Our Hospice care team works with patients and their families to develop individualized plans of care that are designed to provide the patient with the physical, social, emotional and spiritual support that’s right for them
at this critical time. We also provide ongoing support for the patient’s loved ones. The medical focus of our Hospice team is on symptom management and pain control. While hope of remission and cure is never abandoned, the focus is on creating an environment for the patient and their loved ones that allows everyone to make the most of the remaining days they have with one another.*Source: Hospice Care – A Physician's Guide, National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, 2nd Edition, 2001
Each Hospice team member plays an important role to address the physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs of patients, their families and loved ones. The roles of the team members are:
• Attending Physician – Our patients remain under their doctor's care and our medical staff maintains contact with the physcian throughout their stay.
• Hospice Medical Director – Oversees the treatment by the Hospice team, coordinates with the attending physician and is available for consultation.
• Hospice Nurse – Coordinates the individualized care plan and provides specialized palliative services.
• Social Workers – Provide emotional support, counseling and community resource support services.
• Chaplain – Assists in providing spiritual care to the patient, their families and loved ones.
• Home Health Aide – Assists with personal care and light housekeeping services.
• Other Therapists & Counselors – A wide range of professionals may be called on the address a patients' specific needs. These include dieticians, physical, occupational and speech therapists, as well as massage therapists who provide services according to the patient's individual Plan of Care.
• Bereavement Coordinator – Supports the person, family and loved ones through the dying process and offers follow-up grief education and support.
• Pharmacist – Works with the Hospice team to ensure the appropriate monitoring, supervision and timeliness of the pharmaceutical services.
• Volunteer – Trained volunteers provide a variety of services, including companionship, for patients, family and caregivers.