Hospice use after ICU admission increased across the US from 2011–2023

Medical Xpress

February 19, 2026

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Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in the use of hospice care among patients who have been admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) across the United States, with data showing a notable rise from 2011 to 2023. This trend is attributed to growing efforts by hospitals to integrate palliative care into their treatment plans for critically ill patients. Palliative care, which focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life rather than curing an illness, has become more widely recognized as a vital component of end-of-life care. While earlier studies suggested that palliative care could facilitate transitions to hospice, this new analysis provides concrete evidence of the upward trend in hospice use following ICU admission. The shift toward increased hospice utilization reflects broader changes in healthcare policies and medical practices aimed at addressing the needs of seriously ill patients. Hospitals are now more proactive in offering palliative care alongside traditional treatments, particularly in ICU settings where patients often face critical decisions about their care. This integration has not only improved symptom management but also helped patients and families navigate end-of-life options with greater clarity and support. The study, which analyzed data from over 500,000 ICU admissions across more than 400 U.S. hospitals, revealed that hospice use after critical illness increased steadily during the 12-year period. Notably, the median time between ICU discharge and hospice enrollment shortened, indicating a more seamless transition for patients. Additionally, researchers observed variations in hospice utilization rates across different demographic groups, with older adults and those residing in areas with higher socioeconomic challenges showing slightly higher rates. This trend holds significant implications for healthcare providers and policymakers. The rise in hospice use underscores the importance of palliative care integration in improving patient outcomes and aligning with their preferences for end-of-life care. By

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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/19/2026