The patient's attending physician or the Hospice Medical Director certifies the patient for Hospice care and provides the medical direction necessary for the management of pain and symptoms. Skilled nurses visit patients and families to provide nursing assessments, procedures, education and support. Certified social workers counsel patients and families and coordinate any needed community resources. The spiritual philosophy and religious traditions of the patient and family are respected. Chaplains are available to bring spiritual and religious counseling and support to the patient and family.
Qualified therapists assist the patient and family with special needs.
Services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, respiratory therapy, and nutritional counseling. A registered pharmacist collaborates with physicians and nurses and can provide consultation visits to the hospice patient for pain and symptom management. Trained men and women provide support to grieving families for at least one year after the loss of their loved one. In addition, Hospice also sponsors bereavement groups and support for anyone in the community who has experienced a death of a family member, a friend, especially a school friend, or co-worker. Infants, children and adolescents with a terminal or life-threatening illness are provided Hospice Care and Services.