How do I qualify for services?
Sometimes it is difficult to determine what services are needed.  By calling into the main number 805-963-6794 and asking to speak to someone about care at home, we can begin to assess how we might best support you through one of our programs.  Please consult our side menu under the “programs and Services” heading to learn more about which of our programs will work best for you.

How do the services get paid for?
Once we assess how we can best serve you, we will investigate coverage by Medicare or other insurance(s) you may have.  If there is no coverage we will explore other options including private pay, a sliding scale fee, or qualifying for grant care. We are a non-profit and our mission is to provide care for those in need, including those unable to pay.

What is hospice care?
Hospice care provides family-centered, compassionate care to terminally ill patients with the goal of allowing the patient to live as fully and comfortably as possible. Hospice cares for the entire family, providing support not only to the patient, but to the patient's caregivers and family members as well. Services provided by Hospice are interdisciplinary and may include registered nurse visits, a 24-hour on-call nurse, home health aides, social workers, counselors, spiritual and bereavement support, volunteer services, and consultations with healthcare professionals. We provide a comprehensive approach that includes support for the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of care. At all times, the patient directs the plan of care. Click here to learn more about our Hospice Care Services

Who is eligible for hospice care?
Anyone who is challenged with a life threatening diagnosis is eligible for hospice care.  To be eligible, the patient needs a physician referral and is generally considered to have a prognosis of six months or less. Family members are eligible for supportive services and bereavement counseling is open to anyone having experienced a loss.

How are hospice services paid for?
Hospice is 100% covered by Medicare, Medi-Cal, and most insurances.  There is no direct cost to you for your care at home.  Included in your hospice benefits are the costs for all medications, equipment and interventions related to the diagnosis that makes you eligible for hospice.

What is palliative care?
Palliative care, also called comfort care, is primarily directed at providing relief to a seriously-ill person through symptom management and relief of pain. The goal is not focused on a cure, but rather to provide comfort and maintain the highest possible quality of life for as long as life remains. Our approach to palliative care also address mental health and spiritual needs. The focus is not on death, but on compassionate specialized care for the living. We utilize an interdisciplinary team model that provides support for the whole person and those who are sharing the person's journey in love. Click here to learn more about our Palliative Care Team

When is Home Care appropriate?
Home Care is generally provided to persons who find it very difficult to leave their home for medical care. Nurses, physical therapists, and other clinicians will come to the home to assist someone to recover from an injury or medical condition. Services have to qualify as medically necessary.  These interventions average about 60 minutes several times a week. The goal of home care is recovery, regaining independence, or learning to manage a medical condition.  Click here to learn more about our Home Care Services

What services do Visiting Care & Companions (VCC) provide?
Should a person need non-medical assistance such as bathing, grooming, light meal preparation or would benefit from some companionship, Visiting Care & Companions can bring the support of highly qualified caregivers.  VCC has a variety of services available and can customize a plan to meet your unique needs.  Click here to learn more about our Personal Care program