Hospice care is designed for an expected death, so the process afterward is usually calm and well organized. Whether the death happens at home or in a hospice facility, the first call is to hospice, not 911.
Death at home under hospice care
- Call the hospice agency’s 24-hour number. A hospice nurse will come to confirm the death and notify the physician.
- Take the time you need. Once hospice has been called, there is no need to hurry. Family members often gather, say goodbye, and follow religious or cultural customs before the funeral home arrives.
- Tell the nurse which funeral home you have chosen. Often the nurse calls the funeral home for you. Many families choose the funeral home in advance and give its name to hospice when care begins; if you have not, you can choose now.
- Ask about medications and equipment. The hospice team will explain how to dispose of medications and arrange to collect medical equipment.
Death in a hospice facility
Staff confirm the death, notify the physician and contact the funeral home you name. Ask whether there is a time limit for the family to visit and when the funeral home is expected.
Bereavement support
Medicare-certified hospice programs provide bereavement support to families, typically for up to a year after the death. Ask the hospice social worker or chaplain what is available; support groups and individual counseling are common. See also our grief resources.
Next steps with the funeral home
- The funeral home will set up an arrangement meeting. Ask for the General Price List. See your rights when planning a funeral.
- Bring the information needed for the death certificate. See documents a funeral home may need.
- If the person was a veteran, bring the discharge papers (DD214). See veterans funeral benefits.
This page is not medical advice. In an emergency, or if you are unsure whether someone has died, call 911. Editorial policy.