What VITAS Healthcare Is

VITAS Healthcare is a for-profit hospice provider that operates in multiple states and serves patients with terminal illnesses. It is one of the largest hospice companies in the United States and is owned by Chemed Corporation. VITAS provides end-of-life care in patients' homes, nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and inpatient hospice centers.

VITAS differs from a nonprofit hospice in its ownership structure and business model, but the core services—pain management, symptom relief, emotional support, and spiritual care—are similar to what other hospice providers offer. The company employs nurses, doctors, social workers, chaplains, and aides who work together to manage a patient's comfort during the final stages of illness.

Like all Medicare-certified hospice providers, VITAS must meet federal standards for care quality and documentation. However, because it is a for-profit company, it operates under different financial incentives than nonprofit hospices. Understanding how VITAS works can help you decide whether it is the right fit for your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • VITAS is a for-profit hospice company that provides end-of-life care in homes, facilities, and inpatient centers across multiple states.
  • VITAS accepts Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, and uninsured patients, though coverage and out-of-pocket costs vary by state and plan.
  • A doctor must certify that a patient has six months or less to live before VITAS can begin care, and the patient or family must choose hospice over curative treatment.
  • VITAS provides nursing, medical equipment, medications, counseling, and bereavement support, with a care team that visits regularly and is available by phone 24/7.
  • You can switch to a different hospice provider at any time, and VITAS must transfer your records within one business day if you request it.

How to Start VITAS Hospice Care

To begin VITAS hospice, a doctor must first refer the patient. This usually happens when curative treatment is no longer working or the patient decides to focus on comfort instead of extending life. The doctor completes a referral form that includes the patient's diagnosis, prognosis, and reason for choosing hospice.

Once VITAS receives the referral, an intake coordinator contacts the patient or family to discuss the patient's medical history, current medications, living situation, and insurance. VITAS will verify whether the patient's insurance covers hospice and what the patient's out-of-pocket responsibility will be. If the patient is uninsured or underinsured, VITAS may still accept the case, though payment arrangements will need to be discussed.

A VITAS physician then reviews the medical records to confirm that the patient meets the six-month prognosis requirement. Once approved, a nurse visits the home or facility to complete an initial assessment, set up a care plan, and arrange for any medical equipment or medications the patient needs. Care typically begins within 24 to 48 hours of approval.

What Services VITAS Provides

VITAS provides a range of services designed to keep the patient comfortable and support the family. A registered nurse visits regularly—how often depends on the patient's condition, but can range from a few times per week to daily. The nurse manages pain and symptoms, monitors the patient's condition, adjusts medications as needed, and teaches the family how to provide basic care.

VITAS also provides medical equipment and supplies at no cost to the patient, including hospital beds, wheelchairs, oxygen, wound care supplies, and medications related to the terminal illness. A physician is available to the care team and can be consulted by phone or through a visit if the patient's condition changes. Social workers help the patient and family work through emotional and practical concerns, such as financial planning or family communication.

Spiritual care is available through chaplains or clergy of the patient's faith, and bereavement counseling is offered to the family for up to one year after the patient's death. VITAS also provides respite care in some locations, which allows a family caregiver to take a break while a trained aide stays with the patient for a short period.

A 24/7 on-call nurse is always available by phone to answer questions, manage urgent symptoms, or guide the family through the dying process. This means the family does not have to wait for a scheduled visit if a crisis occurs.

Insurance Coverage and Cost

VITAS accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. Medicare covers the full cost of hospice care for patients who are may be able to access, with no copayment or deductible for hospice-related services. Medicaid coverage varies by state; some states cover hospice fully, while others require a small copayment.

Private insurance coverage depends on the specific plan. Some plans cover hospice in full, while others require the patient to pay a percentage of the cost. VITAS will contact the insurance company during intake to find out exactly what is covered and what the patient's responsibility is.

For uninsured patients, VITAS may still provide care, but the patient or family will be responsible for payment. VITAS social workers can discuss payment plans or refer families to financial information programs in their area. Some patients may be able to access Medicaid retroactively if they meet income and asset limits.

It is important to understand that Medicare and Medicaid hospice benefits do not cover room and board if the patient is in a nursing facility or assisted living community. The facility itself charges for housing, and hospice covers only the medical care. VITAS does not charge for hospice services when Medicare or Medicaid is the primary payer, but other costs—such as facility fees or non-hospice medications—remain the patient's or family's responsibility.

Choosing VITAS Versus Other Hospice Providers

VITAS is one option among many hospice providers. Nonprofit hospices, smaller regional providers, and other for-profit companies all operate under the same Medicare standards, so the quality of medical care is regulated equally. The differences often come down to size, location, philosophy, and personal fit.

VITAS operates in most states and has large teams, which means more staff availability and potentially shorter wait times for visits. However, some families prefer smaller, nonprofit hospices that may feel more personalized or aligned with specific values. Your doctor can suggest local providers, or you can search the Medicare Hospice Compare tool on Medicare.gov to see which providers operate in your area and read patient and family feedback.

You have the right to choose any Medicare-certified hospice provider, and you can change providers at any time without penalty. If you decide to switch from VITAS to another hospice, VITAS must transfer your medical records within one business day. There is no cost to change providers, and your new hospice will contact you to begin care.

What Happens During VITAS Care

Once care begins, the VITAS team creates a personalized care plan based on the patient's medical needs, goals, and preferences. The plan is reviewed regularly and adjusted as the patient's condition changes. The patient and family are involved in all decisions about care, and the team respects the patient's wishes regarding pain management, resuscitation, and end-of-life decisions.

Regular visits from nurses, aides, and other team members follow a schedule set during intake. The patient can request additional visits if symptoms worsen or new concerns arise. The family receives education on how to recognize changes in the patient's condition and what to expect as the illness progresses. Many families find this guidance helpful in preparing emotionally and practically for the patient's death.

When the patient is close to death, VITAS provides comfort care, which focuses entirely on keeping the patient pain-free and as alert as possible. Medications are adjusted to manage symptoms like difficulty breathing, restlessness, or pain. The family is encouraged to spend time with the patient, and the VITAS team helps the family understand what is happening and how to say goodbye.

After the Patient's Death

After the patient dies, VITAS handles the when ready steps, such as pronouncing death (if the patient is at home) and notifying the doctor and funeral home. The family does not have to call 911 or go to the emergency room; VITAS coordinates these notifications. The patient's body is released to the funeral home of the family's choice.

VITAS provides bereavement support to the family for up to one year after death. This includes counseling, support groups, and educational materials about grief. Social workers and chaplains are available to help the family process their loss and adjust to life after the patient's death. Some families find this ongoing support valuable during a difficult time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use VITAS if I am still receiving treatment for my illness?

No. Choosing hospice means choosing comfort care over curative treatment. You must stop active treatment (such as chemotherapy or dialysis) to enroll in VITAS. However, VITAS can manage symptoms and side effects from past treatment, and some medications unrelated to the terminal illness may continue.

What if my condition improves and I no longer need hospice?

If your condition improves and your doctor believes you no longer meet the six-month prognosis, you can be discharged from hospice. You can return to curative treatment or regular medical care. If your condition worsens again later, you can re-enroll in hospice with VITAS or another provider.

Does VITAS provide care in nursing homes and assisted living?

Yes. VITAS works with nursing facilities and assisted living communities to provide hospice care to residents. The facility provides room and board, and VITAS provides medical care. You do not have to leave the facility to receive VITAS hospice services.

How do I know if VITAS operates in my area?

You can search VITAS's website or call their main line to ask about service areas in your state. You can also use the Medicare Hospice Compare tool on Medicare.gov to see all certified hospice providers near you and compare their locations and services.

What if I am unhappy with VITAS?

You can switch to a different hospice provider at any time. Contact your new provider, and they will handle the transfer of your records from VITAS. There is no penalty for changing providers, and your care will continue without interruption.