family and encompasses medical, psychological, and spiritual care. Because no standard hospice care practices existed before this benefit was implemented. Medicare rules almost exclusively dictated the structure and delivery of services. Despite initial concerns about low use, spending averaged 17 percent Per year between 1991 and 200 1, largely driven by increased enrollment, covered days, services provided, and inflation. A rich accumulation of research studies and analyses of specific aspects of the hospice program provides an opportunity for a retrospective analysis of the Program genesis, impact on health care delivery, and implications for future policy decisions.