State of Hospice of the North Coast

A message from Sharon- State of Hospice of the North Coast

As we close 2014 I want to take a few moments to recap the year we have experienced at Hospice of the North Coast. Like all years, we have had many successes and a few opportunities that helped redirect our passion for serving patients at the end of life.

We began the year with the Joint Commission accreditation of Pacifica House. This has added a new dimension to the services we can offer to our patients at the end of life. The feedback from families has been only positive.

In the springtime, discussions with Scripps turned to a real possibility that HNC would merge with the Scripps Hospice.   After many months, the mutual conclusion was that the two cultures, while both are patient-centered, were too far apart.  HNC elected to remain an independent hospice with the ability to respond quickly to changes in healthcare and, more importantly, the immediate needs of our patients and the community.

It was with much sadness in June that we said “goodbye” to Executive Director Nerice Kaufman, who accepted a position with Sutter VNA in the Bay Area.  She made many changes while at Hospice of the North Coast, and we know her knowledge and leadership will greatly impact the community she now serves.

HNC closed out the year with its annual Light Up A Life candle-lighting memorial.  This year’s change of venue, day and time resulted in a magical, intimate event, with more than 100 community members joined together under the stars to honor and remember their loved ones.  Music, lights, snacks and good company made for a wonderful evening.  I hope to see you at next year’s event!

Hospice of the North Coast continues its long history of providing exceptional, patient-centered care in an individualized, compassionate manner.  With the addition of Pacifica House, which has been serving patients for one year, HNC will continue to offer patients and families additional services, which allows for a unique, customized end-of-life experience.  We look forward to continuing to serve the community in 2015.

From our Hospice family to yours, we wish you Peace and Joy in the New Year.