For Professionals

Making A Referral to HPCMV

At Hospice & Palliative Care of Martha’s Vineyard (HPCMV), we value our partnerships with medical professionals, both on and off the Island. Our expert team is available 7 days a week, 365 days a year to support you and your patients with compassionate, comprehensive care.

If you have questions about our services, patient eligibility, or the referral process, we encourage you to reach out. Our clinical staff is always available to consult, provide guidance, and help connect your patients and their families with the resources they need.

To ask a question or make a referral, please call us anytime at (508) 693‑0189 or you can fax your referral to 508-693-7229.

Understanding the Role of Attending Physician

The relationship between doctor, the patient and their family remains essential, and can continue to add guidance and reassurance throughout their care journey. When receiving palliative services from HPCMV, the attending physician remains the primary provider and the palliative care team adds specialized support.

 A person getting hospice care from Hospice & Palliative Care of Martha’s Vineyard can choose to continue to see the doctor most involved in their care to collaborate with the hospice physician. The physician of choice will work together with the hospice team regarding the patient’s plan of care, continue to provide and sign orders, receive updates from our team, and participate in consultations as needed.

In partnership with the attending physician, our interdisciplinary hospice team, experienced in managing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs, will provide comprehensive support to your patient. A registered nurse is available by phone 24/7 to respond to urgent concerns, assess symptoms, and coordinate timely assistance. The attending physician’s involvement is a vital part of the hospice model.

We value our collaboration with you and look forward to working together to deliver comfort, dignity, and compassionate care to patients and families facing life‑limiting illness.

Who Is Eligible?

You may consider hospice or palliative care if your patient is:

• • Living with a serious or life-limiting illness
  • Experiencing pain, discomfort, or challenging symptoms
  • Tired of frequent hospitalizations or emergency visits
  • Feeling that treatments are no longer helping
  • Seeking comfort, dignity, and support at home

Many people tell us they wish they had called earlier. We’re here to answer questions without pressure.

HPCMV Services:

Patients and families receive a full circle of care, tailored to personal needs and wishes:

• • Nurses skilled in symptom and medication management
  • Physicians overseeing personalized care plans in collaboration with the patient’s doctors and medical team
  • Social workers offering counseling, resources, and practical support to patients and their family/caregivers
  • Spiritual care counselors who respect all faiths, traditions, and beliefs
  • Home health aides/CNAs assisting with bathing and personal care
  • Medications, medical supplies, and equipment delivery to the patient’s home
  • 24/7 access to a nurse for urgent needs or questions
  • Volunteer support for patient companionship and respite for caregivers
  • Grief and bereavement services for families before and after loss

Cost & Insurance:

Hospice care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, Mass Health, many private insurance plans, and veterans’ benefits. This coverage typically includes medications, nursing visits, doctor’s visits, medical equipment, supplies, and support services.

We believe everyone deserves compassionate care. If insurance or financial concerns are preventing you from calling, please reach out — we are here to help.