Hospice Chautauqua County uses a team approach in providing hospice and palliative care. Every team member plays an important role in providing dignity hope and comfort to the patient and family. Here are the team members and their respective roles:

The Patient is the team leader. The patient's comfort and dignity are the foremost concerns of the treatment team and no one's participation is more important.

Primary Care Physician continues to provide for the medical needs of the hospice patient and works closely with our medical staff in guiding treatment.

Hospice Medical Director provides consultation to the patient's primary care physician as well as our nursing staff in the planning and delivery of care.

Registered Nurses are expert in the hospice and palliative care field and are responsible for directing the day-to-day care of our patients. During their visits they evaluate the patient's condition; perform skilled procedures; teach caregivers how to attend to the patient's needs; coordinate services, medications, supplies & equipment; and communicate with attending physicians. A nurse is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to respond to patient care.

Licensed Practical Nurses provide skilled nursing care and assist RN's with pain and symptom assessment and treatment.

Spiritual Care Coordinators are available to provide spiritual support to patients and their families. They can contact community clergy, assist with funeral planning or provide pastoral counseling. Hospice Chaplains participate in the Hospice Bereavement Program and are available to the community for educational programs and other services.

Home Health Aides assist patients with hygiene and activities that will allow them to remain comfortable and dignified.

Social Workers at Hospice Chautauqua County offer the professional practice of helping people diagnosed with life-limiting illness and their families to understand and navigate the multiple dimensions of living with the illness, dying, and bereavement. Hospice Chautauqua County Social Workers achieve this goal through counseling, advocacy, making referrals, and working to enhance the environment.

Bereavement Counselors are available to assist family members including children through individual and group counseling for up to one year following the patient's death.

Volunteers visit families to assist with day-to-day tasks, provide caregiver relief, and offer emotional support. Visit our section, Volunteering for Hospice to learn more.

Therapists provide physical, occupational, speech, nutritional or respiratory assistance and care on an as-needed basis.

Support Staff oversee and organize administrative functions such as insurance relations and billing, development, personnel, volunteer coordination and public relations.