We do require, in order to make the home a viable setting for care, that a primary caregiver be available and willing to assume ongoing responsibility for basic homemaking. If there is no family member to assume such a role, we will help the patient make substitute arrangements. After eligibility has been determined, we visit with the patient and family to determine their needs. In addition to providing care, we teach the family new skills, educate them about what to expect in the course of the patient's illness, and help them prepare for death. Our staff Our staff works with the patient and his or her attending physician to create a comprehensive care plan, in which relief of pain and other symptoms is a paramount concern.
Care is provided by our specialized nurses.
Arrangements are made as needed for home health aides, homemakers, private-duty nurses and specialty therapists. Social workers, chaplains, and nutritionists may provide counseling. Volunteers provide friendship, respite, and assistance for families as needed. Respite care Respite care, a break in care-giving for family members, is provided by volunteers and aides at home for a period of hours, or in an inpatient setting for several days. Inpatient hospice care for acute needs is available in all four community hospitals.