PATIENT ALERT

Important Patient Hospice Information

March 2, 2023 E

If you are approached by a provider offering hospice care services or someone recommending a particular company, make sure that you understand the benefits of hospice care and how it may affect your current care. If you receive your primary care through Gila River Health Care, the first step we recommend is always a discussion with your Gila River Health Care primary care doctor.

In general, hospice care involves the care, comfort and quality of life for a person with a serious illness, and should be considered by patients who are approaching the end of life. Anyone considering a change to hospice care, however, must be aware that it can limit other care, treatments or services that may otherwise be available.

If you or a family member is enrolled in hospice without a full explanation, or without consulting your primary care doctor, we recommend that you contact your Gila River Health Care provider to discuss whether hospice is the right choice for the care you need.

If you were offered gifts or incentives to receive hospice services or to refer your friends and family for hospice services, we encourage you to immediately contact Purchased Referred Care at (602) 528-5000. Gila River Health Care staff will be happy to provide you the information you may need to make these important health care decisions.