When we think of health care breakthroughs, we usually think of new surgical procedures or miracle drugs, not hospice care. Hospice’s story, however, is unique and remarkable. In just a little more than three decades, hospice has quietly revolutionized the way people in America live at the end of their lives by honoring wishes, bringing peace and dignity.

Many people, until they experience it themselves, do not understand the profound support and comfort hospice provides. Caring for a loved one can be rewarding and fulfilling for those who are able to see the experience as a final act of love. For others, however, it can be a lonely and often frustrating responsibility. Tidewell Hospice’s professionals bring their own special touch for both – enhancing the experience for the former and easing the burden on the latter.

As your only local, not-for-profit hospice, Tidewell focuses on quality of life when quantity is no longer possible. When patients and families choose Tidewell, they receive care unlike any other. Tidewell goes to the patient, treats pain and symptoms and eases emotional and spiritual suffering. A team of dedicated health care experts and members of the community make it possible – doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, volunteers and grief specialists.

Hospice is a philosophy – a program of care and support wherever patients need us. Home-based comfort care is the basic premise, and the reassurance of being at home, surrounded by loved ones and personal belongings is a cornerstone of hospice care.

Nearly all family caregivers experience physical and emotional stress. In order to continue in their role and still maintain their own well being, they need to be surrounded by compassionate support from professional caregivers. That has long been Tidewell's focus, which places the patient and family together at the center of care.

The costs of hospice services for most are covered under Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance plans, HMOs and other managed care organizations. In addition, because of generous community contributions and memorial donations, Tidewell is able to provide services to patients, regardless of their ability to pay.