The mission of Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital is, "To improve the health of those we serve." The Transitions Program is Memorial Hospital's palliative care program and will celebrate its 3rd year of operation in June 2012. Memorial Hospital does not have an inpatient palliative care program and has determined that a community based approach would be most effective. Transitions offers comfort-focused, in-home coordinated services to adults who have a life-limiting illness. Many of these clients will enter hospice care, but need care in the interim. The goal is to enhance a client's quality of life and provide information, resources and support to help clients plan for anticipated life changes. Services are provided by the Transitions Program coordinator, MSW, social worker and trained volunteers. Clients are encouraged to make informed decisions for future planning. Clients and their families are linked to community agencies such as Meals-on-Meals, ResCare HomeCare, People for People and elder care services. Specially trained Transitions volunteers are assigned to provide clients and their families with practical support such as running errands, transportation to doctors appointments, food preparation, light housekeeping, companionship, and emotional support. All of these volunteer services allow for community partnerships and involvement in the provision of services to a vulnerable population. No other coordinated care and support exists in our area for this crucial time in a client's life. The AmeriCorps member will grow and improve services to the Transition program clients. The AmeriCorps project will "improve the health of those we serve" by giving practical assistance to those with a life-limiting illness.

Services are provided by the Transitions Program coordinator, AmeriCorps volunteer, MSW students and trained volunteers. Clients and their families are linked to community agencies such as Meals-on-Wheels, ResCare HomeCare, People for People and elder care services. Clients are encouraged to make informed decisions for future planning. The AmeriCorps member will provide clients and their families with practical support such as running errands, food preparation, transportation, light housekeeping, companionship, and emotional support All of these services allow for community partnerships and involvement in the provision of services to a vulnerable population. The AmeriCorps member will also assist in recruiting and nurturing the volunteer staff to ensure retention and growth in the volunteer base. Recruiting will include public speaking presentations, participating in health fairs and other appropriate events especially those including or related to veterans.

http://www.yakimamemorialhospital.org

• dottie hildebrand
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