Providing compassionate in-home and out-patient care in Plymouth, NH

Dr. Kristi Saunders Joins Pemi-Baker Community Health

Pemi-Baker Community Health is excited to announce that Dr. Kristi Saunders, MD, has joined the team as their new Hospice Medical Director.

After working over twenty years in Family Medicine as a board certified OB/GYN, Dr. Saunders was drawn to palliative care and hospice by the desire to be more involved with her patients when facing serious illnesses and death. She became board certified in Hospice and Palliative Medicine in 2012 and since then has been educating her patients about living and embracing the normalcy of dying.

Working with other agencies in New Hampshire and recently receiving hospice help for her mother in California, has highlighted common challenges that families face. “My past experiences of different cultures, needs and desires made me realize how important it is to really have the time to listen, watch, and not treat everyone like medicine normally does…like everyone else. We are all different and need our care individualized. We spend too much time medicalizing death and not spending more time in what is the hard part…saying goodbye,” said Saunders. Pemi-Baker Community Health’s mission and philosophy of supporting their patients and families with compassionate care follows closely with Dr. Saunders’ beliefs. “Our goal is to educate families that hospice is really about living, not death. It should be about smiles, hugs and bringing people closer to acceptance as we possibly can,” said Saunders.

“Dr. Saunders has been serving our community as one of our hospice physicians since January and we are delighted that she will be taking over as Hospice Medical Director upon Dr. Arsenault’s retirement. Her commitment to the highest standards of client care blended with her knowledge and compassion make her an ideal fit for Pemi-Baker Community Health,” said Danielle Paquette-Horne, Senior Director of Home Health, Palliative Care & Hospice.

With over 50 years of experience, serving clients from 22 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Community Health is committed to creating healthier communities. Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, on-site physical and occupational therapy and aquatic therapy in their 90-degree therapy pool. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals in the business because of their hearts. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

PBCH is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org   Visit our website: www.pbhha.org  and like our Facebook Page: @PBCH4

~written by Anna Swanson

Skilled Home Health Care: What Pemi-Baker Community Health Can Do For You

November is National Homecare Month. What better way to celebrate it than to provide information about home care services thru Pemi-Baker Community Health, and what it can offer for a loved one? As we age, we still want our independence. Many older Americans are choosing to stay in their homes longer and “age in place.” This trend allows people to remain in their family home surrounded by familiar furnishings that make them feel comfortable and safe. But as we get older, certain activities that once seemed simple can become more difficult to manage.

So when do we need skilled home health care?

Skilled home health is care given to patients at home by medically trained and licensed professionals. It is an alternative to receiving care in a nursing home or hospital to regain health and independence.

What sort of people are served by home health?

Skilled home health care clients can be recovering patients who are ill with a chronic condition like heart failure or an acute health condition like surgery for a hip replacement, or who have sustained an injury. Home health care permits earlier discharge from a hospital, reduces hospital admissions and assists with rapid recovery. It’s less expensive, more accessible, and as effective as care from a hospital or skilled nursing facility.

Skilled home health care can be for rehabilitation following a stay in the hospital or nursing home.  Patients may also be referred to Pemi-Baker Community Health by their own PCP’s for help managing a health condition. For example, your Mom might need skilled nursing after being hospitalized with a bout of pneumonia or Dad may need occupational and physical therapy when he gets home following knee surgery. The nurse can help your Mom learn to manage her medications safely and help her learn ways to manage her overall health more effectively. Occupational and physical therapy will provide training on the best exercises Dad can do to strengthen his knee so he can get back to doing the things he enjoys.

Long-term home health palliative or hospice services can be provided when your parent or loved one is suffering with a terminal illness. Our nurses and therapists work together with your doctors to provide coordinated, effective care.

How does a patient access skilled home health thru Pemi-Baker Community Health?

A referral from a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant is necessary. If your loved one is being sent home from the hospital or nursing home, their staff physicians will typically write the referral. Your own PCP can also provide a referral.  Just let them know you would like to use Pemi-Baker Community Health, we service 22 towns in Central New Hampshire.

Who pays for skilled home health care?

Payment options for home health typically include a wide variety of insurances including Medicare, many Medicare Replacement plans, along with a whole host of private insurances.

Pemi-Baker Community Health has been in the business of ‘skilled’ home health care for over 50 years. We understand how hard it can be to get ready, travel to a certain facility to receive care and then travel back home again every time you have to go to an appointment. Home health care addresses this dilemma and Pemi-Baker Community Health can help you. There are many benefits of getting care at home and one of them is getting competent, one-on-one skilled care right where you live. Apart from this, you also save your time, energy and extra money because home health care is relatively cheaper than being institutionalized in a care facility.

Our team of responsible and reliable professionals will make sure that you or your loved ones receive the appropriate care at home. We offer skilled nursing, home health aides, physical therapy, occupational therapy, medical social services and speech therapy. We are experts in our field and we have the necessary experience to make sure you are cared for correctly. You are in safe and caring hands with Pemi-Baker Community Health.

“The people working at Pemi-Baker are terrific. I would highly recommend them for any home health care needs for yourself, family and friends. They take the time to meet your needs in a kind and sensitive way.” ~Deb

“I have had home-care after a hip replacement as well as physical therapy to recover and PT for other problems. Everyone is friendly, concerned, efficient, professional and cheerful. This organization is superior to others I have had over the years.”  ~Sheila

“Fantastic people!  Real people you can trust and feel comfortable with.  I can’t thank you enough for all the help you have given us while my husband is going thru cancer.  Thank you so much!”  ~Maxy

~Written by Anna Swanson

November is National Home Care & Hospice Month

During the month of November, the home care and hospice community honor the millions of nurses, home care aides, therapists, and social workers who make a remarkable difference for the patients and families they serve. These heroic caregivers play a central role in our health care system and in homes across the nation. To recognize their efforts, we call upon all Americans to commemorate the power of caring, both at the home and in their local communities and ask them to join with Pemi-Baker Community Health in celebrating November as Home Care and Hospice Month.

In addition, Home Care Aide Week takes place the second full week of November. Join us in honoring these compassionate, tireless workers who play an invaluable role for their clients as caregivers, companions, and friends.

“Home care and hospice nurses, therapists, aides, and other providers choose to use their lives to serve our country’s aged, disabled, and dying. This noble work deserves our recognition and praise and we celebrate November as home care and hospice month for that very reason,” said National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC) President William A. Dombi.

With 10 thousand Americans turning 65 every day, the need for health care will continue to rise, and costs will continue to skyrocket. This is where home care and hospice come in. As the preferred choice for most patients, it also offers the greatest cost savings. For example, Medicare pays nearly $2,000 per day for a typical hospital stay and $450 per day for a typical nursing home stay. Meanwhile, home care costs less than $100 a day and helps many U.S. seniors remain independent at home, enriching their lives, and staying in touch with those they love.

Fast Facts

  • Home care providers will travel about 8 billion miles to deliver the best health care in the world.
  • Ninety percent of Americans want to age in place, and home care is the preferred method of health care delivery among the disabled, elderly, and chronically ill.
  • Home care provides high-quality, compassionate care to more than 5 million Americans annually.

With over 50 years of experience, serving clients from 22 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Community Health is committed to creating healthier communities. Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, on-site physical, occupational and aquatic therapy as well as free community educational/support groups via zoom.

~by Anna Swanson

Why Become a Hospice Volunteer?

Hospice volunteers know that helping others at the end of their lives is tremendously rewarding. Being part of a hospice team gives you the profound privilege of bringing comfort, peace and care to patients, caregivers, and their families during their transitional journey.

Volunteers feel a greater appreciation of life itself, a deeper understanding of what’s truly important, and an authentic sense of fulfillment.

Why volunteer?  As a hospice volunteer, you become part of a person’s life when you are needed most. That sense of fulfillment is priceless. Also, without caring volunteers like you, there would be no Medicare-certified hospice programs. Medicare law requires that 5% of hospice care hours are provided by volunteers.

Who volunteers?  People just like you. Adults, young adults, and in some cases mature teens from all backgrounds, experiences, and cultures. Effective hospice volunteers embrace the fact that their role is one of compassionate service.

What skills do I need?  Most agencies like Pemi-Baker Community Health, will provide the training and orientation you need to feel confident and comfortable with whatever level of support you choose to give. Training can include things such as grief counseling, boundaries between the volunteer, the patient and the family, and emergency medical support.

Do you love music? Sharing stories? Playing cards? Whatever passions, talents, or interests you bring can also be valuable assets. The most precious asset, of course, is simply caring.

What does a hospice volunteer do?  Ultimately, hospice care is about providing patients, caregivers, and families with the most comfortable and compassionate end-of-life experience possible.

Your responsibilities will vary. In many cases it’s as simple as companionship. Sitting and talking. Or just listening. Or playing a patient’s favorite music.

You may also assist patients with tasks they can no longer perform for themselves. It may include anything from light household chores to lending emotional support to the patient’s family during this difficult time.

If you prefer to work in a different capacity, some hospice providers have opportunities to help with administrative office tasks.

What is the time commitment?  As with most things around hospice volunteering, your commitment can vary. It depends a lot on the time you’re willing to commit and the needs of the patients you are matched with. You can work all that out in advance when you apply.

I’m interested; how do I apply?  The next free VIRTUAL Hospice Volunteer training will start Tuesday, October 6th  and run 5 weeks through November 3rd.  All the training is done via zoom meetings in the comfort of your own home. Contact Lauren Bell, Pemi-Baker Community Health’s Hospice Volunteer Coordinator at 603-536-2232 or email her at lbell@pbhha.org. 

 ~Anna Swanson

 

No-Show Auction a Success!

Pemi-Baker Community Health Raises Critical Funds for Home care and Hospice Patients-

The COVID-19 pandemic put a damper on Pemi-Baker Community Health’s plans for their Annual Auction and Brunch fundraiser but thanks to the generosity of community sponsors, donors and bidders, their ‘No-Show Auction’, an on line only event, was a success!

With over 85 items to bid on, raffles to invest in and specialty services to donate towards, they hit their fundraising goal and raised the critical funds needed to continue their important work in supporting the members of this community who need medical aid at home. Now, more than ever, PBCH patients need nursing and social work support for their sudden illnesses and hospice needs. Many of their patients are experiencing increased feelings of depression and isolation, as well as heightened anxiety, particularly because many are at high-risk for COVID-19.

As a non-profit for over 52 years, Pemi-Baker Community Health has served family, friends and neighbors in 18+ towns and they couldn’t have done it without the generosity of individuals and businesses alike. Pemi-Baker would like to thank the following businesses for sponsoring the auction: Dumont Construction Inc., Mid-State Health Center, Northway Bank, Speare Memorial Hospital, NEEBCO, MatrixCare, Noyes Insurance, Service Credit Union, Insurance 24, Steve and Carole Osmer, Brian Weeks Electric, Highline Acoustics, Deb Hills Cleaning Services, Peabody & Smith Realty and Meredith Village Savings Bank.

Would you like to support Pemi-Baker Community Health? Visit their website, www.pbhha.org, to make a donation or join their ‘Circle of Friends’. This special group of good as gold supporters, make small, monthly donations to provide ongoing funding so PBCH can mobilize care, irregardless of the patient’s ability to pay. Just $10 a month will help ensure that every family can find the compassion, education and assistance necessary to help their loved one. You can make a difference to a friend or family member today with less than the amount you spend on lunch.

~Anna Swanson, Outreach and Communications

Hospice Volunteer Graduates Announced

Pemi-Baker Community Health is pleased to introduce the newest members of their hospice volunteer team.  The volunteers come from a variety of professional backgrounds and represent many of the 18 towns that PBCH serves.  The spirit of hospice volunteering is borne from a genuine desire to give comfort, peace and care to patients, caregivers and their families during end of life.  Many volunteers have had a personal experience with someone who has benefited from all that hospice offers and have a strong desire to give back to other families in their community.

Hospice volunteers help in a variety of ways: holding vigil, writing letters, reading to patients, light housekeeping, relieving family caregivers, helping with outside chores, grocery shopping, dog walking and holding meaningful conversations.  No amount of time is too small; some volunteers give 1-2 hours per week, some give 1-2 hours per month.  “We are always looking for wonderful people who have a passion for working with others.  Our volunteers are so important to our non-profit organization and to those families we serve,” said Lauren Bell, Hospice Volunteer Coordinator for PBCH.

The volunteers completed a FREE, 5-week training course at PBCH’s Boulder Point location in Plymouth.  The course covered the hospice philosophy, listening and communication skills, confidentiality, family dynamics, and bereavement support for clients and their families.

The next free training session will begin April 7th through May 5th on Tuesday afternoons, 2-4pm.  For more information about hospice training or to register, please contact Lauren Bell, SW, Hospice Volunteer Coordinator at 603-536-2232 or by email at lbell@pbhha.org.

VOL NTEER…ALL THAT’S MISSING IS U!

Thank You Everyone For Your Generous Donations on Giving Tuesday

More families will receive care in their homes, where healing occurs best.  More children will learn to swim, more people will be able to get support while dealing with the strain of caring for a loved one and more people will enjoy the healing warmth of our therapeutic pool.

Nurses and social workers bringing Thankgsgiving smiles and meals to our hospice patients last week.

Thank you for helping us do magical acts like this.

 

 

Pemi-Baker Community Health Recognized as a ‘We Honor Veterans’ Partner

It may surprise many people to learn that 25 percent of those who die every year in the U.S. are Veterans. To help provide care and support that reflect the important contributions made by these men and women, Pemi-Baker Community Health (PBCH) has become a national partner of We Honor Veterans, a pioneering campaign developed by National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs.


As a We Honor Veterans Partner, PBCH will implement ongoing Veteran-centered education for their staff and volunteers to help improve the care they provide to the Veterans they proudly serve. The nation is seeing many of the Veterans who served in World War II and Korean pass away—and the number of deaths of Vietnam Veterans is beginning to rise.

The We Honor Veterans campaign provides tiered recognition to organizations that demonstrate a systematic commitment to improving care for Veterans. “Partners” can assess their ability to serve Veterans and, using resources provided as part of the campaign, integrate best practices for providing end-of-life care to Veterans into their organization. By recognizing the unique needs of our nation’s Veterans who are facing a life-limiting illness, Pemi-Baker Community Health & Hospice is better able to accompany and guide Veterans and their families toward a more peaceful ending. And in cases where there might be some specific needs related to the Veteran’s military service, combat experience or other traumatic events, PBCH will find tools to help support those they are caring for.

“We thank Pemi-Baker Community Health for partnering in the We Honor Veterans program,” says NHPCO President & CEO Ed Banach. “We Honor Veterans partners are committed to providing quality Veteran-centric care to the Veteran patients they serve. They understand how a Veteran’s military service, combat experience or other traumatic events, could impact their end-of-life experience.”

The resources of We Honor Veterans focus on respectful inquiry, compassionate listening, and grateful acknowledgment, coupled with Veteran-centric education of health care staff caring for Veterans. To learn more about We Honor Veterans or to support this important work via a secure, online donation, please visit www.wehonorveterans.org.
“VA shares a common goal with our nation’s hospices, and that is to provide the best possible care specifically tailored for Veterans, meeting their goals of care in their preferred setting. As we focus on working together and unite our services and skills, We Honor Veterans will channel our combined strengths directly to Veterans – wherever they are receiving care,” added Banach.

With 52 years of experience, serving over 900 clients from 18 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Community Health is the home care provider of choice for Grafton County. Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, on-site physical and occupational therapy and fitness memberships including a fitness gym and fitness classes in our 90-degree therapy pool. PBCH is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org Visit our website: www.pbhha.org and like our Facebook Page: @PBCH4

~By Anna Swanson

“They are so pleasant and willing to help.”

They talk kindly and gently guide my mother to do what she needs to do.  It is as if this is not 'just a job' but they really are enjoying what they do.  They are happy!

Sister of a Hospice Patient
Pemi-Baker Community Health
2020-01-17T12:43:19-05:00
They talk kindly and gently guide my mother to do what she needs to do.  It is as if this is not 'just a job' but they really are enjoying what they do.  They are happy! Sister of a Hospice Patient

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.

Pemi-Baker Community Health
2020-06-11T07:31:14-04:00

Pam O.

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!

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

Pemi-Baker Community Health
2020-06-11T06:27:43-04:00

Bryan and Renee C., and our mom Joan

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!

“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.

L. Rice

Pemi-Baker Community Health
2020-01-17T12:31:13-05:00

L. Rice

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.

“I had a sore knee keeping me from hiking and skiing.”

The therapy treatments and recommended exercises put me back outdoors enjoying my passions in no time.  Excellent staff was very helpful!

S. Baker

Pemi-Baker Community Health
2020-01-17T12:23:39-05:00

S. Baker

The therapy treatments and recommended exercises put me back outdoors enjoying my passions in no time.  Excellent staff was very helpful!

“The Joint Mobility class has made a world of difference for me!”

I'm in less pain, I sleep through the night, which I haven't done in years, and I've met some of the nicest people.  I look forward to this class so much; when Thursday comes I dread waiting till next Tuesday to see you.
Pemi-Baker Community Health
2020-01-17T12:02:46-05:00
I'm in less pain, I sleep through the night, which I haven't done in years, and I've met some of the nicest people.  I look forward to this class so much; when Thursday comes I dread waiting till next Tuesday to see you.

“Everyone is so understanding supportive and kind.”

From the director to the nurses to the health care workers.  So cheerful, helpful and accommodating.  This is our second time receiving assistance from PBCH and we are very lucky to have found this amazing group!  Thank you PBCH for your excellent care and compassion.

Leila L.

Pemi-Baker Community Health
2020-01-17T13:19:24-05:00

Leila L.

From the director to the nurses to the health care workers.  So cheerful, helpful and accommodating.  This is our second time receiving assistance from PBCH and we are very lucky to have found this amazing group!  Thank you PBCH for your excellent care and compassion.

“We bonded as people and worked together as a team.”

My therapy experience has been all about partnership. This was the key to success ! My rehab was similar to that of an athlete with the therapists as my trainers using their expertise to progress my knee to the next level, the next stage.

‘Woody’ & Jake

Pemi-Baker Community Health
2019-11-07T12:20:00-05:00

‘Woody’ & Jake

My therapy experience has been all about partnership. This was the key to success ! My rehab was similar to that of an athlete with the therapists as my trainers using their expertise to progress my knee to the next level, the next stage.

“We’ve loved the swim lessons at Pemi-Baker.”

Anna's gentle and encouraging instruction was just right for making our daughter feel comfortable in the water. We're looking forward to continuing the lessons!
Pemi-Baker Community Health
2019-11-07T12:26:12-05:00
Anna's gentle and encouraging instruction was just right for making our daughter feel comfortable in the water. We're looking forward to continuing the lessons!
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