Hospice

About Hospice Services

Hospice care is care for those who have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness. The focus is on providing comfort rather than cure. The physician must sign a certification that the patient has six months or less life expectancy.

Hospice care is provided to clients in their homes, in an assisted living facility, or in a long-term care environment. Our team assists with education and counseling regarding end-of-life issues, physical, emotional and spiritual.

The CHI Health at Home hospice goal is to help patients and their families during their end-of-life journey through a team approach to care. Our team of nurses, social workers, aides, chaplain, massage therapist, volunteers and medical director collaborate with patients and their families regarding their end-of-life wishes and work diligently to keep patients comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for hospice services?

Patients diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and life expectancy of six months or less. Terminal diagnoses are not limited to cancer.

When should a decision about hospice be made?

As soon as patients choose to not seek further curative treatment for their disease is the best time to contact hospice. Our team is best able to serve you and your family as we become better acquainted with you earlier on your journey.

How does hospice work?

Referrals may come from anyone. Acceptance is based on program criteria and physician consent.
Hospice staff visit with you and your family in your home to discuss comfort measures and quality of life.
The hospice staff is available at any time for consultation and visiting.
Hospice provides supportive services to assist families in caring for their loved ones.

Bereavement services are provided to family for up to 13 months after the death of a hospice patient.

What services are available?

Hospice provides intermittent visits from a team of nurses, aides, social workers, volunteers and a chaplain. Our medical director is also involved in the care of the hospice patient and may also make a home visit. When indicated, inpatient and respite services are also available through hospice.

Is hospice covered by insurance?

Hospice services are covered by most insurance plans. We will always keep you informed of any potential cost that may be incurred.

Why choose CHI Health at Home Hospice?

CHI Health at Home consistently ranks as a top performer in symptom management and patient satisfaction.

CHI Health at Home has a close connection to our local family practice providers and, in most cases, is able to most effectively and efficiently manage your care.

CHI Health at Home is part of your local continuum of care with CHI St. Gabriel’s Health.

Our team of experienced professionals was the first hospice team to serve Morrison County and the surrounding areas. We are neighbors serving neighbors.

Our medical director — Dr. Lisa Germscheid — is board certified in hospice and palliative care and works closely with the hospice team as we care for families.

Memorials and Gifts

Memorials and gifts to CHI Health at Home are used to ensure the continuation of hospice services for clients and families in our community, for specialized end-of-life publications and other educational offerings, and for the addition of new initiatives. Donations are tax-deductible (according to state and federal law) and may be sent to CHI Health at Home, 815 SE 2nd Street, Little Falls, MN 56345

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are vital to the mission of hospice and CHI Health at Home Each and every day, our volunteers reflect the compassionate spirit of our ministry through office work, community support, visiting patients who are being served by our hospice team and supporting their families. If you are interested in becoming a hospice volunteer, contact Becca Gosset 320-631-5581.

Grief Support and Recovery Groups

For more information contact:

CHI Health at Home
320-631-5575
Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and by appointment on the weekends
Hospice staff are available to our hospice families 24 hours a day seven days a week.