6 Features When Picking A Good Hospice

The amount of hospice providers nationwide has grown exponentially. As with most services, there are many factors to consider when selecting a hospice and healthcare provider for either yourself or a loved one. To help navigate the variety of options, Consumer Reports published an article, “How to Find a Good Hospice Program: Six Features to Look for” and Delaware Hospice is the only organization in the area to meet all of the criteria.

1. Nonprofit status and 20+ years of experience

Delaware Hospice is the leading nonprofit hospice and healthcare organization serving Delaware and parts of southern Delaware and Chester Counties in Pennsylvania. Delawareans who saw a need for hospice care in our area established us in 1982. Throughout our almost 40 years of service to Delawareans and Pennsylvanians, we have become a trusted community partner in providing the highest quality hospice and healthcare services through end-of-life education and support.

2. Hospice certified nurses and doctors on staff and available 24 hours per day. 

By having certified hospice personnel on staff, we are able to truly care for the individual needs of our patients. Regardless of the time of day, patients and caregivers are able to talk with a nurse, nurse practitioner, or doctor that will be able to answer questions. Many of our staff members continue their education to ensure they are providing the best care possible. Delaware Hospice is the only organization with Certified Hospice and Palliative Pediatric Nurses on staff in Delaware to support our Katybug patients.

3. Supportive palliative care services for patients living with serious illness, but not medically or emotionally ready for hospice care

Our Delaware Palliative program provides specialized supportive care for people living with the burden of a serious illness, whatever the diagnosis. Our team of nurse practitioners and social workers provide holistic physical and psychosocial care through home and virtual visits, while working collaboratively with the patient’s primary doctor and/or specialists. Delaware Palliative patients benefit from the individualized in-home care provided, while still receiving curative treatments, and other services such as home health, PT/OT, etc. The Delaware Palliative team also assists patients and families with goals of care conversations and completion of advance care planning documents.

4. An inpatient unit, where patients can go if symptoms can’t be managed at home

 Delaware Hospice has the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford providing 16-single patient/family suites that are set in a comfortable and peaceful home-like atmosphere, with space for family and friends to gather. A team of professionals will provide specialized hospice care 24 hours a day, allowing family and friends to spend quality time together. Visitors have the opportunity to visit in-person, on the patio, and virtually. Safety and health precautions are in effect and being monitored to ensure the health of our patients and staff.

5. Ability to provide care in nursing homes and assisted living residences

We provide service in almost 70 nursing homes and assisted living residences throughout the three counties in Delaware and in two counties in Pennsylvania. With these partnerships, we are able to offer our families timely visits and expert care.

6. Medicare approval

Delaware Hospice is a Medicare and Medicaid approved organization, as well as state licensed hospice program. We are also approved by many other private and commercial insurance organizations. Delaware Hospice is also voluntarily accredited by The Joint Commission which performs rigorous surveys and audits every three years on their members. As an active member with several other national organizations that monitor and determine best hospice and healthcare practices- National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, Center to Advance Palliative Care, Alliance Kids, Delaware Quality of Life Coalition, and Delaware Association for Home & Community Care- Delaware Hospice stands committed to supporting every individual, family, and community with compassionate and expert care for serious illness.

Delaware Hospice is more than hospice, and we offer a variety of programs and services: Delaware Transitions, Delaware Palliative, Delaware Hospice, Katybug, Bereavement, and New Hope. It is never too early to learn more about any of our programs and services. Please visit delawarehospice.org or call us at 302.683.8948.

800-838-9800     delawarehospice.org