A LETTER FROM OUR DIRECTOR

Thank you for giving me the privilege to tell you more about MedCentral’s HomeCare and Hospice Program.

MedCentral Hospice is in the business of caring for others. We are honored to compassionately extend MedCentral's Expert Care from the hospital to patients' homes. If you have ever been a hospice caregiver, the act of caring is brave, private and, many times, a true labor of love. Caregivers are seldom beacons of light that shine for everyone to see; rather their light shines on the very personal path of the one who is receiving care.

One day, I was talking to Val Halamandaris, president and CEO of The National Association of Home Care & Hospice. We were discussing a myriad of things, such as the birth of Medicare in 1965, legislation he helped to write; past and present Congressional heroes for Homecare and Hospice; and the incredible people who daily quietly care for others.

The topic on uncommon caring led us to discuss the well-regarded Caring Institute and its esteemed Caring Award recipients. He said that Mother Theresa, the ultimate caregiver, once told him that she was nothing more than "God's pencil." He also reminded me of something very important—to see with the "eyes of the heart."

The staff at MedCentral Hospice do see with the eyes of their hearts, whether they are work directly with patients or in the office.

Quality, Customer Service, Teamwork and Innovation, MedCentral's four pillars, are fundamental supports for our Hospice program.

Quality
Although the federal government has never required hospices to participate in a formal quality-reporting program, MedCentral Hospice collects quality data which we use to make performance improvement decisions. We follow up on information we receive from patient and physician satisfaction surveys and make adjustments when warranted.

Customer Service
"The homecare aides were very good, friendly and caring…the social worker was very nice…the nurse gave wonderful care, was supportive physically and spiritually."

MedCentral Hospice consistently receives positive comments like the above from patients and families we serve. Customer satisfaction is important to us because it reflects how our patients and their families perceive us. We are proud of what people say about the care we give.

Teamwork
I have always been in awe over the teamwork phenomenon—that together, ordinary people are able to accomplish extraordinary things. The MedCentral Hospice team works hard, forging ahead with restructuring efforts and embracing change along the way. Because of teamwork, perseverance, stamina, courage and innovative spirits, we have successfully accomplished or made tremendous headway on our goals.

Innovation
Each year, we set goals for what we ultimately want to accomplish for Hospice. These goals challenge and require us to "think outside the box," as we are constantly charged with improving performance, efficiency and costs.

MedCentral Hospice is the definition of expert, compassionate care in your home, and we will be there to comfort, relieve pain and symptoms, get necessary home equipment and hold a hand in fellowship. The staff at MedCentral Hospice sees with the eyes of the heart.

Call 419-526-8442 for information on referrals.

LEARN MORE

Angel Tickets
Bereavement Services and Support Groups
Fundraisers for MedCentral HomeCare/Hospice
Planned Giving
Respite Care
Ways You Can Support MedCentral Hospice