Tidewell Hospice Nation’s First Hospice to Receive American Nurses Association Accreditation for Nurse Residency Program
Empath Health - MSC
Mar 27, 2024
Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties
Email US
Click to Email Us
BRADENTON – The Tidewell Hospice Nurse Residency Program has just made history as the first hospice-only residency program in the country to receive prestigious accreditation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Commission.
At Tidewell Hospice, a member of Empath Health, the Nurse Residency Program is a transformative 12-month journey crafted to educate, empower, and nurture registered nurses with less than one year of experience in the hospice domain. Nurses graduate from the program with hospice skills in both the home and in-patient settings and are guaranteed placement on one of Tidewell Hospice’s esteemed care teams.
The accreditation on Accreditation in Practice Transition Programs is a testament to the program’s excellence. The ANCC particularly applauded the program’s unique “family atmosphere” preceptor model, robust support systems, and its commitment to cultural integration and retention efforts, all of which set a new standard in the industry.
Through the Nurse Residency Program, Tidewell attracts and nurtures exceptional nursing talent, equipping them with specialized skills and providing a clear career path, ensuring a top nursing staff for years to come. Unlike traditional routes that often require a year of nursing experience before entering hospice care, this program offers a direct gateway for new nurses who are passionate about hospice care right out of school.
Brianna DeLaRosa, MSW, LCSW, Empath Health Vice President of Organizational Development & Learning, says the program addresses a critical need in the hospice space. “Many nurses graduate with a desire to work in end-of-life care but have not yet been educated with the essential skills for this type of work,” said DeLaRosa. “The Tidewell Nurse Residency Program empowers graduates with both the clinical and social-emotional skills to provide transformative care to our hospice patients.”
Empath Health’s vision extends beyond Tidewell Hospice. The organization seeks to expand the Nurse Residency Program to its other hospice affiliates across Florida, including Suncoast Hospice, Suncoast Hospice of Hillsborough, Hospice of Marion County and Empath Hospice.
To qualify for this program, nurses must hold a valid Florida or multistate RN license, have graduated from an accredited nursing program and have less than one year of experience. Tidewell nurse residents receive comprehensive training, including six months in a hospice house setting with a dedicated clinical coach, classroom education on hospice topics and real time training in a state-of-the-art simulation lab.
The success of the Tidewell Hospice Nurse Residency Program, including the salaries of preceptors and residents, is made possible thanks to the generous financial support of Tidewell Foundation donors. Notably, Julie Osborne, a passionate donor and volunteer, played a pivotal role in kickstarting the program and contributing to the creation of the innovative simulation lab.
“It’s gratifying to know that the gifts I have made continue to impact so many lives and make such a difference. Although I have moved from the area, my heart will always be with Tidewell,” said Osborne.
Tidewell Hospice, founded in 1980 as the sole non-profit hospice in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties, touches the lives of nearly 3,000 patients daily. Offering a wide range of medical treatments, integrative medicine, counseling, caregiver education, and advance care planning, Tidewell Hospice stands as a beacon of compassionate care. Specialized services for veterans, pediatric patients, heart failure patients, and dedicated teams focusing on diverse communities further underscore Tidewell’s commitment to excellence in hospice care.
###
ABOUT EMPATH HEALTH
Empath Health is one of the country’s largest not-for-profit health systems delivering non-acute care and services through its skilled, medical and holistic programs to individuals with chronic, advanced and terminal illnesses and those experiencing grief. The Empath Health integrated network of care provides expert medical, counseling and support services including hospice; home health; palliative care; grief services; all-inclusive elder care; HIV/STI prevention services and support; primary care; physician services; and full-service pharmacy and durable medical equipment (DME). Empath Health is honored to have approximately 26,000 people enrolled in our Full Life Care services in north central, west central and southwest Florida. We have nearly 130 combined years of experience serving individuals during some of their most vulnerable times. Our wide variety of community-based programs reflects our commitment to the preservation of our charitable mission.
ABOUT TIDEWELL HOSPICE
Tidewell Hospice, a member of Empath Health, is an independent, not-for-profit health provider offering a home-centered, comprehensive system of end-of-life and palliative care for people living with advanced illness and their families. Annually, Tidewell provides care for more than 10,000 patients throughout Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties with hospice houses and offices in Arcadia, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Palmetto, Port Charlotte, Sarasota and Venice. As the region’s only not-for-profit hospice, Tidewell relies on donations to provide acclaimed patient and community services. Tidewell is accredited by the Community Health Accreditation Partner (CHAP) with deemed status, signifying excellent care.
- To view the original version of this article visit empathhealth.org/tidewell-hospice-nations-first-hospice-to-receive-american-nurses-association-accreditation-for-nurse-residency-program/
- Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.
Other Articles You May Like
A Special Visit: Meals on Wheels America President & CEO Joins Florida Chapter Conference
It was a momentous occasion in Bradenton on May 1, 2025, as we welcomed a very special guest Ellie Hollander, President & CEO of Meals on Wheels America. Her visit was more than ceremonial; it was a heartfelt celebration of community, service, and the vital work being done across Florida to nourish and support our seniors.Ellie flew in from the Washington, D.C. area as the keynote speaker for the Meals on Wheels Florida annual conference, proudly hosted this year by Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. Ellies schedule was packed, but that did not stop her from doing an interview with MySuncoast ABC-7 telling viewers how critical the meal program is to our homebound seniors. Next, Ellie hit the road and delivered meals to some of our senior clients and talked with our volunteers. Ellie also stopped by our Friendship Dining Center program, and participated in a music game the clients love.The Members of the Florida Chapter of Meals on Wheels America named Maribeth Phillips, our President & CEO, as their Board President earlier this year. Maribeth invited Ellie to attend and kickoff the conference. Ellie shared valuable insights with the members in attendance, and her words reenergized the room!The conference included meal providers from across the state, with over 20 different organizations attending. Attendees also heard from Bob Blancato, Executive Director of NANASP, also from Washington, D.C.; Bradenton Police Detective, Jim Curulla on senior scams; Sandra Tapfumaneyi, Chief of Emergency Management Sarasota; Louise Gallagher on Senior Mental Health; and Jennifer Huber from FPL. Chef2Home provided a delicious breakfast and lunch.We are proud to be part of the national network of Meals on Wheels America and grateful to be a part of the state-wide chapter, Meals on Wheels Florida, both working every day to ensure no senior goes hungry.
Help Fight Summer Hunger in Manatee County
As summer approaches, many children in our community are looking forward to sunshine, fun, and time with friends. But for far too many, summer brings something else-hunger.When school cafeterias close for the summer, thousands of local children lose access to the nutritious meals they depend on. Families already struggling to make ends meet are faced with even more pressure. The emotional toll is real. No parent should have to worry if they can feed their child, and no child should go to bed with an empty stomach.At The Food Bank of Manatee, we are stepping up to meet the need. We partner with over 100 local food pantries across Manatee County to reach the families who need us mostbut we cant do it alone.This summer, our goal is to provide: 22,500 meals each week across the 9-week summer break. Thats more than 200,000 meals for children and familiesand every dollar makes a difference.Just $15 provides 10 meals; $30 provides 20 meals; a gift of $150 will provide 100 meals!We know that many in our community want to make a difference. With your support, we can ensure no child goes hungry during the summer months.Please consider making a gift today and sharing this message with others who want to help too. A link to our page is below. A $25,000 Matching Gift to feed children this summer has been offered by an anonymous fund at Manatee Community Foundation. Gifts will be matched $1 for $1 up to $25,000.The Food Bank of Manatee is the only food bank based in our county. We anticipate continued need as families look for nutritional support. Your help matters now more than ever! Please give today!Together, we can bring relief, peace of mind, and full bellies to those who need it most.
Celebrating the Heart of Our Mission: Volunteer Luncheon Honors Our Outstanding Volunteers
On Monday, April 7, 2025, we had the joy and honor of hosting our annual Volunteer Luncheon, a heartfelt celebration dedicated to the incredible individuals who make our mission possible each and every day. Held in a spirit of gratitude and community, the event brought together volunteers with over 100 hours of service for a beautiful luncheon provided by Metz Chef 2 Home. The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to several outstanding volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their service. From delivering meals with a smile to lending a helping hand wherever needed, these volunteers embody the true spirit of giving.The 2025 award recipients included:Champions Circle: Ten Years of ServiceDan WilhelmChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServiceTerri HillChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServicePat McDonaldOutstanding Food Bank Volunteer: Terri HillOutstanding Volunteer Ambassador: Veronica Brandon-MillerOutstanding Youth Volunteer: Jonathan MaassenMost Generous Group Ambassador: Lakewood Ranch Elks LodgeOutstanding Volunteer Group: First WatchOutstanding Administrative Volunteer: Barbara BrownOutstanding Friendship Dining Center Volunteer: Pam O ConnorOutstanding Car Loader: Charlie GunnOutstanding Warehouse Volunteer: Lana PaulRookies of the Year: Jeff and Christy MohlerOutstanding Daybreak Adult Day Center Volunteer: Larry BreidenbachOutstanding Telephone Reassurance Volunteer: Reina HuertaVolunteer of the Year: Terri HillTo every volunteer who gives their time and heartthank you. Our Volunteers are the reason we are able to serve our neighbors in need with care, dignity, and hope. We look forward to another year of making a difference together.
Local Services By This Author
Empath Tidewell Hospice
Hospice 5955 Rand Boulevard, Sarasota, Florida, 34238Care, Guidance and Human Connection for the Fullest LifeSince 1980, Tidewell Hospice has provided the highest quality care to patients and families living with advanced illness, while honoring human dignity and personal choice. Tidewell strives to treat the whole person fulfilling physical, psychosocial and spiritual needs and views our patients and their loved ones as a unit. You are invited to explore all the programs and services Tidewell has to offer. You will discover Tidewell is really about building relationships providing the comfort and support to deal with complex and difficult issues while finding joy in each day.
.jpg)
Empath Tidewell Hospice
Hospice 5955 Rand Blvd, Sarasota, Florida, 34238Tidewell believes that a selection of care and service options along a healthcare continuum provides choice and easy access to those seeking hospice care and palliative support. Emphasizing patient choice and dignity, Tidewell provides its services to all, regardless of race, creed, culture, gender, sexual orientation or ability to pay. Tidewell is committed to the advancement of services that support the ebb and flow of life as a normal part of life's journey and is committed to optimizing comfort for patients and families. Through education and research, Tidewell fosters the advancement of hospice care and palliative services on the local, state and national levels. Tidewell maintains fiduciary responsibility to develop the financial resources necessary to fulfill its mission.
Empath Tidewell Hospice
Support Groups & Services 5955 Rand Blvd, Sarasota, Florida, 34238Tidewell believes that a selection of care and service options along a healthcare continuum provides choice and easy access to those seeking hospice care and palliative support. Emphasizing patient choice and dignity, Tidewell provides its services to all, regardless of race, creed, culture, gender, sexual orientation or ability to pay. Tidewell is committed to the advancement of services that support the ebb and flow of life as a normal part of life's journey and is committed to optimizing comfort for patients and families. Through education and research, Tidewell fosters the advancement of hospice care and palliative services on the local, state and national levels. Tidewell maintains fiduciary responsibility to develop the financial resources necessary to fulfill its mission.