The U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has unveiled a new payment model demonstration geared toward dementia-related illnesses, which are becoming more prevalent among hospice patients. The Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model is designed to improve the quality of life for dementia patients and their caregivers Read more…
As part of a campaign to raise awareness about the availability of hospice care in all 55 counties of West Virginia, a flier has been designed with a map and listing of the 18 hospices in the Hospice Council. West Virginia hospices score very high in quality measures and are Read more…
“We are here to assist all individuals who need hospice services:” Hughes, MC & Vernon, E: We are here to assist all individuals who need hospice services: hospices’ perspectives on improving access and inclusion for racial/ethnic minorities. Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine: 6:1-7 Minority populations in West Virginia are less likely Read more…
On March 23rd, 2020, Governor Justice announced that West Virginians should stay at home after the first sign of COVID-19 community spread. This is the best way to prevent further spread and protects our most vulnerable elderly West Virginians and those with pre-existing conditions. West Virginia hospices have been preparing Read more…
Medicare has developed a helpful list of questions to help consumers who are trying to decide between different hospices. Some of the key questions to ask include:- What services and treatments will be covered by my insurance? What happens if I need more care or need 24-hour nursing care? How Read more…
West Virginia hospices’ consumer satisfaction scores ranked 6th in the nation last year. This is because all WV hospices work hard to ensure that each patient and family receives excellent care. The Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPs) surveys are sent to families after a hospice patient dies. Read more…
I have recently been spending lots of time on the phone and writing emails to make sure all of my mother’s care is arranged. There are so many people to contact and much of her care is fragmented and not well-coordinated. It has made me reflect a lot on Read more…
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in West Virginia, second only to cancer. Advanced heart disease causes great suffering and many would benefit from the specialized support that hospice offers. But people with advanced heart disease are less likely to be referred for hospice care. This Read more…
What matters most to you? Being at home, being comfortable, having time to say goodbye and/or having support for your family? When I was asked recently ‘what is a good death?’ and ‘what does death with dignity really mean?’ I hesitated. I have worked with hospice nearly my whole career, Read more…