What is Hospice?

Hospice services provide compassionate medical support, comfort, and dignity for patients in their final stage of life. The goal is to relieve pain and other distressing symptoms of serious illness so patients and their loved ones can focus on making the most of their remaining time together.

In-Home Hospice Services:

The MaineHealth Care at Home in-home hospice program uses a collaborative approach to end-of-life care. Teams of physicians, nurses, social workers, volunteers, home health aides, counselors, and chaplains work together to provide each patient with specialized services that promote dignity and quality of life. Services available in the Maine mid-coast region include:

• Respite care that allows primary caregivers to take a much-deserved break
• Education about the disease process that helps patients and family members adjust to medical changes
• Personal care and homemaking services
• Counseling and emotional support
• Physical, occupational, and speech therapies
• Alternative therapies such as massage, reflexology, Reiki, acupuncture, and music
• Companionship and spiritual guidance
• Bereavement counseling
• Telehealth video-consultations

Inpatient Hospice Services:

When a loved one needs advanced help with pain control and symptom management, an inpatient hospice facility such as a hospital, long-term care facility, or free-standing facility (like the Sussman House) is the solution. In an inpatient hospice facility, nurses are available around the clock to administer medications, treatments and emotional support to make the patient more comfortable. Inpatient hospice care often allows patients to control their symptoms so that they can return home for in-home hospice care.

What is MaineHealth Care at Home?

In partnership with MaineHealth and the Pen Bay Medical Center, MaineHealth Care at Home provides home-based hospice services in Knox, Waldo, and Lincoln counties. Patients can receive hospice care in their home, in a healthcare facility, or in an assisted living center. Those who need short-term, inpatient care may be eligible for services at the Sussman House.