Literature Review
All posts tagged with “Hospice Provider News.”
Creating and sustaining a culture of excellence
01/07/26 at 03:00 AMCreating and sustaining a culture of excellence American Nurse; by Aileen Cassada, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, NRP, and Holly Puckett, DNP, RN, CNE, CMSRN; 1/5/26 Takeaways:
Fairhaven, Rainbow partner on hospice suites
01/07/26 at 03:00 AMFairhaven, Rainbow partner on hospice suites Daily Jefferson County Union, Whitewater, WI; by Daily Union Staff; 12/11/25 Fairhaven Senior Services in Whitewater and Rainbow Community Care in Jefferson have announced a partnership to serve families whose loved ones are in end of life care. The nonprofit organizations are collaborating to open two dedicated hospice suites on the Fairhaven campus, as a “sacred space” where local residents and their families can find peace and comfort, a release said. The partnership was born not only out of necessity, “but from a long-standing mutual respect and shared belief that compassionate care should be available close to home,” the release continued.
Big Bend Hospice expands its mission and services across the Florida Panhandle
01/07/26 at 02:00 AMBig Bend Hospice expands its mission and services across the Florida Panhandle Big Bend Hospice, Tallahassee, FL; by Cristal E. Baer; 1/6/26 ... Beginning in January 2026, hospice services will expand into Jackson, Calhoun and Gulf Counties, marking the first phase of a thoughtful, long-term effort to ensure individuals and families throughout the region have access to the care and support they need. ... This growth represents the first step in a broader, long-term commitment to the Florida Panhandle. While the immediate focus is on delivering exceptional hospice care, the expansion also creates opportunities for future service growth that will further strengthen support for individuals and families throughout the region.
Gwen Whitley reflects on nearly 18 years of service
01/06/26 at 03:00 AMDonna Gregory’s extraordinary people: Gwen Whitley reflects on nearly 18 years of service WWAY News, Leland, NC; by Matt Bennett; 12/29/25 Nearly 18 years ago, Gwen Whitley began working at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, guided by an experience that had changed her life years earlier. ... Whitley said she never viewed leadership as a title, but as a responsibility to patients, families and staff. During her time as CEO, Whitley oversaw several major developments. She points to two accomplishments she is most proud of: the creation of the LifeCare Memory Partners program ... and the organization earning a Five-Star Rating from Medicare in August. ... As she prepares for retirement, Whitley said she plans to remain involved as a volunteer and through the organization’s foundation.
Hospice: Care, commerce, and the cost of a separate category
01/06/26 at 03:00 AMHospice: Care, commerce, and the cost of a separate category The Pine Belt News, Hattiesburg, MS; by Cathy Eaker; 1/5/26 Hospice care is often presented as a compassionate alternative to aggressive medicine—a gentler path that prioritizes comfort, dignity, and peace at the end of life. In theory, it is a humane model. In practice, hospice exists at the intersection of care and commerce, and that intersection deserves far more scrutiny than it receives. ... That does not mean hospice nurses, aides, social workers, or chaplains are unethical. Quite the opposite. Most of the people providing hands-on hospice care have good hearts. They care deeply. They show up. They bathe patients gently, sit at bedsides, hold hands, and witness grief with humanity. The problem is not the caregivers—it is the structure they work within. ...
How private equity is ruining hospice care in the U.S.
01/06/26 at 03:00 AMHow private equity is ruining hospice care in the U.S. Halifax Examiner; by Philip Moscovitch; 12/29/25 ... In a recent study for the Law and Political Economy Project, Elle Rothermich, a senior research fellow at Yale’s Solomon Center for Health Law, looks at how for-profit and private equity firms have come to dominate ... hospice ... in the U.S. Of some 6,000 Medicare-certified hospices in the country, about 4,400 are for-profit affairs. Rothermich writes:
Precision Radiation Oncology Rhode Island and HopeHealth Hospice & Palliative Care announce Collaborative partnership
01/02/26 at 03:15 AMPrecision Radiation Oncology Rhode Island and HopeHealth Hospice & Palliative Care announce Collaborative partnership Today in Business, Providence, RI; Press Release; 12/30/25 Precision Radiation Oncology Rhode Island (PRORI) ... along with HopeHealth, provider of palliative care and hospice services, are proud to announce a new collaborative partnership, aimed at improving quality of life and Precision outcomes for patients undergoing cancer care, beginning January 2026. This collaboration brings together two organizations with complementary missions: delivering state-of-the-art cancer treatment while ensuring compassionate, patient-centered support throughout every stage of the patient’s cancer journey. By working closely together, in a synergistic manner, PRORI and HopeHealth will provide a seamless continuum of cancer care that addresses not only the clinical aspects of cancer treatment, but also the physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs of patients, their families and caregivers.
Hospice reaffirms commitment to care amid new state law
01/02/26 at 03:00 AMHospice reaffirms commitment to care amid new state lawThe Post-Journal, Jamestown, NY; Press Release; 12/31/25 As New York state moves toward the implementation of Medical Aid in Dying legislation, Chautauqua Hospice & Palliative Care (CHPC) is reaffirming its unwavering commitment to supporting individuals and families facing terminal illness with dignity, respect, and compassion. In a recently issued press release, CHPC notes that “... While end-of-life options in New York State are evolving, our mission remains the same: to provide expert care, comfort, and emotional support to those confronting serious illness and loss.” Chautauqua Hospice & Palliative Care does not participate in the provision or administration of Medical Aid in Dying medications. ... As the Medical Aid in Dying law moves forward, CHPC recognizes the importance of clear, compassionate guidance. It has developed educational materials to help patients and families understand the new law and how it intersects with hospice care. For those who choose to explore Medical Aid in Dying, we will continue to offer support, information, and, where appropriate under law and policy, connections to outside providers.
Hospice job vacancy rates fall in 2025; nurse wage gains slow
12/30/25 at 03:00 AMHospice job vacancy rates fall in 2025; nurse wage gains slow Hospice News; by Jim Parker; 12/29/25 Job vacancies among hospice employers dropped to 12.78% in 2025 from 14.03% in 2024. Meanwhile, the rate of pay increases for registered nurses has fallen to 3.58% this year, compared to 2024’s 3.97%. This is according to a new salary and benefits report by the Hospital & Healthcare Compensation Service (HCS), the National Alliance for Care at Home and LeadingAge. The report also identified a decline in registered nurse turnover among hospices, to 25.48% from 26.82% year over year.
Carolina Caring Foundation receives $30,000 grant
12/29/25 at 03:20 AMCarolina Caring Foundation receives $30,000 grant to help families in Burke CountyThe Paper, Morganton, NC; by The Paper Staff; 12/20/25 Burke County families caring for children with serious illnesses will see added support through a $30,000 grant awarded to Carolina Caring Foundation for Cardinal Kids, the region’s pediatric palliative and hospice care program. Carolina Caring Foundation announced it received the grant from Speedway Children’s Charities to help fund services provided through Cardinal Kids. The foundation said this is the third consecutive year Speedway Children’s Charities has selected Carolina Caring Foundation as a grant recipient.
Holistic hospice provider expands to Pinellas County
12/29/25 at 03:05 AMHolistic hospice provider expands to Pinellas County Catalyst; by Mark Parker; 12/24/25 A national end-of-life care company with unique offerings, including pet visits, personal pampering and Memory Bears made from a patient’s clothing, has expanded to Pinellas County. VITAS Healthcare is a nearly 50-year-old mobile hospice provider that takes a holistic approach to providing support during a sensitive time in someone’s life. A new administrative office at 12425 28th St. N. in St. Petersburg serves as a home base for interdisciplinary care teams. Kathleen Coronado, vice president of operations, said VITAS plans to eventually open a local inpatient center “for patients who need a higher level of care.” However, the company’s primary goal is to provide comfort wherever patients call home.
Hospice may offer patients with cancer some peace, comfort and control
12/29/25 at 03:00 AMHospice may offer patients with cancer some peace, comfort and controlCure Today; by Alex Biese; 12/18/25Hospice care emphasizes quality of life and dignity for terminal patients, distinct from palliative care, which can begin at any cancer stage. Disparities in hospice access arise from insurance, geographic, and racial factors, affecting utilization and perceptions of care.
VNA responds to state approval of a new for-profit hospice provider in Indian River County
12/29/25 at 03:00 AMVNA responds to state approval of a new for-profit hospice provider in Indian River County VeroNews.com, Vero Beach, FL; by Community Submission; 12/23/25 The Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of the Treasure Coast is responding to today’s announcement by the State of Florida approving a for-profit hospice provider to begin serving Indian River County in early 2026. The newly authorized provider will join a community that VNA has exclusively served with nonprofit hospice care for nearly 40 years. The approval follows a statewide Florida Need Projections review conducted by the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) ... VNA has long met—and continues to meet—the hospice needs of residents across Vero Beach, Sebastian and Fellsmere.
New York Gov. Hochul vetos bill banning for-profit hospices
12/29/25 at 02:00 AMNew York Gov. Hochul vetos bill banning for-profit hospices Hospice News; by Jim Parker; 12/23/25 New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) has vetoed legislation that would have effectively banned new for-profit hospices in the state. The New York State Assembly passed the bill earlier this month and submitted it to the governor’s office. It would have prohibited the establishment of for-profit hospices in New York state and forbid current for-profit operators from increasing capacity. Currently only two for-profit hospices operate in New York state. Hochul previously vetoed similar legislation in 2022, citing low hospice utilization in the Empire State.
Hospice House reopens after $3.5M in renovations
12/29/25 at 02:00 AMHospice House reopens after $3.5M in renovations Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business; by TCA JOB Staff; 12/25/25 After several months of renovations, Tri-Cities Chaplaincy’s Hospice House is hosting a Dec. 29 ribbon-cutting to celebrate its reopening. The nearly 30-year-old building at 2108 W. Entiat Ave., Kennewick, helps care for hospice patients for short-term stays to help with severe symptoms or to give caregivers a break. The $3.5 million renovation created a larger nurse station, an expanded front entryway, added a fireside room to honor loved ones, upgraded family gathering areas and enhanced patient rooms. “This renovation ensures it will continue to serve families with compassion, comfort, and dignity for decades to come,” said Laurie Jackson, CEO of Tri-Cities Chaplaincy.
Hospice of Michigan receives $10,000 grant for pediatric hospice care
12/26/25 at 03:00 AMHospice of Michigan receives $10,000 grant for pediatric hospice care Ludington Daily News, Manistee, MI; 12/20/25Hospice of Michigan has received a $10,000 grant from the Manistee County Community Foundation to support its Jo Elyn Nyman Anchors Programs for Children, which provide specialized pediatric hospice care for children with life-limiting illnesses and their families. The grant will help fund medical, emotional, social and spiritual support services delivered through the not-for-profit’s pediatric hospice programs. Hospice of Michigan is the only statewide hospice provider offering specialized pediatric hospice care services in northeast Michigan.
10 ‘hidden gem’ Hospice News stories from 2025
12/26/25 at 03:00 AM10 ‘hidden gem’ Hospice News stories from 2025 Hospice News; by Jim Parker; 12/19/25 While reimbursement, regulation and large M&A deals dominated the headlines this year, several other significant trends also emerged. Below are 10 noteworthy Hospice News stories that flew under the radar. ...
Flossmoor foundation funds last wishes for hospice patients, boost for nursing students
12/26/25 at 02:30 AMFlossmoor foundation funds last wishes for hospice patients, boost for nursing students Chicago Tribune, Chicago, IL; by Janice Neumann; 12/24/25 A foundation that was created to help hospice patients and their loved ones handle medical costs is also providing comfort when families need it most. Often, that comes in the form of resources to make the most of their remaining time. ... Formed in 2021, the Oasis Foundation raises money for education, well being, community events, funerals and transportation, officials said. It also funds a program called Hearts Desires, which endeavors to provide for patients’ last wishes requests.
[Australia] Posthumous effort helps 'Santa Al' raise $100,000
12/26/25 at 02:00 AM[Canada] Posthumous effort helps 'Santa Al' raise $100,000 Pique News Magazine, British Columbia, Canada; by Roxanne Egan-Elliott; 12/24/25 With a white beard, rosy cheeks and a sparkle in his eye, Alan Paterson was known to many year-round as Santa Al. ... He started donating all proceeds from his Santa appearances to support Victoria Hospice’s services to show his gratitude for the compassionate care his wife, Sharon, received in 2009 at the end of her life. Over 15 years, Paterson raised more than $84,000 for the hospice. He wanted to bring that total to $100,000 this holiday season, but Paterson died on Sept. 29 at the age of 79. Paterson’s family continued his legacy of giving by inviting loved ones to honour his life with donations to the hospice to help him reach his goal. His fundraising pagerecently passed $100,000.
Redmond family honors late husband with holiday trees for cancer patients
12/23/25 at 03:30 AMRedmond family honors late husband with holiday trees for cancer patients NBC KING-5, Redmond, WA; by Anne Erickson; 12/15/25 Every December, Linda Pankow's Redmond home fills with volunteers, friends and family for a 25-year tradition born from loss. "I like the mayhem," Pankow said with a smile. The group decorates more than 100 small holiday trees destined for cancer and hospice patients at Evergreen Health. "It's hard around holidays when you've lost somebody," Pankow said. Her husband, Rick, a nursery owner, died from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma at age 43. The tree-decorating project became a way to honor his memory and his love of trees. "Doing this and knowing my husband loved trees because he was a nursery person, it just kind of brings me joy," Pankow said. "It's a good memory of him and a tribute to him." The tradition has grown to include multiple generations. This year, Rick's two-month-old great-nephew Milar joined the effort.
UVM hospice team holds “Honk and Wave” protest over contract negotiations
12/23/25 at 03:00 AMUVM hospice team holds “Honk and Wave” protest over contract negotiations NBC 5, Burlington, VT; by Yunier Martinez; 12/21/25 Nurses and supporters held a “Honk and Wave” protest Saturday along Shelburne Road to build community support for the hospice union’s ongoing contract negotiations. "We want the community to know the value of the work we do," says nurse practitioner Lindsay Gerdeman. ... A spokesperson for the hospital released the following statement: "... We value our hospice team and understand that negotiating for a first contract will take time. ..." Negotiations are set to resume in January.
Community comes together for hospice patient’s motorcycle ride wish
12/23/25 at 03:00 AMCommunity comes together for hospice patient’s motorcycle ride wish 29 News, Charlottesville, VA; by Gabby Womak; 12/18/25 A 41-year-old hospice patient got his wish Thursday, December 18, when Hospice of the Piedmont and Stonewall Harley-Davidson helped arrange for him to ride a motorcycle one more time. Kevin Olague, a patient with Hospice of the Piedmont, had one simple request: to feel the road again. “Even in the middle of dying, I’ve never felt so alive than when I’m on a bike,” Olague said. “I don’t know. It’s just freedom. It’s somewhere between flying a plane and skydiving. There’s just nothing like it.” Hospice of the Piedmont worked with Stonewall Harley-Davidson in Ruckersville to make the ride happen, with Olague’s loved ones watching.
Hospice News’ 10 most-read stories of 2025
12/23/25 at 03:00 AMHospice News’ 10 most-read stories of 2025 Hospice News; by Jim Parker; 12/19/25 Large acquisitions, regulatory headwinds and the fate of COVID-era telehealth flexibilities were top-of-mind issues for hospice providers in 2025, as evidenced by the 10 most-read Hospice News stories of the year. ... The following are the 10 most-read Hospice News articles of 2025.
Festival of Trees raises $315K for Aspirus hospice and family care
12/23/25 at 02:30 AMFestival of Trees raises $315K for Aspirus hospice and family care Wausau Daily Herald, Wausau, WI; by Nida Tazeen; 12/20/25 The 2025 Festival of Trees raised $315,000, marking a record for the annual event, according to an announcement from the Aspirus Health Foundation. The fundraiser, held during Thanksgiving week, welcomed more than 3,800 guests to the Central Wisconsin Convention + EXPO Center in Rothschild. Attendees viewed more than 230 decorated trees, wreaths, mantels and specialty displays donated by community members, families, businesses and organizations. The decorations were featured in raffles, silent and live auctions and special events throughout the week.
Seven-figure estate gift bolsters hospice care: Madeline Childs' generous bequest honors her late husband
12/23/25 at 01:00 AMSeven-figure estate gift bolsters hospice care: Madeline Childs' generous bequest honors her late husband Hometown News, Rockledge, FL; Press Release; 12/7/25 The Health First Foundation is honored to announce a transformational seven-figure planned gift from the late Madeline Childs to support the William Childs Hospice House in Palm Bay and Hospice of Health First’s inpatient hospice programs. Madeline’s final act of generosity reflects a commitment that began more than two decades ago. In 2002, her husband, Bill, received hospice care during his final days. The experience was brief, but it left a lasting imprint on her. Out of that moment of personal loss, Madeline chose to give back by establishing an irrevocable estate gift that would ultimately lead to the naming of the William Childs Hospice House in Bill’s memory.