top of page

In-Home Hospice vs. Inpatient Hospice: Key Differences

  • Writer: Solstice HC
    Solstice HC
  • Aug 20, 2025
  • 5 min read
In-Home Hospice vs. Inpatient Hospice

When families face the challenges of serious illness, they want comfort, dignity, and compassion for their loved one. At Solstice, we understand how important it is to provide care that respects both the patient and the family. That is why Hospice in Salt Lake City, Utah plays such an important role in giving peace of mind.


Hospice is about more than medical care. It is about creating an environment where patients feel comforted and families feel supported. We make sure no one has to walk through this stage of life alone. With the right care, each day can be filled with meaning, even in difficult times.


Table of Contents


What is Hospice Care

Hospice care is designed for individuals who are in the advanced stages of chronic or life-limiting illnesses. The focus shifts from curing the disease to enhancing the quality of life. We provide expert support that eases pain, manages symptoms, and supports families emotionally and spiritually.


This care is not about giving up hope. Instead, it is about making every day comfortable and meaningful. Families often tell us they are relieved to know that their loved one’s care is handled with compassion and skill. Whether at home, in a hospital, or at one of our facilities, our goal is always the same: dignity, comfort, and peace.


Four Levels of Hospice Care

We recognize that every patient’s needs are unique. That is why hospice care is offered at four levels, each designed to provide the right type of support.


Routine home care is the most common level. Here, our caregivers and nurses visit regularly to ensure patients receive comfort and families get the guidance they need.


Continuous home care is available when a patient requires 24-hour supervision at home due to severe symptoms. Our team remains by the bedside to provide uninterrupted support.


Inpatient hospice is the right choice when medical needs become too complex to manage at home. Patients receive round-the-clock care from skilled professionals in a dedicated setting.

Respite care is short-term support offered in a facility, giving families a break while ensuring their loved one remains in good hands. Each level is designed to meet changing needs with compassion and expertise.


Inpatient Hospice vs. Home Hospice

One of the most common decisions families face is whether to choose inpatient hospice or in-home hospice. Both options share the same goal of comfort and compassion, but they differ in setting and intensity.


In-home hospice allows patients to stay in familiar surroundings. Our team visits regularly to provide medical support, counseling, and caregiving. Families remain active participants in the care process. This option works well for those whose symptoms are manageable outside of a medical facility.


Inpatient hospice provides 24-hour care in a specialized setting. It is the best choice when symptoms are severe, complex, or require immediate medical supervision. Patients receive constant attention, and families gain peace of mind knowing that expert help is always present.


At Solstice, we help families decide which setting is best by listening to their needs and explaining their options. Our commitment remains the same in both environments: providing expert care with compassion.


Long-Term Hospice Care

For some patients, hospice care continues for weeks or even months. Long-term hospice care ensures comfort and support during this time. We provide consistent visits, regular assessments, and emotional guidance for families.


In-home long-term care allows patients to remain in familiar surroundings while still benefiting from our ongoing professional care. Inpatient long-term care provides the same level of compassion in a controlled medical setting, which is ideal when conditions are unstable.


We understand that long-term care requires patience, compassion, and flexibility. That is why our team works closely with families to adjust care plans as needs evolve. The focus always remains on comfort and dignity.


Hospice Care in a Hospital Setting

Hospice care can also be provided in a hospital. This setting is often chosen when patients need immediate access to medical resources. In hospitals, we work alongside medical teams to make sure our patients receive not just clinical support but also personal and compassionate care.


While hospitals may seem less personal, we bring warmth and understanding into these environments. Our mission is to ensure that even in a hospital setting, patients and families feel the comfort and respect they deserve. We do this by focusing on the human spirit and making sure every moment matters.


Outpatient Hospice

Outpatient hospice is another option available for families. This care is designed for patients who are still mobile and able to visit a hospice facility. It allows them to receive medical support, therapies, and counseling in a clinical environment while maintaining independence at home.


Outpatient services also provide access to specialized resources that may not be available at home. For families, it offers flexibility and reassurance that their loved one is receiving expert care while still living life with freedom and dignity.


How Does Solstice Help

At Solstice, we believe people are our passion and expert care is our purpose. From the moment you choose us, you gain a dedicated team that combines medical expertise with heartfelt compassion. Our mission is to ease pain, provide comfort, and celebrate life every day.


We do not just care for patients. We support families too. We explain what to expect, answer questions, and stand by your side during this journey. Our caregivers go the extra mile to make sure every patient feels valued and respected.


All of our hospice services are covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. This makes it easier for families to focus on what matters most; spending meaningful time together. We take pride in serving our community in Salt Lake City with compassion and excellence.


Bottom Line

Choosing Hospice in Salt Lake City, Utah is about choosing comfort, peace, and dignity. At Solstice, we provide more than medical care; we provide a trusted partnership. Whether your loved one is at home, in a hospital, or in an inpatient setting, we are here to help every step of the way.


Families trust us because we bring both expertise and compassion to our work. We celebrate life, ease pain, and provide reassurance. With Solstice, you are never alone. We are committed to making each day as meaningful and comfortable as possible.


Frequently Asked Questions

Who can receive hospice care?

Patients with chronic or life-limiting illnesses who have a prognosis of six months or less may qualify for hospice care.

Can hospice care be provided at home?

Yes. Our team provides regular visits to ensure patients are comfortable and families feel supported.

What services are included in hospice care?

Services include pain management, emotional support, counseling, and medical supervision.

Does insurance cover hospice care?

Yes. Hospice services are covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance providers.

How does Solstice support families?

We provide not only medical expertise but also emotional support, counseling, and resources to help families through every stage.


 
 
 

Comments


bottom of page