Hospice of Okeechobee

Hospice of Okeechobee helps individuals with life-limiting illnesses. We offer a support system to help individuals live as actively as possible, given their current circumstances. Hospice staff will make scheduled nursing visits to the patient’s home or Raulerson Hospital, with the goal of providing relief from pain and other distressing symptoms. In addition to routinely scheduled visits, our nursing staff is available to assist patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are never more than a phone call away. For those choosing to live in The Hamrick Home, a nurse is present at the hospice residence at all times to attend to patient needs. The Hospice philosophy integrates the psychological and spiritual aspects of patient care with the provision of medical care. Services are available from not only nurses and nurse’s aides; but also social workers, chaplains, and volunteers. All care provided is tailored to the patient’s unique needs and wishes. Hospice covers the cost of medical equipment and prescription medication (related to the life-limiting illness), in addition to staff visits. We aggressively treat and expertly manage all pain and physical symptoms. We have a tradition of caring based on a foundation of excellence. Individuals with a life limiting illness who live in Okeechobee or the surrounding communities are eligible for care from Hospice of Okeechobee. Hospice provides palliative (comfort) care. Services are provided where the patient lives, at The Hamrick Home, or in Raulerson Hospital. This is determined based on the patient’s wishes and individual circumstances. Hospice care can positively influence the course of an illness. If your condition improves, and your doctor feels you no longer qualify for hospice care, you may leave hospice care and return later if needed. Services are provided regardless of age, gender, nationality, race, creed, sexual orientation, disability, diagnosis, or availability of a primary caregiver, or ability to pay. Your doctor remains in charge of your care even when you come to Hospice. If you have concerns about treatment options in the future, including stopping Hospice care to pursue other treatment, we encourage you to discuss it with your doctor. We offer a special support system to help caregivers cope with the demands placed on them, and use a team approach in the provision of care. The family is provided training in patient care by the nursing staff. Our goal is to improve the quality of life of both our patients and their families. Hospice’s focus is on the provision of palliative care to prevent and relieve suffering. This approach gives family members peace of mind, knowing that the best care possible is being provided.