Hospice in the Hospital
May 30, 2024
Our conversation today highlights the partnership between Blue Ridge Hospice and Valley Health to offer hospice services (Hospice in the Hospital) at Shenandoah Memorial Hospital, a program previously established at Winchester Medical Center. Guests today include Jennifer Martin, Chief Access and Growth Officer & Carlos Galliamore, Director of Strategic Growth and Access - both from Blue Ridge Hospice, and Travis Clark, Vice President of Operations at Shenandoah Memorial Hospital.
Jennifer Martin explains that hospice care is intended for patients with a life-limiting illness and a prognosis of six months or less. She talks about the types of services provided under hospice care, including pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, nursing services, and volunteer services, stressing that hospice is about improving quality of life.
Jennifer highlights the success of the hospice program at Shenandoah Memorial since its inception on April 1st. She emphasizes the partnership between Blue Ridge Hospice and Shenandoah Memorial, detailing how it integrates hospice services into hospital care to provide comprehensive end-of-life care. This partnership not only benefits patients but also supports hospital staff, offering them emotional and logistical aid.
Travis Clark discusses the community benefits and the positive impact on healthcare providers, noting how hospice services offer specialized care and relieve some of the burdens from hospital staff. He points out the logistical advantages, making it easier for families residing in rural areas to access necessary services without long commutes.
Carlos Galliamore explains the process from the initial referral in the hospital to the implementation of hospice care, aiming to clarify doubts and encourage earlier discussions about hospice needs. He emphasizes the importance of initiating conversations about hospice care early on to ensure families are prepared and aware of their options and advises that any noticeable health decline should prompt a discussion with hospice providers.
The group highlights the available resources, such as social workers, chaplains, volunteer services, and grief support, which are crucial for both patients and healthcare providers. They also discuss the difference between hospice and home health care, clarifying that hospice also provides physical, speech, and occupational therapies aimed at improving the patient's comfort and quality of life.
We wrap up our conversation with a call for community conversations and support for hospice services through donations, volunteering, and raising awareness. Both Blue Ridge Hospice and Valley Health have avenues for financial contributions and volunteering efforts, which significantly support their programs. Learn more about them here: http://brhospice.org/ and here: https://www.valleyhealthlink.com/about-us/valley-health-foundations/