Hospice Care Team
Because advanced illness affects much more than physical health, a hospice
care team is made up of people with different kinds of training and skills.
Which team members visit you and how often will depend upon the patient’s
unique situation, wants and needs. It's important to remember that--
above all—the patient and his or her loved ones are in charge of
all care decisions.
Members of the care team include:
Doctors. The patient’s family physician works closely with the hospice care
team, which includes hospice’s medical director.
Nurses. Hospice nurses provide skilled care to relieve symptoms and improve comfort,
and are an excellent source of information for patients and families.
A hospice nurse is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Home Health Aides. A professional, certified aide can help with personal needs such as bathing,
dressing and oral care.
Volunteers. Frederick Health Hospice volunteers are compassionate listeners and willing
helpers who provide companionship, emotional support and practical assistance.
Social Workers. These professional counselors provide guidance in making decisions, talking
about difficult topics, and helping patients and families deal with the
emotional challenges of advanced illness.
Spiritual Care. The hospice chaplain can support patients and families directly within
their personal belief systems, or work with their own pastor, priest or
clergyman to provide spiritual support.
Bereavement Coordinators. A variety of support groups are offered; workshops on various topics related
to the grieving process; confidentiality; one on one telephone support;
mailings that include cards of support and comfort and educational materials.
Music Therapist. Board Certified clinician. The music therapist can visit one time or on
a routine basis , depending on the needs of the individual.
Veteran Liaison. Provides care and support that reflects the contributions made by our men
and women in uniform.
What Our Families Say About Our Services
"I always thought Hospice was an end of life service. I wish I would
have called sooner. Your group showed compassionate care to my husband."
- Grateful Wife
"Hospice care was recommended at the appropriate time. This made my
dad's care exactly what we needed toward the end of life"- Grateful Family
Frederick Health Hospice was wonderful. The nurses were great wtih my mom
and my whole family. Everyone took time answering my questions and explained
the whole process to us, allowing me to explain things to my children."
- Grateful Family