Never used in years. Hospice said 1 time every 6 months for 5 days. Is this true? I have been taking care of my 94 year old father in law for 5 years. He has been on Hospice since Sept. I am getting very tired but doing my best. They said I can use respite for 5 days every 6 months. I had someone else tell me that you can use every month for 5 days. I am just trying to find out the truth. I really need to take a break. My husband and I do not have any family members to help us. Thank You
http://www.nhpco.org/sites/default/files/public/regulatory/Respite_Tip_sheet.pdf
HOW OFTEN CAN A CAREGIVER ASK FOR RESPITE CARE?
• More than one respite period (of no more than 5 days each) is allowable in a single billing period.
• If the beneficiary dies under inpatient respite care, the day of death is paid at the inpatient respite
care rate.
• Frequent use of respite care for one patient or unusual patterns of respite care may be a red flag to
your Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC). Documentation must justify the reason for the
caregiver relief. (ie: 5 days of respite with a one day break and another 5 days of respite)