Palliative care focuses on keeping an individual comfortable and pain-free when the disease processes they are experiencing are not curable, and/or active treatment has been discontinued.

We understand the difficult times those in our care and their loved ones go through in preparation for the end of life. At these times, hospice services may be a good option. Working together with SMP Health – St. Raphael staff, hospice representatives strive to help maximize the resident’s comfort and control their pain and other symptoms as they go through the process of preparing for death. Hospice also provides additional spiritual and emotional support to the resident and their loved ones during this time.

A hospice representative will perform an initial assessment to see if the person qualifies for hospice services, including the availability of coverage under Medicare, Medicaid, and/or other third party payers. If the individual is determined to be appropriate, hospice services can be initiated. A plan of care is developed jointly between SMP Health – St. Raphael staff, the hospice provider, and the resident and their family.

It is important to note that if/when hospice comes into the picture, the services they provide are in addition to those already being provided by SMP Health – St. Raphael staff. Everyone involved works closely together for the benefit of the resident and their loved ones.