HOSPICE CARE
We believe in living your best life at every stage. During stages of serious illness, Tri-Cities Chaplaincy is here to help make that possible.
Hospice care is a highly specialized form of care designed to help anyone with a life-limiting illness make the most of their final months. It combines pain and symptom management with emotional and spiritual support to help patients live the remainder of their life in comfort and dignity, surrounded by those they love.
How to Begin Hospice Care
We provide hospice care in Richland, Kennewick, Pasco and surrounding areas in Benton & Franklin Counties.
You do not need a doctor’s referral to begin hospice care. You can refer yourself or a loved one any time, 24/7.
If you are ready to begin care, call us at (509) 783-7416. You can also submit an online referral by clicking the button below.
When to Begin Hospice Care
Hospice is for those who have a life expectancy of six months or less. Hospice works best for patients who begin receiving care as early as possible, rather than waiting for the final days. An early referral:
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- Helps our care team get to know the patient and their family.
- Allows nurses to manage pain and get physical symptoms under control.
- Gives chaplains the opportunity to address spiritual needs or suffering.
- Provides time for social workers to assist with emotional support.
- Reduces crises and trips to the hospital.
Knowing the Signs and Symptoms
There are signs and symptoms that can help you know when it’s time to begin hospice care. They include:
- Physical decline and loss of function
- More frequent ER visits or hospitalization
- Dependency on others for help in most daily-living tasks
- Notable weight loss
- A desire for comfort care rather than treatment
If you are still unsure whether or not it’s time to begin hospice care, our nurses are here to discuss your exact needs, address your concerns and answer any questions. You can request more information online or by calling (509) 783-7416.
Our Team of Experts
Our comprehensive team of experts develop a care plan that is centered around each patient’s wishes. Our care team includes:
Medical Director
Tri-Cities Chaplaincy has a full-time Medical Director who oversees each patient’s plan of care.
Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner
Our advanced registered nurse practitioner works with other members of the patient’s care team to ensure that the patient is receiving proper care for their conditions. They can prescribe treatments, order tests and diagnose patients.
Nurses
Our nurses visit patients in their homes to assess medical needs. They help manage pain and physical symptoms. They have regularly scheduled visits but can be contacted for unexpected needs any time, 24/7.
Chaplains
Our hospice chaplains provide spiritual care to the patient and their loved ones. They address spiritual needs or suffering to all, regardless of their faith or religious affiliation, including those with no faith.
Social Workers
Our social workers provide patients and families with emotional support. They listen to concerns and offer guidance and resources.
Certified Nursing Assistants
Our certified nursing assistants make regular visits to patient homes. They assist with comfort care and personal care, including bathing and hygiene.
Bereavement Specialist
Hospice does not end once the patient dies. Our Bereavement Specialists offer free grief care to patient families following the death.
Volunteers
Our volunteers are available to support patients in a number of ways; they can provide companionship, run errands, assist with housekeeping and more.
How is Hospice Paid For?
Hospice services are covered by:
- The Medicare/Medicaid Hospice Benefit.
- Most insurance plans, HMOs, and managed care plans.
- Our giving community. Thanks to generous community support and donations, Tri-Cities Chaplaincy provides hospice care to anyone who needs it, regardless of their ability to pay.
All approved prescriptions, equipment and supplies related to the patient’s plan of care are also covered in full while on hospice.
Where Do Patients Receive Care?
Patients receive care from wherever they call home, including:
- Private Residences (in-home hospice care)
- Skilled Nursing Facilities
- Assisted Living Facilites
- Adult Family Homes
For patients who experience uncontrolled pain or symptoms, our home-like Hospice House is available to provide short-term 24-hour nursing care.
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