Empath Tidewell Hospice

Jacqueline Harvey, vice president of Talent Acquisition for Empath Health, is charged with finding leading talent for an ever-growing organization that provides hospice, home health, palliative care, primary care, elder-care services, sexual wellness and bereavement services in 18 Florida counties.By Karen Davis-Pritchett M.Ed., Empath Health Vice President of Diversity, Equity and InclusionST. PETERSBURG Empath Healths new vice president of Talent Acquisition earned her bachelors degree in psychology from Georgia Southern University and a masters degree in organizational management from the University of Phoenix.In her new role, Jacqueline Harvey is charged with finding leading talent for an ever-growing organization that provides hospice, home health, palliative care, primary care, elder-care services, sexual wellness and bereavement services in 18 Florida counties.Harvey, who has 20 years of experience recruiting talent, joined Empath Health in March after spending the last eight years at Miami Jewish Health.While every position is crucial to the organizations success, Harvey is particularly focused on hiring the best clinical colleagues.The priority is driving talent to the front line for patient-care purposes, Harvey said. The Talent Acquisition team indirectly touch the lives of our patient/participants.The countrys nursing shortage has made healthcare recruiting a highly competitive endeavor. Harvey said Empaths not-for-profit, mission-oriented approach resonates with the top clinical candidates.There are still prospective candidates interested in working for a like-minded organization in terms of mission, vision and how the organization will support them as an employee. Even though its a competitive market, I believe we have a very attractive culture, she said.Empath Health also values diversity in its hiring practices. Harvey recognizes that ensuring diversity, equity and inclusion is a complex process, a point she said her brother Curtis Johnson, a leader in academia who specializes in DEI initiatives, drove home during a spirited Thanksgiving discussion a few years ago. She vows to lean on DEI professionals at Empath for their expertise in guaranteeing equal access.Harvey knows how vital diversity is to an organization that serves a multi-faceted patient base like Empath Health.Diversity of thought, diversity of knowledge, diversity of perspective, diversity of experience, all place Empath in a position to best serve our community, she said.

During National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, in November, a time at Empath Health when we celebrate what makes the care and support provided by our hospice programs unique. Suncoast Hospice, Suncoast Hospice of Hillsborough and Tidewell Hospice combine for more than 90 years of experience delivering world-class care to patients and those who love them.The foundation of the hospice philosophy is a team-oriented approach to care. The model features expert medical treatment, symptom control and pain management along with support for emotional, spiritual and social needs of the patient and family.We asked two leaders of the Suncoast Hospice Orange Team, Care Team Manager Mary Northrup and Pyschosocial Team Leader Cheryl Libera, to describe the benefits of the team approach.The Orange Team, which cares for about 150 patients in southernmost Pinellas County, is one of five Suncoast Hospice teams dedicated to home-based patients and their families. There are five other teams that provide care for patients and families in care centers, assisted-living and long-term care facilities and hospitals.Northrup said working together in an interdisciplinary environment allows each member of the care team to focus on their expertise.I address medical issues, she said. My job is to make you as comfortable as you want to be. Some of the other things like depression and sadness and all the other things social workers address, thats not on my radar. They (social workers) are more the head and the heart, and mines more the rest of the body. If you just had one person going in, youd miss all those things. Youd miss the spiritual things, the volunteer opportunities, all of the other things everyone else brings in. I couldnt imagine this hospice without the team approach.Said Libera, Were constantly collaborating with the nurses and they with us.RNs and Social WorkersUpon a patients admission to Suncoast Hospice, the Orange Team schedules a meeting for a registered nurse (RN) and social worker with the patient and primary caregiver. The RN and social worker attend the meeting together to provide a thorough explanation of hospice care and what to expect at the end of life.At that first visit, the RN and social worker assess the patients and caregivers needs. If they need a home health aide or certified nursing assistant, spiritual counseling from a spiritual care coordinator or a volunteer to provide companionship, respite or other services, it will be provided. The RN also can refer a patient outside the Orange Team to Suncoast Hospice physical, speech, occupational or respiratory therapy. Integrative medicine, such as music therapy, also is available.I always explain in that first visit about the end of life and what happens and letting them know that the only phone call they need to make is to us, Libera said. Well handle everything else. Thats a tremendous relief for them. You can just see it.The RN and social worker lead the patients care plan. The nurse normally visits once per week, while the social worker stops by twice per month. The frequency of visits vary based on the needs of the patient.Guiding the care plan is the question What Matters Most. Whatever the patient needs that day, from pain and symptom management to depression to a special last wish, will be at the top of the teams to-do list.Following are descriptions of other key members of the hospice care teams.Physician, APRNsThe team has a hospice physician and an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) on staff. They are available for medication management, symptom control, crisis care and wound care. They make house calls when needed.Home Health Aides/Certified Nursing AssistantsSuncoast Hospice provides patients a home health aide (HHA) or certified nursing assistant (CNA) for up to five days per week. The HHA or CNA offers assistance with bathing and hygiene and can do light housekeeping chores.Spiritual Care CoordinatorA non-denominational spiritual care coordinator is available to discuss spiritual issues with patients and families. They can refer a patient to a Catholic priest or Jewish rabbi if requested. The spiritual care coordinator and social worker collaborate to meet any bereavement needs of family members before the patient passes away. They also stay in touch with the family for the first three months after the patients death until Suncoast Hospice bereavement services begin.VolunteersA volunteer coordinator connects with the patient and caregiver after the initial meeting with the RN and social worker to offer services provided by a robust group of Suncoast Hospice volunteers. Volunteers run errands, help with transportation and visit patients to allow caregivers an opportunity to leave home for short periods. Veteran to Veteran volunteers offer special service and honors to veteran patients, and teen volunteers deliver birthday boxes to brighten a patients day.To find out more about Suncoast Hospice and its team approach to hospice care, visit SuncoastHospice.org/Our-Team-Approach.

mid talks to raise the U.S. debt ceiling, reducing federal spending is squarely on the table. While much focus is on discretionary funding and other policies, potential Medicare cuts never seem far from the discussion -- whether creeping into the debt limit debate or down the road. Now more than ever, policymakers should be aware of Medicare program benefits that save taxpayer dollars, while also enhancing care for some of the most vulnerable among us.Based on recent researchopens in a new tab or window conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago, we know that hospice serves the taxpayer by increasing value and reducing costs, which contributed to $3.5 billion in savings to Medicare in 2019. The study also highlights the potential to significantly expand savings through earlier access to hospice services.The Medicare hospice benefit provides end-of-life care and support to millions of seriously ill Americans and their families every year. For more than 40 years, hospice providers have helped ensure that patients receive quality end-of-life care in accordance with their wishes, which often includes remaining in their homes surrounded by loved ones. It covers a range of services including pain and symptom management, medical equipment and supplies, counseling, and respite care for family caregivers.Authorized in 1982, the Medicare hospice benefit is an example of a government program that works for everyone. It compassionately supports the patient receiving the care services as well as their family members who often become their primary caregivers. Hospice improves the healthcare system by supporting care transitions through reducing ambulance (EMS) trips, emergency room visits and hospital readmissions, as well as unwanted, costly treatments that no longer align with a patient's goals of care.Hospice care saves money by providing the right level of care at the right time, which often means limiting the number of stressful and costly hospital visits to manage symptoms and complications when a patient is terminal. An additional conclusion highlighted by the NORC research is that hospice care serves as an immense benefit to patients, families, and caregivers by delivering increased satisfaction and quality of life, improved pain control, reduced physical and emotional distress, and reduced prolonged grief. As leaders of longstanding, mission-driven organizations, these heartwarming testimonials and experiences from patients and their families are what makes being part of this industry such a rewarding experience.The research also demonstrates that the more patients and families utilize hospice services, the better their outcomes and stronger the cost savings to Medicare. Specifically, the NORC research identified an opportunity to deliver value through greater access to hospice care for patients with chronic diseases such as cancer, respiratory disease, and chronic kidney disease/end stage renal disease, with a projected savings to Medicare of 17%, 20%, and 25%, respectively.The Medicare hospice benefit is a win for healthcare professionals and for American taxpayers, and must be seen as a proven model of a successful government program.We often hear families of hospice patients say, "We only wish we had chosen hospice earlier." It's a common misconception that hospice care is only available to patients in their final days. Former President Jimmy Carter is an excellent example of someone who sought out hospice careopens in a new tab or window earlier in his advanced disease state so he could spend his remaining time in comfort and surrounded by family. Recent media coverageopens in a new tab or window suggests that many people are surprised he has spent nearly 3 months in hospice care.It's unfortunate that 50% of hospice patients receive just 18 days or lessopens in a new tab or window of hospice care when they become hospice-eligible -- that is, when a physician determines their life expectancy is 6 months or less. Additionally, this median length of stay has remained consistent for many decades, illustrating the need to elevate our country's understanding of hospice and the impact it can have on their end-of-life journey. More patients and their families could have access to the Medicare hospice benefit, improving their experience and support at the end of life and helping deliver savings by providing compassionate care in the most desirable care setting -- wherever they call home.The conversation about healthcare is generally focused on spiraling costs, and it is difficult to ignore the significant percentage of federal spending allocated to Medicare. However, the Medicare hospice benefit is not part of the problem; it is part of the solution.Since hospice provides high-quality care and saves money in the long-run, policymakers should support policies that promote access and think about how to find a bridge between a patient's serious illness diagnosis and a hospice referral. For example, more discussion about and access to advanced-care planning to reflect patients' wishes would be valuable. More advance planning will help seriously ill Americans understand the choices that lie ahead and establish goal-focused care plans that align to the patient's desires for their end-of-life journey.By protecting and expanding access, we have the unique opportunity to do right by patients and their families by supporting their interests and well-being, while simultaneously delivering the cost savings necessary to maintain Medicare solvency.Nick Westfall, MBA,opens in a new tab or window is president & CEO of VITAS Healthcare, an end-of-life care provider. Jonathan Fleece, JD,opens in a new tab or window is president & CEO of Empath Health, a hospice provider.

Skilled home health services help people function more independently and provides education enabling patients to participate in their healthcare from the comforts of home. Home health agencies develop a plan of treatment developed in partnership with patients, their family members, physicians and staff to maximize independent functioning. Skilled professionals can help patients following a serious illness, while they recuperate from surgery or with the management of a chronic condition. Activities include:        Learning to navigate through the house safely and prevent falls        Completing daily activities        Increasing strength and stamina for better mobility        Creating a home exercise program        Conserving energy during movements        Using assistive devices        Evaluating cognitive abilities        Recommending how to modify daily activities for safety or other best outcomes In-home health monitoring and telehealth visits keep high-risk patients safe. Daily monitoring gives care teams the ability to catch complications sooner and provide the needed treatment faster. Clinicians provide the patient and caregiver education on using these tools to ensure accurate readings and a high comfort level in using them. Telehealth and remote monitoring may include:        Remote monitoring of patient vital signs        Immersive, video-based telehealth visits with patients, care team, and caregivers        Instant tracking of patients care plans and medication compliance        Virtual medication reconciliation        Remote chronic care management        Smart alerts for proactive care coordination and patient managementCall Empath Home Health today or visit EmpathHomeHealth.org tolearn more about how our skilled nursing services can assist you. Call (855) 203-2273 for care 

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 Hospices esteemed care teams.The accreditation on Accreditation in Practice Transition Programs is a testament to the programs excellence. The ANCC particularly applauded the programs 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 Healths 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.Its 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 Tidewells commitment to excellence in hospice care.###ABOUT EMPATH HEALTHEmpath Health is one of the countrys 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 HOSPICETidewell 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 regions 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.

There is one major requirement for someone who wants to become a volunteer for Empath Health hospice affiliates Suncoast Hospice, Suncoast Hospice of Hillsborough and Tidewell Hospice or affiliates Suncoast PACE, Empath Adult Day Centers or EPIC.Quite simply, a prospective volunteer needs a helping heart.Leave it to Empath Health to find the role and training that best complement the Full Life Care it delivers to the communities across Florida.We look for talents and skills that people have they might want to use that you wouldnt think of as a traditional volunteer, Vice President of Volunteer Engagement Stacy Groff said. Were not an organization that puts people in boxes. We try to find something that will use their skills and talents, as long as it fits within our mission.Groff offered up the example of one hospice volunteer who is a former healthcare surveyor certified in risk management and quality assurance at hospital systems. That volunteer now assists the organization with an accreditation update.Volunteers of all stripes are vital to non-profit healthcare organizations like Empath Health. During Fiscal Year 2022, Empaths 2,000 volunteers provided almost 200,000 hours of service that represented more than $5 million of value to the company. In 2019, the nations hospice volunteers generated more than $469 million in annual savings, the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) reported.Unfortunately, Empath Health has suffered a reduction of volunteers that began during the COVID-19 pandemic. Groff estimated volunteer numbers are down 30 to 50 percent from pre-pandemic levels, depending on the service line. Few of the volunteers who left during the pandemic are returning.Prior to the pandemic, healthcare volunteering was seen as sitting at a bedside, holding a hand, or reading with someone, Groff said. Fast forward to March of 2020, when all of a sudden the media portrayal of healthcare became very different. Masks, face shields and extensive equipment made providers not look human anymore. Risk became a reality. All of a sudden, healthcare had fear attached to it.Empath Healths experience is not unique. According to a 2022 study in the International Journal of Health Policy and Management, about 78 percent of hospice and palliative care providers around the globe indicated less or much less use of volunteers since the pandemics onset.Thats why Empath Health is happy to work with prospective volunteers to find a role that best fits them.Common hospice-related volunteer tasks include running errands, delivering meals, providing companionship or sitting vigil with a patient at the end of life. Volunteers make phone calls to patients and families, and veteran volunteers perform special pinning ceremonies to honor fellow military brothers and sisters.But there are many other opportunities, including working at one of Empaths hospice resale shops, helping out with administrative tasks at an office or planning a charitable event, or providing pet therapy, aromatherapy, music therapy or massage therapy. Volunteers also contribute to Empaths grief and bereavement services, including the Blue Butterfly family grief program. There are also opportunities to help HIV/STI divisions food pantries or assisting PACE or Adult Day Center participants at one of our Day Centers. Teens are welcome to volunteer while satisfying school service requirements and are utilized in many ways.When you hear the words Tidewell or Suncoast Hospice, you think of hospice. Empath Health really has a wealth of different opportunities. You dont have to work directly with a patient. You can, but you could work in the office to support patient care. There are things as simple as sitting at a welcome desk and buzzing people in, Groff said.For more information about volunteering in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties, call (727) 523-3440. In Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and Desoto counties, call (941) 441-2061. Information and an application are available at EmpathVolunteers.org.