Atrium Hospice offers four levels of care, as outlined by the Medicare hospice benefit, to ensure that both patients and their caregivers receive the appropriate support at every stage of the journey. These levels are designed to meet varying care needs, providing comfort, dignity, and compassionate care when it’s needed most. Families seeking home health in California can rely on these service levels to deliver consistent, compassionate, and personalized support that aligns with each individual’s medical and emotional needs.
Four Levels of Care We Provide
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Routine Care
Routine care is the most commonly used level of care, provided in the patient’s home or a familiar residential setting, such as a skilled nursing facility. Hospice staff, including nurses, social workers, home health aides, and chaplains, visit regularly to meet both the physical and emotional needs of the patient.
The goal is to allow patients to stay in a comfortable, familiar environment while receiving compassionate care focused on symptom management and pain control. Care plans are individualized, and support is also offered to family members during this difficult time.
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Continuous Care
Continuous care is provided during times of medical crises when a patient requires 24-hour care to manage acute symptoms. This service is typically delivered in the patient’s home and aims to stabilize the patient’s condition without hospitalization.
During a crisis, our skilled team provides intensive care to manage severe symptoms such as pain and difficulty breathing. This service is designed to bring relief to both the patient and their family, offering peace of mind during a challenging time.
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General Inpatient Care
General inpatient care is for patients whose symptoms cannot be controlled at home. When pain or other medical issues become unmanageable, the patient is admitted to a Medicare-certified facility for more intensive care.
Our team coordinates with the facility to ensure that the patient receives the highest level of care and comfort. General Inpatient Care ensures that patients in need of specialized symptom management are treated in a safe, controlled environment.
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Inpatient Respite Care
Inpatient respite care offers short-term relief for family caregivers, allowing them to rest while their loved one receives professional care in a licensed facility. This service is available for up to five consecutive days at a time.
Respite care provides a temporary solution during times of caregiver fatigue or personal need. Patients receive expert care in a safe environment, giving families peace of mind and the opportunity to recharge.
Who Can Benefit from the Four Levels of Care?
These care levels are suited for individuals at different stages of life-limiting illness, whether they require ongoing symptom management, short-term crisis stabilization, or temporary caregiver relief. They are especially beneficial for families seeking structured, dependable hospice services that adapt to changing needs.
Key Benefits of Our Four Levels of Care
- Comfort and dignity in a familiar or supportive environment
- Flexible care options that adapt to changing needs
- Around-the-clock professional support during crises
- Specialized symptom management and pain relief
- Emotional and practical support for families
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of having different levels of hospice care?
How does routine hospice care work?
When is continuous care recommended?
What happens if symptoms can’t be managed at home?
How long can inpatient respite care last?
Can a patient move between different levels of care?
Care That Feels Like Home
Hospice is more than medical—it’s personal. We create a space where comfort and connection come first. Reach out to learn how our care can support your family’s needs.





