
Smoky Mountain Home Health and Hospice is honored to announce that we have received a 5-Star rating from Medicare’s Care Compare for 2025 — making us one of the only hospices in the 13 counties we serve to earn this elite distinction. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This recognition is especially meaningful because it’s based entirely on feedback from the families we’ve served — not internal surveys or self-assessments. The results come from the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) Hospice Survey, a mandatory, nationwide program administered by Medicare to evaluate the quality of hospice care across the country. A CAHPS Hospice Survey Summary Star Rating, called the Family Caregiver Survey Rating, is publicly reported for all hospices with 75 or more completed surveys over the reporting period. Star Ratings are updated every other quarter.
Anyone can view these ratings publicly on Medicare’s official website at medicare.gov/care-compare/details/hospice/441550.
A Legacy of Compassion and Quality

Earning a 5-Star rating — the highest possible — is a reflection of that mission in action. It demonstrates that our team consistently goes above and beyond to ensure patients receive not only excellent medical care, but also emotional and spiritual support tailored to each family’s needs.
Even more impressive, Smoky Mountain Home Health and Hospice ranked higher than both the Tennessee and national averages in every single category measured by the CAHPS Hospice Survey.
CAHPS Hospice Survey Results – 2025
(Higher percentages indicate better quality of care)
| Category | Smoky Mountain | Tennessee Avg. | National Avg. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication with Family | 86% | 83% | 81% |
| Getting Timely Help | 85% | 79% | 77% |
| Treating Patient with Respect | 94% | 91% | 91% |
| Emotional & Spiritual Support | 93% | 91% | 90% |
| Help for Pain & Symptoms | 78% | 77% | 75% |
| Training Family to Care for Patient | 80% | 78% | 75% |
| Overall Rating of Hospice | 86% | 82% | 81% |
| Would Recommend to Others | 91% | 86% | 84% |
What These Numbers Mean for Families
These results represent much more than statistics — they represent trust. Each percentage point is a family who felt heard, supported, and cared for.
Families reported that our hospice team consistently communicated clearly, provided timely assistance, and treated their loved ones with the utmost respect. They also felt confident and prepared to care for their family members at home, thanks to the education and guidance our team provided.
Our highest marks came in “Treating Patients with Respect” (94%) and “Would Recommend to Others” (91%), underscoring the compassion and professionalism our staff demonstrate daily.
“We’re incredibly proud of this recognition,” said Tammy Francis, Owner. “For more than four decades, our mission has been to care for our neighbors as if they were our own family. This 5-Star rating reflects the dedication of our entire team and the deep relationships we’ve built with the families who entrust us with their loved ones.”
Continuing a Tradition of Excellence
At Smoky Mountain Home Health and Hospice, our work is about more than providing healthcare — it’s about helping families find peace, comfort, and dignity in every moment.
Being one of the only 5-Star hospices in our 13-county service area is not just an achievement; it’s a responsibility we carry proudly. We remain committed to continuous improvement and to setting the standard for hospice care in East Tennessee.
As we celebrate this milestone, we extend heartfelt gratitude to the families who took the time to share their experiences. Your feedback inspires us to keep delivering the highest quality care for years to come.
To learn more about our services or read our full Medicare rating, visit our official Medicare Care Compare page.

