Special to The Post-Searchlight

Gentiva Hospice, part of the nationwide family of Gentiva home health and hospice companies, joins in celebrating National Hospice Month.

Every November, this observance honors hospice workers — including nurses, aides, social workers and administrators — who make a remarkable difference in the daily lives of patients and their families.

“We are thrilled to be celebrating the achievements of the hardworking employees of Gentiva Hospice during National Hospice Month,” said Keith Trawick, branch director. “Every American family has faced the challenges that go along with caring for loved ones facing a terminal illness. November is a time to recognize and applaud the people who work so hard every day to help improve the lives of patients and families by working with them in the comfort of the patients’ own homes.”

Trawick pointed out that November also marks the beginning of the holiday period when patients especially want to be at home with their loved ones.

“This is a time when we like to remind our patients, their families and their physicians that we provide care in the home setting throughout the holidays, every day of the week,” he said.

Hospice services involve providing expert medical care, pain management and emotional and spiritual support to patients primarily in their homes or other type of residence. It is designed to ensure each person’s right to die pain-free and with dignity, and see that patients’ families receive the support necessary to encourage this type of care.

While hospice services continue to increase across the country, some common misconceptions that may prevent timely access to this important end-of-life care still exist. The annual celebration of National Hospice Month serves to educate Americans about hospice service and dispel myths about it.

Patients, family caregivers, physicians, and other referral sources who wish to learn more can contact Gentiva Hospice at (229) 246-6330.