Overview
Windber Hospice, located in Windber, Pennsylvania, has been providing compassionate care for over 40 years. Founded by Dr. Earl Shope, it is recognized as the first hospice program in Pennsylvania and the first rural hospice in the United States. The organization focuses on delivering comfort and support to terminally ill patients and their families, emphasizing dignity and compassion throughout the care process.
Services & Support
Windber Hospice offers a range of services designed to meet the needs of patients and their families. The hospice program provides end-of-life care in both home settings and within the Windber Palliative Care Unit, which offers a home-like environment for inpatient care. The interdisciplinary team includes medical professionals and trained volunteers who work collaboratively to ensure that patients receive both clinical excellence and emotional support during their final days.
Care Approach & Staff
The care approach at Windber Hospice is centered around holistic and compassionate support. The facility employs a full-time medical director who is board-certified in both internal medicine and integrative/holistic medicine, ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient care. Families have noted the staff’s dedication, with many expressing gratitude for the daily communication and heartfelt compassion they received during difficult times.
Who They Serve
Windber Hospice serves a broad range of communities, including Cambria, Bedford, Somerset, and parts of Blair, Indiana, and Westmoreland counties. The program is designed to support not only the patients but also their families, helping them navigate the emotional challenges associated with end-of-life care.
What Families Say
Families have shared positive experiences with Windber Hospice, highlighting the staff’s kindness and support during challenging times. Many have expressed appreciation for the comfort provided to their loved ones and the assistance offered to families in the grieving process. One family noted that the staff were “amazing” and exceeded their expectations, while another mentioned the “special angels” who supported them during their loss.
Room for Improvement
While many reviews reflect positive experiences, there was an instance where a family expressed frustration over a lack of empathy during a critical call for assistance, indicating that there may be areas for improvement in communication during stressful situations.
Summary
Windber Hospice is a well-respected hospice provider in Windber, Pennsylvania, known for its compassionate care and support for terminally ill patients and their families. With a dedicated staff and a holistic approach to end-of-life care, Windber Hospice strives to provide comfort and dignity during a challenging time.