About hospice care
Who we are
and how we help
Goodwin Hospice is here to walk with you. As a not-for-profit provider, we focus on people, not profit. We believe in thoughtful, holistic care that honors each person’s experience while supporting loved ones with honesty, clarity and heart.
Understanding hospice and palliative care
Hospice care supports individuals with serious illness by focusing on comfort and quality of life. It includes physical, emotional and spiritual support, typically when a person is no longer seeking curative treatment.
Palliative care offers similar comfort-focused support. The main difference is that it can begin earlier, even alongside treatment. Both services are about helping people feel at ease, connected and well-supported.
At Goodwin Hospice, we specialize in providing end-of-life care. We believe it’s more than offering comfort. It’s choosing how you want to live.
We’re here when you need us
Whether you have questions or need to speak with someone today, our team is ready to help.
Common questions about hospice care
Hospice can feel unfamiliar at first. These are some of the most common questions we hear from individuals and families.
When is hospice recommended?
Typically, hospice is designed for people with a life expectancy of six months or less, and it’s best to start exploring hospice as soon as you’re even considering the need for it. People often wait for hospice until their very final days, though research shows that those who seek hospice care sooner enjoy more comfort and time as they approach the end of life.
How does hospice care work?
Hospice care offers a team-oriented approach to providing comfort and support to people with terminal illnesses. The focus is on comfort and quality of life, helping patients and their loved ones make the most of their remaining time. Hospice care is arguably the most patient-centered care you will find. And many don’t realize loved ones are included in the care.
What services does hospice care include?
Hospice services include pain management and symptom control, personal care, social work services, counseling, spiritual support, bereavement services, support from a wide swath of volunteers and 24/7 on-call nursing support. Additionally, Goodwin Hospice offers a wide variety of unique services, including pet companionship, end-of-life doulas, massage therapy, Full Circle Aftercare and visits from Threshold Choir singers.
How do you pay for hospice care?
Goodwin Hospice is covered under Medicare, Medicaid and most private health insurance plans.
What is the difference between at-home hospice care vs. a hospice care facility?
With at-home hospice care, patients receive end-of-life care wherever they call home (e.g. private household, assisted living community, nursing home, etc.), surrounded by loved ones. A hospice care facility is a dedicated medical facility where patients can stay to receive end-of-life care in a more structured setting.
Does hospice include 24-hour in-home care?
Hospice care does not include 24-hour in-home care, since the day-to-day care falls to the patient’s loved ones. However, there are some circumstances in which 24-hour care may be provided for a short time when the situation calls for it, such as for pain management.
How long will insurance cover hospice care?
Insurance coverage for hospice care varies depending on your plan, but most policies, including Medicare, provide coverage for a set number of benefit periods. For Medicare, this includes two 90-day periods followed by an unlimited number of 60-day periods, with ongoing recertification required. Private insurance policies may offer similar coverage, often with different criteria and time limits, so it’s important to check your specific plan to understand the details.
Resources for you and your loved ones
We’ve gathered information and guidance to help you feel informed and supported throughout your journey with hospice.
Provides resources and advocacy for families seeking in-home care and hospice services.
Fairfax County’s Family Caregiver Support Program connects caregivers with local services, tools and support groups.
Fairfax County’s Golden Gazette shares resources and guidance for navigating grief and loss.
CaringInfo offers a helpful overview of hospice and palliative care, including how to access and understand your options.
Find & compare providers near you.
Hospice stories from The Good Life blog
Discover stories, guidance and insight from experts, Goodwin employees and hospice professionals.
April 1, 2025
What is the Difference Between Palliative Care and Hospice Care?
Read this articleExplanation of the key differences between palliative care and hospice care. Find out how to choose the best option for your particular needs.
March 31, 2025
What to Say to Someone in Hospice Care
Read this articleWhat to say (and what not to say) to someone in hospice care. Find out how to talk and what to do during this difficult time.
February 20, 2025
What Services Are Included in Hospice Care?
Read this articleAn explanation of what services you can expect to have access to when initiating hospice care.
February 12, 2025
When Is Hospice Recommended?
Read this articleAn explanation of when to initiate hospice care services, including key indicators it’s time to start treatment, and common questions about hospice.
January 31, 2025
Who is Eligible for Hospice Care?
Read this articleAn explanation of who qualifies for hospice care, including medical requirements, insurance qualifications and how to start the process.
January 21, 2025
How Long Can You Receive Hospice Care?
Read this articleAn explanation of how long hospice care really lasts. Find out what happens after six months and how to continue care through recertification.
