Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care is a national provider of hospice and palliative care services in the United States, operating under the Seasons brand with locations in over 30 states. It focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life for people with serious or terminal illnesses, offering care in homes, nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and dedicated inpatient units.
Background and History
Seasons Hospice was founded in 1997 in the Chicago area by a group of healthcare professionals who wanted to create a more patient-centered approach to end-of-life care. Over the years, it grew through partnerships and acquisitions, becoming one of the largest hospice providers in the country. In 2018, Seasons was acquired by Curo Health Services, which later merged with Kindred at Home, and is now part of the larger Humana-backed health services network. Despite these corporate changes, the organization continues to operate under the Seasons name and maintains its original mission of providing compassionate care to patients and families facing life-limiting illnesses.
How Seasons Hospice Works
Hospice care is for patients with a terminal illness who have a prognosis of six months or less, as certified by a physician, and who choose to focus on comfort rather than curative treatment. Seasons provides an interdisciplinary team that typically includes:
- Physicians and nurse practitioners who manage symptoms and coordinate care
- Registered nurses who visit regularly to monitor the patient’s condition
- Certified nursing assistants who help with daily activities like bathing and dressing
- Social workers who offer emotional support and help with advance care planning
- Chaplains who provide spiritual care according to the patient’s beliefs
- Trained volunteers who offer companionship and respite for caregivers
Care is available 24/7, with nurses on call for urgent needs. The plan of care is tailored to each patient and reviewed regularly. Seasons also offers continuous care during short-term crises, inpatient care in contracted facilities when symptoms are unmanageable at home, and bereavement support for families for up to 13 months after the patient’s death.
Palliative Care vs. Hospice
Many people confuse palliative care with hospice, but they are different. Palliative care is available at any stage of a serious illness and can be provided alongside curative treatments. Seasons offers a palliative care program (sometimes called Seasons Palliative Care or Seasons Health Plan) that focuses on symptom relief, communication about goals of care, and coordination with the patient’s primary doctors. It is not limited to a six-month prognosis. For example, a patient undergoing chemotherapy for advanced cancer might receive palliative care to manage pain and nausea while still receiving active treatment. Hospice, on the other hand, is specifically for end-of-life care when curative treatments are no longer pursued.
How to Choose Seasons or Another Provider
Choosing a hospice provider is a significant decision. Here are steps to consider:
- Ask your doctor or hospital social worker for recommendations and a list of Medicare-certified agencies in your area.
- Check if the provider is Medicare-certified and accepts your insurance (Medicaid, private insurance, or VA benefits).
- Contact the provider and ask about their team structure, response time, and availability of inpatient beds.
- Read online reviews and check state licensing and complaint records through your state health department.
- Interview the provider: ask how they handle after-hours calls, what their nurse-to-patient ratio is, and how they involve the patient’s primary physician.
- Ask about bereavement support and whether they offer services in your language.
Seasons is generally well-regarded, but the best choice depends on your specific needs, location, and insurance. It is wise to compare at least two providers.
Common Misconceptions and Problems
A common misconception is that hospice means giving up hope. In reality, hospice reframes hope—hope for comfort, dignity, and meaningful time with loved ones. Another misconception is that hospice is only for the last days of life. In fact, patients can receive hospice for up to six months and may be recertified if they live longer. Some patients even improve enough to be discharged from hospice.
Common problems that families report with hospice providers, including Seasons, include inconsistent staffing, communication gaps between shifts, and varying quality of care across different locations. Since Seasons operates in many states, experiences can differ widely depending on the local team. It’s important to advocate for your loved one and ask for a care conference if you have concerns.
Costs and Insurance Coverage
Hospice care is covered by Medicare Part A for patients who qualify, covering nearly all costs related to the terminal illness, including medications for symptom control, medical equipment, and team visits. Medicaid also covers hospice in most states. Private insurance plans often have hospice benefits as well. Seasons accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurances. For palliative care, coverage varies: Medicare Part B covers palliative care consultations, but ongoing palliative care may be billed as regular medical services. Patients should verify coverage with their insurance and with Seasons directly.
Safety and Quality Measures
Hospice providers are regulated by state and federal agencies. Medicare-certified hospices must meet Conditions of Participation, which include having a qualified team, maintaining patient records, and conducting regular quality assessments. Seasons is accredited by the Joint Commission, which sets rigorous standards for patient safety and quality. Families should be aware of potential safety issues such as medication errors or pressure ulcers, and should speak up if they notice anything concerning. The hospice team should provide clear instructions on medication administration and fall prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Seasons Hospice provide care in nursing homes?
Yes, Seasons provides hospice services in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other long-term care settings. The hospice team works alongside the facility’s staff to coordinate care and ensure the patient’s comfort.
Can a patient continue to see their own doctor while on hospice?
Yes, patients can keep their primary physician, and that doctor can remain involved in the plan of care. Seasons will coordinate with the physician, and the hospice medical director is available for consultations.
What if the patient lives longer than six months?
Patients can be recertified for hospice care if their doctor and the hospice medical director confirm that they still have a prognosis of six months or less. Many patients receive hospice for longer than six months.
Does Seasons offer support for family caregivers?
Yes, Seasons provides caregiver education, respite care, and emotional support. Volunteers can sit with the patient to give caregivers a break. After the patient’s death, bereavement support is offered for up to a year.
How quickly can hospice start?
Once a physician orders hospice and the patient consents, care can often begin within 24 to 48 hours. In urgent situations, Seasons may be able to start sooner.
Is palliative care the same as hospice at Seasons?
No. Seasons offers both, but they are different. Palliative care is for anyone with a serious illness and can be given with curative treatment. Hospice is for end-of-life care when curative treatment is no longer being pursued.
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