SHARON LUCAS, LCSW • 627 Shenandoah St. Thousand Oaks CA 91360 • (805) 241-5505 • info@compassionatecareconsulting.com




 


The Challenge Today
Recent research studies indicate that approximately 75% of all Americans will die in institutions. Research also indicates that this is not the preferred place of death for most Americans. This, in addition to an aging population with chronic health conditions, calls for an institutional response to address these unique and growing needs. Palliative care is interdisciplinary care to reduce symptom burden, suffering and to improve quality of life. It addresses physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs,while often complimenting disease modifying treatment.This comprehensive approach speaks to the multifaceted concerns of today's and tomorrow's patients.

End-of-Life and Palliative Care programs have become a national priority for hospitals. According to a recent report from the Center to Advance Palliative Care (CAPC) in 2008 54.8% of hospitals in the U.S. with 50 or more beds have palliative care programs. This is over a 100% increase since 2000, highlighting not only the cost effectiveness of these programs but the growth and specialization of Palliative Medicine as a distinct discipline to manage complex illness through the course of the disease. The Joint Commission now has a special accreditation process for Palliative Care programs. Patient satisfaction studies show that Palliative Care programs enhance the patient’s and family’s hospital experience. With the onset of an aging population that will likely live longer, know more about their disease and demand more in conversation with their healthcare team , Palliative Care programs both in and out of the hospital setting will be a factor in patient choice.

Compassionate Care Consulting can help you by customizing a Palliative Care and comprehensive End-of-Life program designed to meet the unique needs of your hospital, its healthcare staff, patients and families. Contact us now for your complimentary consulting assessment.