DCH Expands West Alabama Palliative Care Program

TUSCALOOSA, AL — DCH Health System on Wednesday announced it will expand its West Alabama Palliative Care program on Aug. 10.

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The health system said it will be adding outpatient services designed to provide continued support for patients after they leave the hospital.

The expansion, funded through the DCH Foundation and proceeds from the foundation's 2025 DCH Foundation Ball, will initially serve patients transitioning from a DCH hospital stay to a rehabilitation facility.

DCH says West Alabama Palliative Care has served patients with serious or advanced illnesses since 2016, offering specialized care for those with conditions such as cancer, heart disease and lung disease.

The program focuses on relieving symptoms including pain, fatigue, nausea, shortness of breath and sleep difficulties while also providing emotional support, care coordination and assistance with complex medical decisions.

Unlike hospice care, DCH explained that palliative care can be provided alongside curative treatment at any stage of a serious illness.

The program is led by Medical Director Dr. John Miller and licensed social worker Dr. Sarah Pederson, who work with patients, families and rehabilitation teams to improve quality of life throughout treatment and recovery.

Under the expanded outpatient model, DCH said patients who received inpatient palliative care during their hospital stay may be referred by their physician as part of their discharge plan. Providers will continue following patients during their rehabilitation stay to help ensure continuity of care.

"Our goal is to help patients live as well as possible while navigating serious illness," Miller said in a statement. "Palliative care is about treating the whole person — not just the disease."

Pederson said the transition from the hospital to a rehabilitation facility can be challenging for patients and their families.

"A serious illness affects every part of a person's life — not just their physical health," she said. "Our role is to help patients and their families navigate the emotional, practical and personal challenges that often come with the transition of care from hospital to rehabilitation facility."

Brandt LaPish, DCH's vice president of development and executive director of the DCH Foundation, said the expansion demonstrates the impact of community donations.

"West Alabama Palliative Care is a powerful example of that investment at work, providing patients and their families with the specialized support they need while navigating serious illness," LaPish said.

For more information about West Alabama Palliative Care, call (205) 759-7904.

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