WHAT IS PALLIATIVE CARE?

The purpose of palliative care is to address symptoms of pain, breathing difficulties, nausea, fatigue, constipation, loss of appetite or problems of sleep. Receiving palliative care does not necessarily mean you’re dying and does not replace your primary treatment. Palliative care does not take the place of your primary-care physician, but instead works alongside your provider. The goal is to make you as comfortable as possible and improve your quality of life.

“I was ready to give up before I met the Pemi-Baker Team. As a palliative care patient with a rare genetic disorder, many times you find yourself fighting clinical care as well as the insurance system. Thank goodness for Penny, Jen and the entire Pemi-Baker team. Working with my primary care physician, Diane Arsenault (another gifted angel), my life has become livable again. Both Penny and Jen’s weekly visits really make my day. Their support and compassion have given me a new lease on life. For those who don’t fully understand palliative care, I encourage them to call PBCH and find a group of people who will change your life. Thank you everyone. You are saviors!” ~Thomas M.

WHAT IS HOSPICE CARE?

Hospice care provides comfort measures during the final phases of life for patients who have decided to no longer receive chemotherapy, radiation treatments or surgeries. We help people remain as mobile, alert and engaged in social activities for as long as their conditions will allow. Your needs may change from day to day or week to week. Quality of life is the goal.

Families tell us they wish they had contacted us sooner.

Soon after a diagnosis of a life-limiting illness, you and your family should consider all your care options so you are better able to make fully informed decisions. The earlier we become involved, the greater the benefits to you and your family. Pemi-Baker Community Health will be there to guide you on this journey. A compassionate care team with years of experience in end-of-life care will help you with important decision-making and establishing goals of care (advance care planning).

Our Team

Your Palliative and Hospice team includes a medical director, registered nurses, registered dietician, licensed nurse assistants, social workers, a chaplain/bereavement counselor and volunteers.

Services provided:

Patient centered home visits and personalized plan of care
Medication and pain management support
Medical equipment and supplies
Expert advice by phone 24/7
Bereavement services through counseling and support groups
Caregiver respite up to 5 days
Teaching and support for family caregivers

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

No matter how much you love a person, caring for a sick loved one can overwhelm your spirit, energy and put your own well-being at risk. A short break can make a big difference.

Pemi-Baker’s hospice volunteers will give you short-term help to let you get the errands done or attend one of Pemi-Baker’s Caregiver support groups.
Alternative Healing Programs– Reiki Therapy, Aromatherapy, Massage Therapy and Pet Therapy
Pet Peace of Mind (PPOM)– An ever-growing number of people think of pets as family members. Sometimes a much beloved pet is the primary source of companionship for hospice and palliative care patients. As their illness progresses, most pet-owning patients need help with pet care to ensure the bond can continue. And many are very concerned about what will happen to their pets after they pass. Our volunteers help in supporting your family pets: walks, feedings, vet bills etc.
Certified Music Practitioner/Therapeutic musician– Providing therapeutic music bedside which meets the palliative or hospice patient’s needs in the moment, creating a nurturing environment which facilitates healing. Certified Music Practitioners provide unobtrusive, soothing music as a service, not an entertainment.

CONTACT US

RESOURCES-WEBSITES & READING

You give of yourselves day & night without end!

To the Pemi-Baker Hospice Team--Words really can't express my feelings-

Your help during one of the most difficult times of my life is SO appreciated. I'm so grateful that because of you, Doug was able to get his wish not to spend the last of his days in a hospital, but at home with those of us who loved him.

And to be constantly reassured that if I needed anything you would be there-oh my gosh-ANYTIME! Well, you people need to know how much you are appreciated. You give of yourselves day & night without end! God Bless you and thank you!

Pam O.

Your courage during Covid-19 does not go unnoticed

Hello. We just wanted to take a moment and let you know how much we truly appreciate all that you do for us in these trying times. You're commitment to the health of our community is a special thing, and we know that you are working under stressful conditions due to the Covid 19 crisis. We realize that in order for you to treat those who may be ill, you are putting you're own lives and even you're own families lives in danger, and that is truly a courageous and honorable thing to do. We want you to know that it does not go unnoticed. Thank you all for all that you do!

Bryan and Renee C., and our mom Joan

“I’m so happy that I found PBCH!”

I live in Meredith and wanted to exercise in a pool. The aquatic classes here at Pemi-Baker are fantastic. I am a member of the 7 am class and we meet three times a week for an amazing class run by Liz. She changes it up every time and works us with a variety of cardio, strength, flexibility, balance and stretching. The aquatic program here offers a variety of classes throughout the day; so very easy to fit it into your routine. I highly recommend that you check it out. Everyone is very welcoming and we have a lot of fun getting our exercise in.