What happens at a hospice intake visit
A plain-language overview of the first visit and the questions families often want to bring.
The first visit is partly medical and partly practical
A hospice intake visit usually includes a review of the person's situation, current needs, medications, equipment, contact numbers, and how the hospice team can be reached.
It is also a time to ask what the next few days at home may look like. You are allowed to ask slow, practical questions.
Have the basic papers nearby
The team may ask for medication lists, insurance cards, doctor information, advance directives, or recent discharge papers. Put what you have in one place before the visit if you can.
If something is missing, write it down as a follow-up rather than trying to fix everything during the visit.
Ask how the team works
Families often need the operating details more than a long explanation.
- Who visits regularly, and how often?
- Who do we call at night or on weekends?
- What supplies or equipment will be delivered?
- What should stay in the binder for future visits?
- How do medication changes get communicated?
Leave with names and numbers
Before the visit ends, make sure the contact sheet has the main number, after-hours number, nurse or team name, pharmacy instructions, and any delivery contacts the team provides.
Last reviewed August 25, 2026