Friday, May 21, 2010

Discovering a Calm Place Amid Healthcare Confusion


Every day it's becoming more apparent that healthcare is an issue that we all must address. We read about it online or in the paper, hear about it in the news and it's the hot topic in our nation's capital. And because of all the disparate opinions from experts to coffee shop politicians, it's confusing and fluid - a maelstrom of issues changing almost daily depending upon who is doing the talking.

But there is one segment of the local healthcare industry that remains a calming force and is there for you - that is Hospice of Palm Beach County (HPBC). Regardless of race, religion, politics or your ability to pay, the members of Hospice of Palm Beach County work tirelessly to make certain that patients and families receive the treatment, programs and respect they deserve to enrich their quality of life.

Since its founding in 1978 as a not-for-profit facility, Hospice of Palm Beach County cares for an average of 1,050 patients on a daily basis. Building relationships is a passion for all the employees, and their care extends throughout the county, encompassing all facets of the community. Services are offered at the patient's home, in an extended care facility or a hospital - wherever the patient and family decide is best for them.

These services and programs are provided by a hospice physician, that patients primary physician and a group of certified nursing assistants, social workers, therapists, spiritual care counselors, bereavement counselors and volunteers - all working as one to comfort and treat the patient and their family.

Programs available at Hospice of Palm Beach County focus not only upon the patient but the family members and caregivers, too. Patients can choose from Integrative Therapies such as palliative massage, Reiki, aromatherapy, imagery work, relaxation training and music therapy. Family members are invited, and most welcome, the opportunity to speak to counselors, social workers and anyone on the team who can assist them in their time of need.

Caregivers, especially those family members who are caring for their loved one, face many physical, spiritual and emotional trials. That is why Hospice of Palm Beach County devotes many programs to aid them during this period. Resources and educational materials, a support system through education, advocacy and spiritual guidance and a forum where caregivers can share their stories and experiences with one another is readily available, regardless if the patient is receiving care from HPBC.

If a caregiver and patient decide to seek care from Hospice of Palm Beach County, then they will receive their own Personal Support Team of interdisciplinary professionals, 24/7 access to hospice staff for care and support, an individual plan of care that is customized to fit the unique needs and wishes of the patient and family, house calls and more.

When care for the patient has ended, Hospice of Palm Beach County shifts to its next responsibility. Their bereavement services act as a healing mechanism that not only benefits adults, but also the children of the family. Camp SeaStar for instance, along with other school based bereavement programs, are designed to aid kids ages 5 through 18. As you can see, at Hospice of Palm Beach County the surviving family is not forgotten - they are embraced.

In a time rife with moral issues and conflicting views, it's comforting to know that there is one place that any person in the county can go to when they are in need of care. So, if you are facing some difficult healthcare decisions and not sure where to turn, remember, there is no confusion - Hospice of Palm Beach County is there for you.

For more information on the programs and services of Hospice of Palm Beach County, please call (561) 848-5200 or visit www.hpbc.com.