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.
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