Suncoast Hospice Offers Support During Difficult Times

Have you ever wondered what a hospice is?

Hospices help guide patients, families and caregivers and provide support and assist with decision-making during life-threatening illnesses.

“Often our care comes at a time when people are not sure where to turn and are faced with extremely serious illnesses and conditions.  Contrary to some beliefs, our care is not restricted to those with cancer; we take care of people with all diagnoses.  We are a mission-driven organization with those we serve at the center of all we do,” said Louise Cleary, Director of Public Relations & Marketing at Suncoast Hospice.

Hospice puts emphasizes on quality rather than quantity of life. The dying are comforted, professional medical care is given, and symptom relief is provided. Patients are cared for in their own homes, nursing homes, hospitals and in hospice housing – wherever the patient chooses.

The care plan includes not only the patient, but also the family. Emotional, spiritual and practical support is provided based on the patient’s wishes and family’s needs.

According to Cleary, services are covered by Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance and private pay.

“No one who needs and wants our care is turned away, and in fact last year, thanks to a generous community, we were able to provide more than $13 million in uncompensated care,” she said.

There are many benefits to Suncoast Hospice’s programs and services. “We provide a team approach to care incorporating the expertise of doctors, nurses, aides, social workers, chaplains, volunteers and other trained professionals such as respiratory specialists, music therapists and much more,” explained Cleary.  

Built on the foundation of volunteerism, Suncoast Hospice thrives due in part of the efforts of over 3,000 volunteers. “Volunteers are virtually everywhere within our organization,” said Cleary. “We value our volunteers and couldn’t do what we do without them.”

Numerous volunteer opportunities exist at Suncoast Hospice, and new ideas are always welcome. On Friday, September 9, a volunteer fair will be hosted at the Community Service Center located at 2675 Tampa Road in Palm Harbor from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. where visitors can explore all of the volunteer opportunities available including helping patients and families, office work, pet therapy, resale shop opportunities, special events and more.

“It is important to know how absolutely vital our volunteers are to our hospice,” said Cleary. Training is provided for all volunteers and includes a short orientation session. Longer sessions are provided for those interested in patient care.

For more information regarding volunteer opportunities with Suncoast Hospice or the volunteer fair, call 727-586-4432.