Dorothy said it best when she said, “There’s no place like home.” November is National Home Care and Hospice month, and for the past 16 years Regional West’s Home Care and Hospice numbers continue to grow as they serve those who need care within their homes.

As our nation’s 78 million baby boomers age, even more patients will need home care services. Home care is not only preferred over hospitalization, but it is also the most economical choice. On average, Home Care costs a small fraction of what a hospital or a nursing home charges. It also allows patients to live at home and stay independent while receiving medical care.

“People really are most comfortable in their homes,” says Diana Rohrick, Director of Regional West Home Care and Hospice. “Our home care nurses do everything that our in-patient nurses do, only in the convenience of the patient’s home.”

Regional West Home Care provides care for all age ranges, from infants to the elderly, with care requirements from acute, short term illnesses to those who need long term management for their conditions. The group consists of RN’s, LPN’s, physical therapists, medical social workers, speech language pathologists, occupational therapists, and aide services who are all competency tested and are an invaluable piece of the continuum of care.

For those who are facing an advanced illness and death, Regional West Home Care will work together with Regional West Hospice to provide compassionate, patient-directed care that helps the patient feel most comfortable. Hospice also supports the family through the illness, death, and grieving process. Beyond physical relief, hospice strives to help patients and families find emotional and spiritual comfort during what is often a very traumatic time. Regional West Hospice provides counselors, spiritual care, and bereavement professionals who can support patients and families. Hospice is available to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay.

For more information about Regional West Home Care and Hospice, ask your primary care provider visit our website at rwhs.org, or call Rohrick at 1-877-699-7794.