“The importance of local support is evident with each day of care,” Kellie said. “There's a deficit between what is reimbursed by insurance and the actual care provided to our patients and families, so when community members put donations in an envelope and send it to us, the impact is felt immediately.”
Hospice patients typically have a prognosis of six months or less, but some receive services for longer periods of time, with care provided by an interdisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, social workers, aides, chaplains and bereavement staff. Patients can often remain in their home while receiving Hospice care, rather than stay in a hospital. If a person requires hospitalization or placement in a facility, Hospice can continue to work with them to the extent of insurance regulations.
Families struggling with cancer can count on Hospice to provide compassionate care and emotional support.
“Cancer patients eligible for hospice are no longer receiving curative treatments," Kellie said. "The emphasis is placed on comfort and quality of life—whatever that may mean to them. Our staff have the time to help patients and families work through their illness in close partnership with their primary physician."
Hospice can also provide families with bereavement counseling and follow-up support for a year after the loss of a loved one. Counseling is also offered free of charge to community members who have not used Hospice services.
“Hospice is about hope, happiness, and quality of life. Services are provided with a 'meet them where they’re at' approach, meaning the patient and family choose the level of involvement of our staff and programs," Kellie said. "Patients who are able continue to go out to dinner, visit the casino, take their beloved Corvette for another ride, and attend bingo nights and other outings. In certain cases, Hospice has brought all of these activities to people in their homes.”
Above all, the Hospice staff is extremely mission driven and dedicated to their work.
"Each and every staff member approaches their job with a level of care, concern, and professionalism," Kellie said. "It's an honor and privilege to walk this journey with a family when they need you the most."
Although Hospice offers one of a kind services, it is not the only program available to help local cancer patients.
It is an honor and privilege to walk this journey with a family when they need you the most.
“There are a variety of programs available to the community to assist cancer patients in whatever phase of their journey they're experiencing,” Kellie said.
Another available program is called Advanced Illness Management, or AIM, which also provides services focused on comfort, quality of life, and symptom management.
“Each family, illness, case, and situation is different and should be treated as such. Sometimes the smallest things make all the difference," said Kellie.
For more information about Hospice or other programs and services contact Kellie at khitchman@hospiceslv.org, call (315) 265-3105, or visit the organization's website.
“Hospice matters. The end of life deserves as much beauty, care, and respect as the beginning.” —Anonymous