Hospice Care

Someone Who Cares

It can be overwhelming when you, or someone you are close to, is facing a terminal illness. The Berger Hospice Care team understands, and because this level of care is so important, we offer Hospice services through a caring team to everyone – regardless of ability to pay. We are also the only non-profit Hospice organization in Pickaway County.

Our Team

Every member of the Hospice team is dedicated to optimizing the quality of life in the comfort and safety of a home environment that includes skilled nursing facilities. This is done through a holistic approach to care that provides for the medical and emotional needs of patients. Team Members Include:

• John Bohlen, M.D., Medical Director
• Social Worker
• Chaplain
• Specially Trained Hospice Volunteers
• Auxiliary Professionals as Needed
• Registered Nurses
• Hospice Aides
• Bereavement Counselors

Services to Patients

• Pain and symptom management
• Provision and management of medication(s)
• Recommendation and arrangement for medical equipment
• Provision of physical and speech therapy if needed
• Health education and nutrition counseling
• Personal care and companionship
• Hospice services can now be provided along with
• Passport care
• Respite care in the home or in the hospital
• Assistance in connecting with community resources
• Spiritual needs support for any religious preference
• Bereavement support and counseling services

Qualifying for Hospice Services

Patients are accepted into the Hospice program regardless of any physical disability or their ability to pay, provided they meet the following criteria:

• The patient has an estimated life expectancy of six months or less.
• The choice to no longer receive curative treatment has been made.
• The patient is a resident of, or near Pickaway County.
• The patient desires to receive care in a home environment, whether that is the patient's residence or a skilled nursing facility. (Hospice can also care for the patient when they are hospitalized.)
• The patient has established a provider to oversee his or her care, whether it be his or her primary provider or the Hospice Medical Director.
• Ultimately, the patient will need to identify a friend or family member as his or her caregiver.