Certified Revenue Cycle Representative (CRCR) Practice Exam

In the context of hospice care, what are subsequent periods after the initial benefit typically limited to?

1. Unlimited duration

2. Only 60 days

3. Maximum of 90 days

4. Fixed annual renewal

The correct answer is: Unlimited duration

In hospice care, subsequent periods after the initial benefit are typically limited to a maximum of 90 days. This is in accordance with the Medicare hospice benefit guidelines, which designate that after the first 90 days of hospice care, a patient can receive an additional 90-day period if they continue to qualify for care. After the two 90-day periods, the patient can receive an unlimited number of additional 60-day periods, as long as they continue to meet eligibility requirements. Therefore, the correct understanding is that the subsequent periods consist of a series of 60-day renewals, not unlimited duration. The focus of hospice care is on providing comfort and support to patients with terminal illnesses, balanced with regulatory requirements guiding the benefits provided.