Understanding the Circle of Care

Hospice of Southern Illinois Circle of Care

            At Hospice of Southern Illinois it is our mission and goal to keep patients, families and caregivers at the heart of the circle of care and then surround them with a specialized, compassionate and multi-disciplinary team including physicians, nurses, social workers, bereavement counselors and volunteers. This team supports the center of the circle of care and works together to address the physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs of each patient and family. The circle of care should always keep the patient’s needs and wants first and foremost.

This special healthcare option for patients and families who are faced with a terminal illness seems like an overwhelming process, however with the support of the multi-disciplinary team and providing care to patients in their own home or a home-like setting regardless of the patient’s age or ability to pay offers comfort and relief that is often needed at the end-of-life. 

Physicians, including your primary doctor and our Medical Director, play a role in the plan of care. They can either work together or independently (based on patient’s needs and wants) to determine care options, medications and equipment. Registered Nurses and hospice aides work together to provide care through regularly scheduled visits. Nurses, who specialize in end-of-life care, provide the highest quality of compassionate care to patients. Hospice aides offer assistance with everyday needs like personal care and feeding. Social workers, bereavement counselors and spiritual support offer a unique system which addresses challenges as end-of-life nears, providing stress relief to patients and families that may be associated with terminal illness and offering support before and after the death of a loved one. Last but not least, volunteers complete the circle by offering their time and talents to help patients and families. Furthermore, they assist clinical and clerical staff with various projects and care with special training.

Hopefully this helps explain the circle of care and who is involved in the hospice process. We are here to surround the patients and families with quality services, compassionate care and peace of mind. Help us share, educate, and reach out by subscribing to our blog and suggesting it to friends who will spread our message: Hospice of Southern Illinois is here to teach you what hospice is, what we are about, and what we can do for you and your loved ones. No one has to go through the dying process alone. Hospice of Southern Illinois can help.

Live well, laugh often, and love much,

Christine Juehne

Hospice of Southern Illinois

Community Education

1-800-233-1708

www.hospice.org