The 2026 Legislative Session (January 13-March 13) has kicked off and is wasting no time getting to work. FHPCA is working diligently to mitigate a portion of House Bill 693 which eliminates Certificate of Need in Hospice and skilled nursing facilities, there is not a Senate version of this bill as of January 13. We are supporting Patient Directed Medical Orders (like POLST/MOLST), have several other issues we are engaged on, and dozens of issues we are closely monitoring.
During the Joint Opening Session on Tuesday, Governor DeSantis delivered his final (8th) State of the State address to the House and Senate, and as would be expected, he recapped his most important accomplishments as Governor. He called upon the Legislature to send meaningful property tax reform legislation to his desk – promising to sign it. Property tax reform is expected to consume much of the 2026 Session bandwidth, with rumblings of a Special Session in April to conduct a mid-decade Congressional redistricting plan.
For context, this is a reminder that Republicans hold super-majorities in the Florida House and Senate and hold every elected statewide office. That is useful information to know as you observe the process.
Stay tuned through session as we represent the hospice and palliative care sectors of health care.
If you are interested in watching the goings-on in Tallahassee, you may tune into the Florida Channel to watch the House and Senate Chambers live, committees at work, and interviews and press conferences as they occur. You will find the calendar and schedule at the links, below, and can find many of those committee meetings and interviews on the Florida Channel.
The refreshed for 2026, January edition of The Hospice Professional is out now! Reacquaint yourself with FHPCA’s staff, meet our new Corporate Patron, and get Forum Updates. Also see what our members are up to! Supporting education for new CNA’s, facilitating a special dinner experience for a patient, and a bow-tied therapy dog providing comfort at a facility. 📰
And of course, don’t forget to subscribe to The Hospice Professional to see it a day earlier: Click here to read The Hospice Professional January 2026 Edition
Every year FHPCA asks the Governor’s office to declare November Hospice and Palliative Care Month which he has done for 2025. Thank you Gov. DeSantis for your support of hospice!
Florida TaxWatch, August 7, 2025
Florida’s aging population is driving sustained demand for cost-effective, patient-centered care across the continuum. Palliative care—non-curative, interdisciplinary support for patients with serious but often nonterminal conditions—improves quality of life and can lower overall costs when introduced early in the disease course. Hospice provides end-of-life care once a clinician certifies a terminal prognosis; in Florida, hospice providers operate under a Certificate of Need (CON) program that authorizes new entrants only when unmet need is demonstrated through twice-yearly batching cycles…Read whole article here
Read the Florida TaxWatch study here
Please join us May 29-30 for the 40th Annual Forum – Hospice Works: Sunshine State of Mind at the beautiful Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek Hotel for networking and education. Get ready for innovative content and incredible speakers. Visit the official Forum website for a full listing of speakers and education sessions. Register yourself and your team today!
This year is a Hospice Works year and is designed for the non-clinical Hospice professionals focusing on topics that keep hospice working:
Click here to register and find more information for the 40th Annual Forum.
For any questions about the FHPCA 40th Annual Forum – Hospice Works: Sunshine State of Mind please email Christina Michael, Director of Education & Events, Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association.
It’s back! Check out the revamped Hospice Professional Newsletter today.
Subscribe to see it a day earlier.
Click here to read the January Edition of The Hospice Professional.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association (FHPCA) FHPCA is proud to announce Executive Officers and Committee Chairs for 2019. The Committee Chairs execute key strategic plan initiatives of FHPCA’s mission to ensure excellence and access to hospice care. The new 2019 Executive Committee members will continue to pursue these goals and serve Floridians and Hospice programs as strong advocates for the needs of those in the final phases of life.
Rana McClelland, MBA, is the Regional Program Director of Florida operations for Compassionate Care Hospice, a large national hospice and palliative care provider. She was previously Vice President of Palliative Medical Associates, a national palliative care provider and a division of hospice and palliative care services for patients in need. She is an acknowledged expert in the hospice and palliative care sectors whose many accomplishments include founding Compassionate Care Hospice’s Florida operations in 2010 and rapidly expanding to 3 programs in 6 counties by 2015. She serves on the board of the Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association (FHPCA). A native of Huntsville, Alabama, she received her undergraduate degree at Auburn University and her MBA at Southeast University.
Jaysen Roa brings over 10 years of hospice leadership experience, having served as Executive Director at Good Shepherd Hospice, Inc. an affiliate of Chapters Health System, Inc. based in Lakeland, Florida. Roa also served in a variety of leadership roles at Hernando Pasco Hospice (HPH), Inc. and also worked at Hospice of Citrus County, Inc., both based in Florida. He currently serves as President & CEO for Avow.
Gayle Mattson currently serves as president of Haven, a non-profit organization and affiliate of SantaFe HealthCare serving the hospice and advanced illness needs of over 800 Floridians each day across 18 North Central Florida counties. With decades of executive experience in clinical and health care delivery operations including hospital, home health, hospice, geriatrics and palliative care, Mattson has seen the need for expanded access to quality programs and services for advanced illness and end-of-life care. A Minnesota native, Mattson earned a bachelor of science in nursing at St. Olaf College and an Executive Masters in Healthcare Administration at the University of Minnesota. Mattson was awarded the 2014 Minnesota Women in Health Care Leadership Award.
Pauline Taylor is currently the Executive Director and Administrator at AdventHealth Hospice Care Central Florida (formerly Hospice of the Comforter). She holds a Master’s degree in Health Administration and is a Registered Nurse. She has worked in the hospice field since 1998 and has held positions in nursing, sales, and business development and operational leadership. Pauline maintains Advanced Certified Hospice Executive certification administered by the California Association for Health Services at Home (CAHSAH). The accreditation demonstrates advanced competencies for strategic positioning, financial management, and legal compliance issues. In 2014, while serving as VP of Business Development at Hospice of St. Francis, FHPCA awarded Pauline with The Catalyst Award which recognizes an individual in any role within an organization who has consistently demonstrated leadership in forging the collaboration that makes hospice unique. Pauline previously served on the FHPCA Executive Committee as the Quality Chair and Forum Chair.
Cathy has been with Gentiva Health Services for over 19 years, and has been the Area Vice President of Operations – Hospice for over 6 years. A nurse by trade, Cathy also has extensive experience managing the overall operations of both Hospice and Home Health, including developing budgets and managing Agencies profitably. She received her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from the University of South Carolina.
Peggy has more than 35 years of experience in hospice management and nursing. She joined VITAS in 1983 as a registered nurse in the Broward County, Florida, program and quickly rose through the ranks, serving as a nurse, team manager, patient care administrator, and general manager.
In the mid-1990s, Peggy served as vice president for all VITAS hospice programs in California before moving to Miami in 1998 as the company’s first vice president for patient & family services. Peggy is a longtime member of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), and serves as co-chair of its Membership Committee. She also is a Board member of the Duke Institute on Care at the End of Life, and was recently named to the Board of Community Home Accreditation Program (CHAP). Peggy also acts as a hospice expert advisor to the Joint Commission, and has worked in the past with the NHPCO Regulatory sub-committee. Peggy is a Certified Healthcare Compliance Professional.
Susan began her career with Community Hospice (then known as Hospice of Northeast Florida) as a volunteer clinical social worker for the nonprofits new St. Augustine office in 1985, having just earned a master’s degree in social work from Florida State University. She became the organization’s first staff social worker in 1986.
She became Executive Director in 1988 and was named president and CEO of Community Hospice of Northeast Florida in April 1991. During her tenure, Community Hospice has grown from serving 60 patients a day with a staff of 35 to an organization of approximately 850 full- and part-time staff serving approximately 1,200 patients each day.
In addition to serving as president of the Junior Service League of St. Augustine from 1993-94, Susan has served on the Board of Directors of United Way of St. Johns County; the Advisory Board of the Historic St. Augustine Preservation Board; the Trustees of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce; and the Jacksonville Women’s Network.
David C. Fielding joined Hospice of Palm Beach County as President and Chief Executive Officer in December 1998. Under Mr. Fielding’s leadership, Hospice of Palm Beach County has grown from caring for approximately 200 patients on a daily basis to more than 2000 patients on a daily basis, branching out to bring the organization into Broward County and merging with Hospice by the Sea, forming a new parent company, Trustbridge, which includes Hospice of Palm Beach County, Hospice by the Sea, FocusCare and Harbor Palliative Care.
For more information about FHPCA, please visit www.floridahospices.org
OCALA, Fla., Nov. 5, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — On October 11, in conjunction with Hospice of Marion County’s “Uptown Hoedown” Gala and fundraiser, Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association presented Rep. Charlie Stone (R), Ocala, with a “2018 Hospice Champion Award.”
Rep. Charlie Stone (FL-22nd District) received the Hospice Champion award from Paul A. Ledford, President and CEO, Florida Hospices & Palliative Care Association. Hospice of Marion County CEO Mary Ellen Poe joined in the presentation at the Uptown Hoedown gala fundraiser event in Ocala on October 18, 2018.
The event took place in Marion County’s Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. FHPCA President and CEO, Paul A. Ledford, recognized Rep. Stone’s role as a strong advocate for hospice and palliative care during the 2018 Legislative Session. He told the crowd, “When Rep. Stone was presenting the FHPCA Palliative Care bill this session, members from both sides of the aisle spoke about his reputation and character, and given the partisan environment at the Capitol, that is certainly high recognition.”
During the 2018 Legislative Session, Stone sponsored FHPCA’s Palliative Care bill and worked to support Hospice Certificate of Need (CON) in Florida.
Hospice of Marion County CEO, Mary Ellen Poe, expressed her gratitude to both Charlie and Michelle Stone for their dedication to end-of-life care, and added, “His testimony in committee regarding the importance of Certificate of Need in the current hospice environment played a significant role in preserving CON. From his own personal experience with hospice care, Rep. Stone was an eloquent proponent of the benefits of the larger scope of care hospice can provide due to the CON.”
Rep. Charlie Stone has a long history of public service dating back to 2004, serving twice as Marion County Commission, Chair, 2004-2012.
“Charlie Stone comes to Tallahassee, and resolutely… SEE FULL RELEASE
TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Nov. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Governor Rick Scott has declared November as Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Month. Last year, more than 137,351 patients received hospice care throughout Florida. Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association is pleased to join hospice providers across the state in recognizing November as Florida Hospice Month. In 2016, FHPCA launched the “Let Hospice Help” initiative to encourage Floridians to learn about hospice services and plan ahead for end-of-life medical care
“FHPCA launched the Let Hospice Help initiative to help the public understand the valuable services available to them through their local hospice,” said Paul A. Ledford, President & CEO of Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association. “This November we want to raise awareness that hospices around Florida are here to help. It is very rewarding to see patients and families find the comfort and care they need.”
Click HERE to read Governor Rick Scott’s proclamation.
The LetHospiceHelp.org website provides basic facts on what to expect from hospice providers and helps consumers or family members understand the lesser-known benefits of hospice. The ‘Hospice Locator’ allows users to locate end-of-life care programs SEE FULL RELEASE…
(Left to Right) Chuck Lee, President & CEO of Cornerstone Hospice & Palliative Care; Paul Ledford, President & CEO of Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association; Representative Travis Cummings (R), Orange Park; and Susan Ponder-Stansel, President & CEO of Community Hospice & Palliative Care.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Sept. 10, 2018, /PRNewswire/ — Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association presented Rep. Travis Cummings (R), Orange Park the “2018 Hospice Champion Award” on August 23rd.
The “Hospice Champion” Award is granted to those who display dedication to public service in assuring access to quality hospice care for Floridians and their loved ones.
Rep. Cummings currently serves as the Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee and has a long-standing record of supporting hospice care. He was instrumental in helping pass SB 474 in 2017 that assures the public easy access to Hospice Quality Measures.
“It is fitting that Travis Cummings receive the Hospice Champion Award. Throughout his time in the Legislature, he has… [READ FULL PRESS RELEASE]
———————–
Support Hospice in Florida today. Learn more about the specialty license plate by clicking the image above.
Tallahassee, Fla.—During the Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association’s (FHPCA) fourth quarter Board Meeting at Hilton Bayfront in St. Petersburg, Hope Healthcare President and CEO Samira K. Beckwith presented Senator Denise Grimsley with the Hospice Champion Award. FHPCA recognized Senator Grimsley’s role in serving as a champion for hospice and palliative issues during the 2017 Legislative Session. Senator Grimsley has over 10 years of public service. She is a registered nurse and also currently serves as a Hospital Administrator for Florida Hospital Wauchula and Lake Placid. She has served on the board for Good Shepherd Hospice.
During the 2017 regular session, she sponsored the Senate portion of FHPCA’s bill “An Act Related to Hospice” (SB 474). This bill was passed into law addressing quality measures, prescription drug disposal after a patient’s death, and obtaining records after death.
FHPCA’s President and CEO Paul Ledford said, “Throughout Senator Denise Grimsley’s distinguished career, she has been a strong advocate for a variety of policies that affect Floridians. FHPCA is thankful to work with Senator Grimsley to ensure the best possible hospice and palliative care is accessible to Floridians.”
Senator Denise Grimsley said, “I thank FHPCA for honoring me with the Hospice Champion award. I am passionate about healthcare and serving the people of our great state. This past legislative session gave me the opportunity to combine my experience in the nursing field with my role in public office to support the Hospice bill and to ensure Floridians receive the best hospice and palliative care possible.”
Senator Grimsley’s district (26) includes Hardee, Desoto, Highlands, Okeechobee, Glades, and parts of Polk, Charlotte, and Lee counties. The hospice programs serving those counties are Compassionate Care Hospice, Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care, Chapters Health System, Good Shepherd Hospice, Hospice of Okeechobee, VITAS Healthcare, Tidewell, Treasure Health- TCH, VNA Hospice of Indian River County, and Hope Hospice Healthcare.
FHPCA’s board is comprised of 41 hospice executives representing their hospice organizations in Florida. The board strives to assure excellence in and expand access to hospice and palliative care and advocates for the needs of those in the final phases of life. The vision of FHPCA is to continue making Florida a model state for hospice and palliative care services.
Tallahassee, FL – Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association announced the recipient of FHPCA’s research support grant, Opus Care of South Florida. This research project will seek to understand the key factors that influence end-of-life decisions in the Hispanic community including beliefs and cultural tendencies, insurance utilization, and referral rates by healthcare professionals. “We are proud to award this research grant to OpusCare of South Florida,” said Paul Ledford, President & CEO of Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association. “The changing demographics of the state present an opportunity for our hospice programs to provide compassionate and palliative care to patients from different walks of life. FHPCA is excited to invest in OpusCare’s research project and help change the perception of hospice care in the Hispanic community.”
Hispanics make up 23% of the population in Florida – with Miami-Dade and Broward counties as the epicenter of this community. The participation rate for this culture in hospice care has been historically low. OpusCare plans to identify the factors that lead to general underutilization and hesitancy toward hospice care by Hispanics, with the hopes of better meeting the needs of Hispanic patients and becoming a trusted partner in the community.
“We are very excited and grateful to the Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association and the FHPCA Research & Development Committee, for awarding OpusCare of South Florida a grant on our Research Application,” said Dr. Ismael Roque-Velasco, President & Chief Executive Officer of OpusCare of South Florida. “The research topic will be “Hospice Education and Early Utilization Among Hispanics. The outcomes of this research will be a great benefit for achieving a better understanding among Hispanics of the criteria for program qualification, services provided, developing educational tools and understanding the expectations of patients and families concerning palliative and hospice care services. Again, we thank the Association for utilizing the research among our affiliates and for the innovative ways of approaching education and community outreach within the communities we serve.”
The results of the year-long research project will be included in a final report made available by July 2018.
FHPCA awards grants to support the research of member programs. The association encourages clinical or operational project submissions that will add to the body of knowledge for hospice and palliative care. To stay up to date on the next application cycle, please visit FHPCA’s website at www.floridahospices.org.
###
About Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association:
Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association (FHPCA) is a not-for-profit, IRS Section 501(c)(3) organization representing hospice patients and families, hospice professionals and hospice providers. FHPCA strives to assure excellence in, and expand access to, hospice and palliative care, and advocates for the needs of those in the final stages of life.
About OpusCare of South Florida:
OpusCare of South Florida is a nonprofit organization serving the Miami Dade county community since 1991. They are dedicated to providing patients and their families excellence in palliative care and support services when faced with a terminal illness. OpusCare provides a customized individual program where “Dignity Care” is their number one priority.
Orlando, FL. – Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association (FHPCA) announced the recipients of the Awards of Excellence in Hospice and Palliative Care at this year’s Forum. The Awards of Excellence program provides a venue for hospice professionals to honor their peers and highlight the very best hospice has to offer.
FHPCA President & CEO Paul Ledford said, “We are honored to be able to present these hospice providers and professionals with the Awards of Excellence for their dedication to hospice and palliative care in Florida. Working in hospice is both challenging and rewarding, and these award recipients go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of patients and families in this state.”
2017 Awards of Excellence Recipients:
The Catalyst Award: Susan Finkelstein – Suncoast Hospice | Empath Health
The Hospice Story Award: “The Outback” – Treasure Coast Hospice
Excellence in Program Innovation – Community Outreach: “Traditions” – Suncoast Hospice | Empath Health
Excellence in Program Innovation – Clinical Practice: “7-Day RN Case Management Revolution” – Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care
The Breakthrough Award: Thomas A. Dalton – VITAS Healthcare
The Synergy Award: “Clinical and HR Servant Leadership Team” – Hospice of the Comforter
About the Awards & The Winners:
The Catalyst Award recognizes an individual in any role within an organization who has consistently demonstrated leadership in forging the collaboration that makes hospice unique. This individual seeks excellence not only in his/her field, but also in cooperation with other disciplines. This individual fosters collaboration and brings teams together to the betterment of his/her organization.
The Catalyst Award Winner:
Susan Finkelstein
Suncoast Hospice | Empath Health
Susan Finkelstein is Suncoast Hospice | Empath Health’s Pediatric Services Manager and a nationally-known subject matter expert for pediatric hospice and palliative care. She has created pediatric competencies and collaborated with team leadership to ensure staff providing care to pediatric patients have received training and been evaluated against best practice core competencies. Recently, a mother received a diagnosis for her unborn child that is typically incompatible with life and Susan stepped in to help the family. The mother’s healthcare provider referred her to Suncoast Hospice | Empath Health’s perinatal loss program so they could provide her with counseling support and birthing assistance. Eventually the baby was born and named Veronica and lived after birth. Susan’s team quickly admitted Veronica into Suncoast Hospice | Empath Health’s pediatric hospice program. In a further show of advocacy for this family, Susan worked with the state attorney and public defender so that Veronica’s mother could be released from jail on her own recognizance and spend time with Veronica before Veronica’s death. Susan’s efforts have resulted in numerous internal departments within Suncoast Hospice | Empath Health embracing and supporting care of pediatric patients.
The Hospice Story Award is given to the person or organization that best captures his or her most meaningful hospice experience with an original creative work. The award recognizes an individual in any role within a hospice organization who most creatively and effectively conveys what their hospice experience means to them. The story can be told from any viewpoint, be it spiritual, humorous, sensitive, reflective, inspiring, challenging, etc., and may use a variety of creative mediums. The award recognizes that the work of hospice is transformative and purposeful; changing not only those we serve but also those who serve.
The Hospice Story Award Winner:
“The Outback”
Treasure Coast Hospice
“The Outback” is a short film created and produced by Treasure Coast Hospice on the life of Dylan Picariello – who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor at the age of 31Ž2. Although Dylan is currently cancer free, he is a quadriplegic and dependent on a ventilator to breathe. The short film shares that Dylan was admitted to the Little Treasures Hospice Program after becoming more lethargic and beginning to suffer lapses in memory and concentration. With the help of his therapist and a team volunteer, Dylan began producing paintings by holding his paintbrush in his mouth. To demonstrate his creativity and express his appreciation for the support provided by the team, Dylan decided that he wanted to donate one of his paintings to a community fundraiser that supports the Little Treasures program. Dylan worked diligently on his painting, which became more challenging as he became weaker and more lethargic. Working almost to the day of the event, Dylan created a beautiful landscape painting that he titled “The Outback.” Dylan’s hospice experience encouraged him to create and paint. He has completed nearly 20 paintings in the past two years.
The Excellence in Program Innovation Award recognizes services and programs provided by a hospice organization that demonstrate the power of creativity and ingenuity to impact the practice and the community. Highlighting innovative services and programs through the Excellence in Program Innovation Award not only rewards the accomplishments of hospice programs, but also challenges others to adapt inspirational ideas to their own programs and communities. Sharing and celebrating creative care establishes “best practices” that propel all of us forward.
The Excellence in Program Innovation – Community Outreach Award Winner:
“Traditions”
Suncoast Hospice | Empath Health
The “Traditions” program was created by Suncoast Hospice, a member of Empath Health, to increase the access to hospice services to underserved communities in their area, specifically African American, Hispanic, and Jewish communities, all of whom have historically underutilized hospice services. Suncoast utilized their Community Partnership Specialists to build relationships and establish trust with community leaders, faith based organizations and various community groups. It was essential to bring various voices to the conversations in an effort to create presentations that were relevant to the needs of the community and addressed their perceptions about hospice care. Each Community Partnership Specialist was responsible for listening, creating, and ultimately implementing unique outreach strategies to each community. “Traditions” identifies the customary values of each community and uses it as a foundation to deliver effective outreach resulting in increased access to hospice services and the provision of culture-specific end-of-life care.
About the Excellence in Program Innovation – Clinical Practice Award Winner:
“7-Day RN Case Management Revolution”
Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care
Led by Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care Chief Operating Officer Rhonda White, Cornerstone’s leadership team agreed to provide patients in-home access to two primary-assigned registered nurses (RNs), 7 days a week, extending into early evening hours. This plan revolutionized Cornerstone’s RN support model, resulting in better consistency, enhanced quality of care, and higher patient/family and Care Partner satisfaction. Cornerstone’s 7-day extended RN case management model focuses on three key areas: Patient/family satisfaction, operational quality and employee morale. The second “set of RN eyes” improved the adjustment of care.
The Breakthrough Awardrecognizes an individual or team who, through their efforts to research and implement new ideas, has improved hospice care. Whether piloting a new program, streamlining a process or discovering a better way to provide a service, the recipient of this award advances the mission of hospice and provides a path for others to follow.
The Breakthrough Award Winner:
Thomas A. Dalton, LMHC, MT-BC
VITAS Healthcare
Thomas A. Dalton has been in the field of music therapy for over 20 years and is a Board-Certified Music Therapist and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. He is a full-time employee of VITAS Healthcare in the Broward program and serves as the Senior Music Therapy and Music Therapy Internship Director. Thomas researched and developed the use of the Music Therapy and MIDI Protocol (MTMP) with hospice patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The inspiration for this project was based on Thomas’ work with COPD patients including working with his mother who is also struggling with COPD. The purpose of the study was to improve respiratory symptoms, well-being and quality of life for patients in physical, emotional, psychosocial and spiritual domains.
The Synergy Awardrecognizes a group of people in any role or configuration that has consistently demonstrated the ideals of collaboration and teamwork in working toward a goal or mission. This group not only seeks excellence within itself, but also inspires excellence and collaboration throughout the hospice environment.
The Synergy Award Winner:
“Clinical and HR Servant Leadership Team”
Hospice of the Comforter
The clinical and HR management teams at Hospice of the Comforter determined that listening to staff’s concerns and ideas would be a focal consideration in managing change. The clinical and HR leaders decided to structure their action plan based on the Gallup employee engagement survey. Specific challenges that were identified and addressed included a need for workplace changes that would improve the clinical staff’s ability to do their work; a need for consistent, transparent communications; and a need for consistent efforts to demonstrate appreciation of the staff. When the team evaluated the effectiveness of their efforts, they discovered that their scores on the Gallup Engagement Survey had improved by 14 percent.
For more information about the Awards of Excellence Program, to see past winners and to find out more about submitting a nomination in 2018, please visit www.floridahospices.org/forum. To learn more about hospice, palliative care, visit lethospicehelp.org.
###
About the Awards of Excellence Selection Process:
Nominations are judged by a selection committee composed of leaders within the hospice industry. The selection committee considered the examples provided and specific details that demonstrated how nominees have exceeded expectations and, by their actions, made those around them better. Nominees do not compete against each other; rather they are judged individually against a high standard of excellence and innovation.
About Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association:
Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association (FHPCA) is a not-for-profit, IRS Section 501(c)(3) organization representing hospice patients and families, hospice professionals and hospice providers. FHPCA strives to assure excellence in, and expand access to, hospice and palliative care, and advocates for the needs of those in the final stages of life.
2000 Apalachee Parkway, Suite 200, Tallahassee, Florida 32301
Telephone: 850.878.2632
Hospice Helpline: 800.282.6560
Photos:
The Catalyst Award: Susan Finkelstein – Suncoast Hospice | Empath Health
Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association President and CEO Paul Ledford
Suncoast Hospice | Empath Health Pediatric Services Manager Susan Finkelstein
The Hospice Story Award: “The Outback” – Treasure Coast Hospice
Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association President and CEO Paul Ledford
Treasure Coast Hospice Pediatric Music Therapist Jessica Sturgeon
Excellence in Program Innovation – Community Outreach: “Traditions” – Suncoast Hospice | Empath Health
Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association President and CEO Paul Ledford
Suncoast Hospice, Karen Davis-Pritchett
Suncoast Hospice Team
Excellence in Program Innovation – Clinical Practice: “7-Day RN Case Management Revolution” – Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care
Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association President and CEO Paul Ledford
Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care Association Chief Operating Officer Rhonda White
The Breakthrough Award: Thomas A. Dalton – VITAS Healthcare
Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association President and CEO Paul Ledford
VITAS Healthcare, Thomas Dalton
The Synergy Award: “Clinical and HR Servant Leadership Team” – Hospice of the Comforter
Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association President and CEO Paul Ledford
Hospice of the Comforter, Annette Carter
Hospice of the Comforter, Jennifer Kane
At Risk Registry, Craig Long
***To view photos, please visit the following link: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/zataxr3sre9vrh2/AAC1jfHz57Yn4FqcwcTRo19pa?dl=0
Orlando, Fla.—Today, during the Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association’s (FHPCA) quarterly Board Meeting in Orlando, the Board presented Liz Dudek with the Outstanding Public Service Award in recognition of decades of dedicated public service and her commitment to assuring the highest quality of hospice care for Florida residents. Dudek served as the Secretary for the Agency of Health Care Administration from 2010 through 2016 and held a number of other senior management positions at the agency since it was created in 1992. Dudek currently serves as Director of Healthcare Affairs in the Tallahassee office of the Greenberg Traurig law firm.
FHPCA’s President and CEO Paul Ledford said, “During her decades of public service at AHCA, Liz Dudek has always been an accessible and candid partner to FHPCA and the hospice providers in Florida. During that period, in each regulatory role Liz held, she matched stride with Florida’s hospice providers and played a key role in contributing to what has long been the state with the most comprehensive hospice services offered in the nation.”
FHPCA presents the Outstanding Public Service Award to former public officials who demonstrated excellence in their previous public service roles and contributed to the betterment of hospice care in Florida.
Liz Dudek said, “I sincerely thank the FHPCA for honoring me with this award. In my years as a public servant, the FHPCA and hospice providers were important partners in promoting the highest standards for the industry and were very involved in helping to develop strong regulations, rules and laws to govern the industry. I commend the FHPCA for continuing to help ensure that Florida’s hospice services remain a model for the rest of the nation.”
Following today’s quarterly Board Meeting, FHPCA will hold its 32nd annual conference, Forum 2017: Hospice Keys, on Thursday, May 25 and Friday, May 26 also in Orlando at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress. The annual conference is designed to help hospice clinical professionals unlock the key fundamental practices for providing excellent end of life care.
FHPCA, whose board is comprised of the executives of 41 hospice organizations in Florida, strives to assure excellence in, and expand access to, hospice and palliative care, and advocate for the needs of those in the final phases of life. The vision of the FHPCA is to make Florida the model state for hospice and palliative care services.
Today, FHPCA’s House Bill 539- “An Act Relating to Hospices” passed the Florida House Health Innovation Subcommittee. This bill addresses quality measures, prescription drug disposal after a patient’s death, and palliative care services to non-hospice, seriously ill patients.
Here’s the moment the bill passed:
Learn more information about FHPCA’s 2017 Legislative Advocacy (HERE)
Our Forum Website is now live and you can register for your spot at FHPCA’s Annual Forum!
Whether you are a seasoned hospice professional or have just begun your career in hospice, having a solid foundation is key to your success.
Social workers, chaplains, physicians, nurses, aides and anyone who works in end of life care is invited to join us for the 32nd annual FHPCA Forum to unlock the key fundamental practices that equip all hospice professionals for providing excellent end of life care.
You can book your hotel at the Hyatt Grand Regency here.
Take a sneak peek at our Agenda
Or
Just Register right away here!
For more information, you can visit our Forum Website.
October is breast cancer awareness month, and FHPCA wants to remind women everywhere to get tested early. The American Cancer Society recommends that all women over the age of 40 get an annual mammogram and a clinical physical examination. For more information about breast cancer, visit the American Cancer Society’s website.
If you have lost a loved one and would like to speak to someone, contact your local hospice program. Hospice offers community support groups, sometimes specific to diseases like canc
er, that are free and open to the public. Your loved one did not have to receive hospice care in order to attend these support groups. Find your local hospice by visiting our Find-a-Provider page.
Also see: Breast Cancer Facts & Figures
In a span of a month, two hurricanes have battered Florida’s coast. Recently, Hurricane Matthew left the Northeast Coast with damaged homes, fallen trees, dangerous flooding, and power outages. Severe weather can come to our doorstep at anytime and that’s why Floridians must prepare –including hospice programs around the state.
Forty-five hospice programs currently serve the state of Florida and each program has had an Emergency Preparedness Plan in place since the 1990s. Hospice programs serve over 127,800 patients in Florida each year.
At Community Hospice of Northeast Florida, staff worked together to safely evacuate their patients, family members, and pets.
“We made sure that each of our approximately 1,200 patients had a plan for their care during and after the storm; enough medicine, medical equipment, and other needed supplies to get them through that period of time,” explained Susan Ponder-Stansel, President and CEO of Community Hospice.
She went on to say, “Our plan worked. The care to our patients and support for their needs did not falter during the storm. The reason we were able to do so well is because of the dedication, professionalism, and tireless work of our staff.”
Another program affected by Hurricane Matthew was Cornerstone Hospice. Leadership at Cornerstone operated from an abundance of caution, remembering that Polk County was hit by three hurricanes in 2004.
Rhonda White, Cornerstone Hospice Chief Operations Officer shared, “We activated our plan a little earlier than normal. We contacted all of our patients, educated them on what was going on in case they weren’t watching the news. We made sure that they had a certain amount of medication and supplies on hand so we didn’t have delivery issues.”
Due to the unpredictable nature of the storm and challenges of navigating curfews set by local officials, safety was a top priority. Some of the programs, like Cornerstone Hospice, cover multiple counties where the watches and warnings were different.
As storms begin to approach the state it’s important to maintain constant communication with patients to verify medications and ensure they evacuate safely. Part of a hospice program’s preparedness plan is the ‘Tuck in Process’, which ensures patients have seven days worth of medication, evacuation plans, alternative power for any medical equipment and assistance to a special needs shelter.
The goal is to make sure each patient has a plan and is safe.
Rhonda White’s team used this process during Hurricane Matthew, “We really wanted to verify medications in the home – how much, how many supplies, those kinds of things. Did they understand how to use their oxygen tanks because that is confusing if you’re not used to transferring over to a tank.”
After the storm, there was a feeling of relief because hospice patients and programs did not suffer any catastrophic impact and staff returned to regular operation this week.
You can’t wait to develop a plan. Being in the midst of a serious weather event demands a concrete emergency plan to be in place. Some hospice patients are cared for at an in-patient facility, but the majority are cared for in homes. For hospices, service areas may cross several counties and requires not only a high level of preparedness but also organization.
The care and safety of patients is always a top priority – even during a severe storm.
To learn more about hospice programs in Florida, check out LetHospiceHelp.org or call the hospice helpline at 800-282-6560.
The attacks that occurred in Orlando this past weekend brought a sense of hopelessness and deep sorrow to communities across Florida. How can people deal with grief during this difficult time? At the Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association, we want people to know they can turn to our hospice providers for bereavement support. In a recent interview, Community Hospice of Northeast Florida explains the help grief programs provide to those individuals impacted by the tragedy in Orlando.
Click here for to watch the full story on Community Hospice of Northeast Florida’s Grief Counseling.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Following the devastating attack in Orlando over the weekend, the Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association (FHPCA) encourages communities across the state of Florida to contact their local hospice provider for grief and bereavement services.
Hospices offer bereavement counseling, workshops, support groups and a compassionate environment for people who need help in times of grief. These services are open to community members even if their loved-one did not die in hospice. Those interested can visit lethospicehelp.org, a website offering answers to questions about grief and provides a searchable hospice provider directory.
FHPCA President & CEO Paul Ledford said, “This tragic incident affects so many people in Florida and across our country. We want everyone affected by this situation to know our hospice providers are available to provide grief and bereavement support during this difficult time. It is important to come together and let families know they are not alone, and our thoughts and prayers are with Orlando, the LGBTQ community, and all those touched by the events of Sunday morning.”
Local hospice programs are ready and able to help those dealing with the loss of a loved one or struggling to understand the events that transpired over the weekend in Orlando. For more information on how to access this type of support, visit Let Hospice Help’s website at lethospicehelp.org.
###
Media Contact: Evelyn Hernandez, Marketing & PR Specialist
evelyn@nullfloridahospices.org | 850-878-2632
About Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association:
Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association (FHPCA) is a not-for-profit, IRS Section 501(c)(3) organization representing hospice patients and families, hospice professionals and hospice providers. FHPCA strives to assure excellence in, and expand access to, hospice and palliative care, and advocates for the needs of those in the final stages of life.
2000 Apalachee Parkway, Suite 200, Tallahassee, Florida 32301
Telephone: 850.878.2632
Hospice Helpline: 800.282.6560
Charles Suggs lII, MD Medical Director of Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care
So you have heard about palliative care, but are unsure of what it is. Palliative care (pronounced pal-lee-uh-tiv) is specialized medical care for people with serious and chronic illnesses. It focuses on providing patients with relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of a serious illness—whatever the diagnosis. The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family.
Palliative care is provided by a team of doctors, nurses and other specialists who work together with a patient’s other doctors to provide an extra layer of support. It is appropriate at any age and at any stage in a serious illness. Plus, it can be provided along with curative treatment.
If you are considering looking into palliative care but need to know more, below is some information that can help you to decide if palliative care is right for you. There are many benefits of palliative care (comfort care) for both patients and their families.
Pain and symptom control: The palliative care team identifies sources of pain and discomfort. These may include problems with breathing, fatigue, depression, bowel/bladder or insomnia. The team will provide treatments that can offer relief, including medication, along with massage therapy or relaxation techniques.
Communication and coordination: Palliative care teams are extremely good communicators. They put great importance on communication between you, your family and your doctors in order to ensure that your needs are fully met. These include establishing goals for your care, help with decision-making and coordination of care. Palliative care teams also can help families develop advance care plans, including healthcare directives.
Emotional support: Palliative care focuses on the entire person, not just the illness. The team members caring for you will address any social, psychological, emotional or spiritual needs. During the initial consult, the palliative care team member goalis improve patient satisfaction.
Family/caregiver support: Caregivers bear a great deal of stress too, so the palliative care team supports them as well. This focused attention helps ease some of the strain and can help you with your decision-making.
How do I know if palliative care is right for me? Palliative care may be right for you if you are experiencing pain, stress and other symptoms due to a serious illness. Serious illnesses include but are not limited to: cancer, cardiac disease, respiratory disease, kidney failure, Alzheimer’s, AIDS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple sclerosis. Palliative care is appropriate at any stage of a serious illness and you can get it along with treatment meant to cure you.
Other signs that palliative care may be helpful for you include: frequent ER visits or hospital admissions for the same condition, functional or cognitive decline, weight loss, increased safety and behavioral concerns, caregiver stress, chronic home oxygen use or limited social and home resources and service support.
Will my insurance cover palliative care? Most insurance plans cover all or part of the palliative care treatment you receive, just as with other hospital and medical services. This is also true of Medicare and Medicaid. If costs concern you, a social worker or financial consultant from the palliative care team can help you with payment options.
Do I have to give up my own doctor? The palliative care team provides an extra layer of support and works in partnership with your primary doctor. Your primary doctor will continue to direct your care and play an active role in your treatment.
Can I have curative treatment together with palliative care? Absolutely. Your treatment choices are up to you. You can get palliative care at the same time as treatment meant to cure you.
Where is palliative care provided? Palliative care can be provided in a number of places. These include hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term-care facilities or home.
It’s that time again! Time to select those outstanding hospice professionals you would like to see nominated for the “Awards of Excellence“. For those who might not know, these awards are a unique opportunity for outstanding individuals to get statewide recognition for consistent dedication to teamwork, innovation and more in hospice. It’s a celebration of excellence for the delivery of hospice and palliative care. You are free to make more than one nomination for those you feel compelled to, in fact we encourage it. The awards are open to employees or volunteers who are members of FHPCA and in the Florida hospice community.
Nominations are judged by a selection committee composed of leaders within the hospice industry. The selection committee is looking for examples and specific details that demonstrate how nominees have exceeded expectations and, by their actions, made those around them better. Nominees must be an FHPCA member in good standing at the time of nomination and at the time of the award presentation.
Individual Awards
This award recognizes an individual in any role within an organization who has consistently demonstrated leadership in forging the collaboration that makes hospice unique. This individual seeks excellence not only in his/her field, but also in cooperation with other disciplines. He/she fosters collaboration and brings teams together to the betterment of his/her organization. This award celebrates the spirit of collaboration within a hospice organization. As hospice is the sum of many parts working together to care for patients and families, this award honors individuals who lead across disciplines and foster teamwork within their sphere of influence.For more information on nomination rules and requirements, click HERE.
Program Awards
Is the Award of Excellence to the group that makes collaboration happen. This award recognizes a group of people in any role or configuration that has consistently demonstrated the ideals of collaboration and teamwork in working toward a goal or mission. This group not only seeks excellence within itself, but also inspires excellence and collaboration throughout the hospice environment. As hospice is the sum of many parts working together to care for patients and families, this award champions the spirit of teamwork and honors teams who make hospice work better and more effectively. For more information on nomination rules and requirements, click HERE.
The Breakthrough Award recognizes an individual or team who, through their efforts to research and implement new ideas, has improved hospice care. Whether piloting a new program, streamlining a process or discovering a better way to provide a service, the recipient of this award advances the mission of hospice and provides a path for others to follow. For more information on nomination rules and requirements, click HERE.
Each of the 2016 award winners will receive a cash prize in addition to a recognition plaque. The winning individuals and programs will be celebrated by their peers from around the state at the annual Awards of Excellence luncheon held on June 2nd in conjunction with FHPCA’s non-clinical conference, Hospice Works. Winners will also be featured state-wide in FHPCA’s newsletter, website, and social media outlets, as well as a press release sent to media professionals across the state.
This is a quick an easy process. Press the nomination below to get started! We encourage you not to stop at one nomination, especially if you feel that multiple people have achieved excellence in the above categories. There are a few nomination submission requirements so be sure to read carefully through those and follow the instructions.
When Is the Ceremony?
The ceremony to be held Thursday, June 2nd at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld in conjunction with FHPCA’s Hospice Works Forum.
What Is the Deadline to Submit Nominations?
Deadline to submit entries is MONDAY, MARCH 21st.
For more information, visit our Forum Annual Conference Website.
Our 2016 “Hospice Works” Forum registration is now open! This is an end-of-life conference designed for administrative hospice professionals working in:
Full Conference Rate (June 2 & 3) – $370.00
Thursday Only Rate (June 2) – $215.00
Friday Only Rate (June 3) – $179.00 REGISTER ONLINE
(for individuals)
(for groups)
Please Note: Registrations received or changed after 5/20/16 will incur a $50 charge.
Brother At Rest, the painting created at the 2015 FHPCA Forum Conference, spent the past two weeks at Gulfside Hospice where it spent time among seniors, patients and families.
Gulfside Hospice took the painting to a few local senior residence facilities where they displayed the painting and gave a group of residents their own canvas so that they could be inspired to paint what represented hospice or being at peace and rest to them.
It was a great turn out each time and all the residents seemed to love it – it was a unique activity and a soft way for our representatives to bring up the topic of hospice.
When the painting was not touring the county’s facilities, it was on display at the Gulfside Centers for Hospice Care so that staff, patients and families could view it.
You can purchase a 8×10, limited edition print of Brother At Rest online HERE. All proceeds go to the artist and towards FHPCA’s mission to assure access and excellence to those in the final phases of life.
Brother At Rest has now moved to Big Bend Hospice in Tallahassee! Stay tuned and see how it spends it time in the Big Bend area.
Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association (FHPCA) is pleased to announce Let Hospice Help, a new initiative to increase public awareness of hospice care in Florida.
Paul Ledford, President & CEO of FHPCA, says, “We realize that there is a lot of information out there about hospice, but oftentimes sifting through that information can be overwhelming for a family member trying to understand hospice for the first time. This campaign is simple and clean, and gets patients and families to information quickly and easily.”
The Let Hospice Help campaign aims to give the basics of what a patient or a family member needs to know about hospice, but also to highlight some of the lesser know benefits of hospice care, such as grief and bereavement support.
For more information about Let Hospice Help, visit the website at lethospicehelp.org.
