Question 1

What is respite care and how can it help my family?

Accepted Answer

Respite care provides temporary relief for family caregivers by having a trained professional step in to care for your loved one. Whether you need a few hours to rest, run errands, or simply recharge, respite care ensures your loved one continues to receive compassionate, quality care while you take a well-deserved break. It is available for both home health and hospice patients in Utah.

Question 2

What is the difference between home health and hospice care?

Accepted Answer

Home health care is skilled medical care provided at home for patients who are recovering from illness, surgery, or injury, or who need ongoing management of a chronic condition. The goal is to improve or maintain health. Hospice care is a specialized type of care for patients with a terminal illness who have chosen to focus on comfort and quality of life rather than curative treatment. Both types of care are delivered in the comfort of home.

Question 3

Does Medicare cover home health or hospice care in Utah?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Medicare Part A and Part B cover home health services when ordered by a physician, provided by a Medicare-certified agency like Ability Home Health & Hospice, and deemed medically necessary. The patient must also be considered homebound. For hospice, Medicare Part A covers care for patients certified by a physician as having a terminal prognosis of six months or less who choose comfort-focused care. Hospice Medicare coverage includes medications, medical equipment, and support services related to the terminal diagnosis. Contact us at (385) 287-1311 to discuss your specific coverage.

Question 4

How much does home health or hospice care cost in Utah?

Accepted Answer

Many families pay little to nothing out of pocket for home health or hospice care. Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans cover the majority — or all — of the costs. Home health services are covered when medically necessary and ordered by a physician. Hospice care under Medicare has no copays for services related to the terminal diagnosis. The actual cost depends on your insurance plan and individual circumstances. Call us at (385) 287-1311 and we will help you understand your specific coverage and costs.

Question 5

Who qualifies for hospice care in Utah and when is the right time to start?

Accepted Answer

Hospice eligibility is determined by a physician certification that a patient has a terminal prognosis of six months or less if the illness follows its natural course, and the patient chooses to focus on comfort rather than curative treatment. The right time to start is often earlier than families expect — studies show that patients who begin hospice sooner experience better quality of life and more meaningful time with loved ones. If you are wondering whether it is time, that question itself is often a sign that a conversation with our care team could help. Call us at (385) 287-1311.

Question 6

Can home health or hospice care be provided in an assisted living facility or nursing home in Utah?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in many cases home health or hospice services can be provided in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, or other residential settings across Utah. Our care team coordinates with facility staff to ensure seamless, comprehensive care for your loved one. Contact us to discuss your specific situation and we will help determine what is possible.

Question 7

How quickly can home health or hospice care begin in Utah?

Accepted Answer

We work to begin care as quickly as possible after receiving a physician referral and completing an initial assessment. In many cases, care can begin within 24 to 48 hours of referral. For urgent hospice needs, we can often respond even faster. Contact us at (385) 287-1311 and we will work with you and your physician to get started as soon as possible.

Question 8

What happens during a free consultation and how do I get started?

Accepted Answer

During a free consultation, a member of our care team will speak with you and your family to understand your loved one's situation, answer your questions, and help you determine whether home health or hospice care may be appropriate. There is no obligation, and we are here to provide information and support — not to pressure you into any decision. To get started, simply call us at (385) 287-1311 or fill out our online contact form. We can also help coordinate the referral process with your physician.

Question 9

How do referrals work?

Accepted Answer

Referrals for home health and hospice care typically come from a physician, hospital discharge planner, or other healthcare provider. Families can also contact us directly and we can help coordinate the referral process with your physician. Call us at (385) 287-1311 to get started.

Question 10

Do you serve my city?

Accepted Answer

Ability HHH serves a wide range of communities across Northern Utah, including cities in Weber County, Davis County, Salt Lake County, Utah County, Wasatch County, and Juab County. Visit our Service Areas page to see the full list of cities we serve, or call us to confirm coverage in your area.

Question 11

Does Ability HHH accept Medicare and insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are Medicare and Medicaid certified and accept most private insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Humana, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, SelectHealth, and many more. Coverage details vary by plan and individual circumstances. Contact us and we can help you understand your options and work with your insurance provider.

Question 12

Who is involved in the care plan?

Accepted Answer

Care plans are developed in coordination with the patient, family members, and the patient's physician. Depending on the type of care, the team may include skilled nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, social workers, chaplains, and home health aides. We believe in a team approach that keeps the patient and family at the center.

Question 13

What support is available for family caregivers?

Accepted Answer

We recognize that family caregivers carry an enormous responsibility. Our team provides education, guidance, and emotional support to family members throughout the care process. For hospice patients, respite care is available to give caregivers a temporary break. Bereavement support is also available to families following a loss.

Question 14

What is hospice care?

Accepted Answer

Hospice care is specialized medical care for patients with a terminal illness who have chosen to focus on comfort and quality of life rather than curative treatment. It is a philosophy of care that prioritizes dignity, pain management, emotional support, and family guidance — all delivered in the comfort of home.

Question 15

Does choosing hospice mean giving up hope?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. Hospice care is about living as fully and comfortably as possible. Many families find that hospice allows their loved one to spend meaningful time at home, surrounded by family, with their symptoms well managed and their dignity preserved.

Question 16

What should we do in an emergency?

Accepted Answer

If this is a medical emergency, please call 911 immediately. Our services are not designed for emergency response. For non-emergency questions or concerns about your care, please contact our team at (385) 287-1311.

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