Hospice Care

Elderly woman in a wheelchair with a caregiver in purple scrubs smiling and interacting at home.

number of counties where we provide hospice care

number of hospice in-patient units

1 in 5

number of hospice patients in Florida receiving Empath care

At Empath Health, hospice is a sacred trust. Across Florida, our seven programs provide expert medical, emotional, and spiritual support wherever it's needed — at home, in a hospice house, or another setting.

Guided by our Full Life Care philosophy, we honor each person's goals and values while easing pain, supporting caregivers, and creating space for connection, comfort, and choice. At life's most tender moments, Empath is there — ensuring no one walks alone.

Empath Hospice

Serving Polk, Hardee, and Highland Counties

Play Video

What is hospice care, and when is it appropriate?

Hospice care is specialized support for individuals with a life-limiting illness who are no longer seeking curative treatment. It focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life — typically when life expectancy is six months or less. Hospice care can be provided at home, in a hospice house, or in other care settings, and it’s about making the most of every moment.

What services are included in Empath’s hospice care?

Our care teams provide pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, caregiver education, bereavement services, complementary therapies, and assistance with daily needs. Care is delivered by an interdisciplinary team that includes nurses, aides, physicians, social workers, chaplains, and trained volunteers.

How is hospice care funded, and will it cost my family anything?

Hospice care is typically covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. Empath Health is committed to providing care regardless of financial status — thanks to generous donors, we are proud to offer uncompensated care for those in need, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to dignity at life’s end.

What makes Empath’s hospice care unique?

Empath Health operates seven hospice programs across Florida — each deeply embedded in its community and guided by the shared mission of Full Life Care. Our teams support not just the patient, but their entire circle of care, providing a level of compassion, coordination, and presence that goes far beyond the basics.

Can I refer someone to hospice, and how do I know it’s time?

Anyone can initiate a hospice referral — family members, caregivers, or healthcare providers. If someone is facing frequent hospitalizations, increasing pain, or a decline in function, it may be time to consider hospice. Our team is available to provide information and help families understand their options.

How can I support hospice care at Empath?

There are many ways to help. Volunteers bring companionship, legacy work, and caregiver relief. Donors make it possible to offer music therapy, grief care, and other services that go beyond insurance. Colleagues and board members carry the mission forward each day — ensuring that no one walks through this stage of life alone.

What happens if someone’s condition improves on hospice?

Hospice is designed to support quality of life — and in some cases, patients stabilize or improve with this focused care. When that happens, they may no longer meet eligibility criteria and can "graduate" from hospice. This is a positive step, and they're always welcome to return to hospice care later if their condition changes. Our team will continue to provide guidance and help coordinate the next phase of support.

Is hospice only for the final days or weeks of life?

Not at all. Hospice is available for months — not just days — and starting earlier can lead to better symptom control, more meaningful moments, and less stress for families. Patients and caregivers often say they wish they'd started sooner. Empath's teams provide ongoing support, helping people live fully through every chapter.

Can hospice care be provided in assisted living or nursing facilities?

Yes. Empath's hospice teams regularly serve patients in assisted living communities, nursing homes, and other residential settings. We collaborate closely with facility staff to ensure care is coordinated, personalized, and aligned with the patient's goals — all while supporting their loved ones, too.

Curved garden path surrounded by lush greenery and blooming red, pink, and yellow flowers in a peaceful setting

Mother with two young children sitting on a couch using a tablet in a cozy home setting.

Elderly woman smiling while sitting on a brown leather couch wearing glasses, a blue dress, and a white shawl.

Elderly woman smiling while looking at a smartphone held by a masked caregiver with a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"On a very busy day, a nurse helped us get my mom outside — something so important to her after 11 days in the hospital. They wheeled her entire bed outside and we stayed there for two hours. It was such a beautiful memory for our family. Every single person we encountered was calm, patient, and intentional. The way they cared for my mom, repositioning her gently, keeping her clean and comfortable, and supporting our family with such steady compassion, was more than we ever expected. You can tell they love what they do. They are perfectly placed in their roles."

"My experience with Hospice of Marion County was great. I live in Utah and my aunt lived in Florida so I wasn't involved with her care in person, but long distance. She had a wonderful nurse that kept me well informed and included me on decisions & plan of care that benefited my aunt greatly. The whole Hospice team was always informative and caring and didn't mind my frequent calls at any time. I feel blessed that she was in their care."

"I cannot extend my family's gratitude enough for the care and compassion my father and our family were given at the Grace Davis Hall House. The staff there is second to none, and we will forever be grateful… words cannot express how lovely everyone is at your facility. Everyone has really made a difference in our lives the last couple weeks. Forever grateful."

"Words cannot fully capture the immense appreciation I feel for the respect and dignity you afforded my husband throughout his hospice journey. Your attentiveness and gentle approach made a significant difference- not only to his comfort, but also in easing our family's emotional burden. The kindness and empathy you showed were a beacon of solace and strength for all of us. Your exceptional service is a testament to the profound impact that compassionate caregiving can have on families navigating the end-of-life journey."

"The staff at Suncoast Hospice at St. Joseph's are phenomenal. My most sincere gratitude goes out our nurse, what a kind, compassionate, caring young man. God bless you and staff and thank you for your respect, your graciousness, and for your love for this difficult profession. There's a special place in heaven for you all. And, when you get there, stop by and see us we'll thank you again. God bless you and yours!"

join the

movement

volunteer

give

partner

apply

empath hospice care

programs + locations

Empath Hospice

Empath Hospice

Hospice of Marion County

Hospice of Marion County

Suncoast Hospice

Suncoast Hospice

Suncoast Hospice of Hillsborough

Suncoast Hospice of Hillsborough

Tidewell Hospice

Tidewell Hospice

Trustbridge Hospice

Trustbridge Hospice

frequently asked questions

in their own words

movement

useful
resources

meet the
empath family

empath hospice care

programs + locations

Empath Hospice

Empath Hospice

Hospice of Marion County

Hospice of Marion County

Suncoast Hospice

Suncoast Hospice

Suncoast Hospice of Hillsborough

Suncoast Hospice of Hillsborough

Tidewell Hospice

Tidewell Hospice

Trustbridge Hospice

Trustbridge Hospice

frequently asked questions

in their own words

movement

usefulresources

meet the empath family

useful
resources

meet the
empath family