Hospice Knowledge Center
What is the hospice election statement?
The hospice election statement is the legal document by which a Medicare beneficiary (or authorized representative) elects to receive care under the Medicare Hospice Benefit for a terminal illness. It carries significant reimbursement and audit implications.
Election statement, in one sentence
The election statement is signed by the beneficiary (or authorized representative), designates a hospice provider, identifies the effective date, and acknowledges that Medicare will not cover treatments aimed at curing the terminal illness while the election is in effect.
Required content
Per 42 CFR §418.24, the election statement must identify the hospice, the effective date, an acknowledgement that the beneficiary was provided information about waiving certain Medicare coverage, and a beneficiary/representative signature.
The election-statement addendum
Since 2020, CMS requires an addendum that lists conditions, items, drugs, and services the hospice has determined to be unrelated to the terminal illness and therefore not covered by hospice — for use by outside providers, if requested.
Revocation
A beneficiary may revoke the hospice election at any time, in writing, filed with the hospice. Revocation cancels the current benefit period. If the beneficiary later re-elects hospice, they resume with the next unused benefit period.
Frequently asked questions
Who can sign the election statement?
What is the effective date?
How does the addendum work?
Sources & further reading
Educational content only. Not a substitute for your organization’s policies, your medical director’s clinical judgment, or current CMS guidance.
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