Hospice offers alternative for end of life care

Friday Nov 06 2009 10:06 AM

What are the options for care at the end of life? Hospice care rapidly became a commonplace option for patients and their family members. Knowing about hospice early on can ensure comfort and dignity for those individuals nearing the end of their lives. It can also serve as a tremendous support for families as well.

"Hospice: care near the end of life" is a one hour community informational seminar to be held Tuesday, Dec. 8 at the Lakewood Library from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Presenters include Amy White, reimbursement specialist, Hilda Harmon, manager of Social Work Hospice; and David Green, supervisor of Access Services. Presenters are from Franciscan Hospice and Palliative Care.

This free presentation will cover important issues for individuals who want to become more acquainted with hospice: what are the services; how and where hospice is provided; paying for hospice; Medicare, Medicaid and private pay options; the role of the family and graduating from hospice.

"Hospice: Care Near the End of Life" is sponsored by Pierce County Aging and Long Term Care as part of its "Know it before you need it" series. Space is limited. Reservations can be made by calling 253-798-8787. For more information about this seminar, call the Pierce County Aging and Disability Resource Center at 253-798-4600.

Contact: Bob Riler, Pierce County Aging & Long Term Care, (253) 798-7384 or briler@co.pierce.wa.us.

Find more Pierce County news at www.piercecountywa.org or follow us at twitter.com/pierceco.