Meet the Hospice Team
The Hospice team works tirelessly to make sure all the needs of the
patient and family are met physically, spiritually, socially and
emotionally.
Medical Director
Dr. Younger, UnityPoint Hospice Medical Director, works closely
with each patient's doctor to provide oversight and assistance as needed
for Hospice care. He is involved with patient care meetings, is
available for consultation and may visit Hospice patients in their home
and in care facilities.
Physician support
Support for Dr. Younger is of key importance to the Hospice team. Beth Kirton is the
Hospice Nurse Practitioner. Amy visits patients where they reside
for routine care and re-certification visits.
Nursing staff
Our Hospice Nurses focus on providing comfort measures,
effective symptom management and compassionate care for patients and
their families. The nurses are your primary contact for any medical
questions or needs as they will work closely with your physician.
Hospice nurses are available 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
Social workers
Hospice Social Workers assist patients and their families by
providing counseling and support. They maintain patient dignity through
support of their cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds. They also
provide bereavement support to the family after a loved one's death for
up to 13 months.
Chaplains
Our Hospice Chaplains are available to meet the spiritual
needs of our patients and their families. Chaplain services are
non-denominational and optional. Patients and families may choose to
receive support from their own clergy.
Click for a list of Spiritual and Holistic applications for smartphones or tablets
Hospice aides
Our Hospice Aides are available for personal care and
one-on-one assistance. They will help with bathing, feeding, small
household chores and more. Their goal is to help you and your loved one
with your everyday needs.
Therapists
Our Hospice provides several therapies as needed to patients.
Our massage therapist is available to help release tension for patients and provide a form of relaxation. Music therapy is also available upon request to bring added relief where
needed.
Bereavement Support
Bereavement support is an important part of the services provided by
UnityPoint Hospice. The ability to cope after a loved one's death is
often dependent upon the support system of each individual. This support
system may include family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, recreational
groups and faith communities. It is sometimes helpful to seek out
additional support, such as support groups, to learn about the grief
process and share with people who are on the same journey.
Our bereavement program can support you with:
Volunteers
Our Hospice Volunteers use their interests, skills and
experience to comfort and enrich quality of life for patients and
families. Hospice Volunteers advocate for patients and families by being
compassionate listeners and willing supporters. Visits are scheduled to
match a patient's individual needs.