Providing compassionate in-home and out-patient care in Plymouth, NH

Transformative Benefits of Hospice Care for Patients & Families

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Highlights the Transformative Benefits of Hospice Care for Patients and Families

Facing a terminal diagnosis is undoubtedly a challenging time for both patients and their families. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, a leading provider of compassionate end-of-life care, emphasizes that hospice services can bring comfort, support, and a renewed focus on quality of life during this difficult journey.Hospice care with Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH

Contrary to common misconceptions, being on hospice does not signify an imminent end to life. In fact, it is not uncommon for patients to graduate from hospice care, demonstrating the positive impact these services can have. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health aims to shed light on the numerous benefits of hospice care, not only for the patient but also for their family and caregivers.

To qualify for hospice, patients must have a terminal diagnosis with an expected life expectancy of six months or less. However, this does not mean that the patient will necessarily pass away within that timeframe, but rather that it is the anticipated duration. Hospice services fall under Medicare A benefits, meaning that the hospice provider covers the cost of care related to the terminal diagnosis.

The comprehensive range of services provided under hospice care includes skilled nursing, medical equipment, necessary medical supplies, medications, social worker support, chaplain services for spiritual needs, assistance from home health aides, bereavement support, and respite care. All these services can be administered either in the patient’s home or in a facility.

In cases where a patient is in a facility, hospice services act as an additional layer of support, complementing the existing care provided by the facility. This ensures that patients receive holistic and personalized care that addresses their unique physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Melissa Smith, RN Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, Plymouth, NH
“Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals facing terminal illnesses and providing invaluable support to their families. Hospice care is not about giving up; it’s about improving the remaining time, offering comfort, and empowering patients to live their final days with dignity,” said Melissa Smith, RN, MSN, Home Health, Palliative Care & Hospice Director at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health.

By dispelling misconceptions and highlighting the array of services offered, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health aims to encourage individuals and their families to consider hospice care as a positive and transformative option during challenging times. For more information about the benefits of hospice care, please contact us by calling 603-536-2232.

Seeking Palliative Care and Hospice Care Early: Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Emphasizes the Importance of Timely Support

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, a leading provider of compassionate healthcare services, is urging individuals and their families to consider seeking palliative care and hospice care at the earliest stages of a serious illness diagnosis. By doing so, patients can experience improved quality of life, better pain management, and emotional support while relieving the burden on families and caregivers.Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health Nurse visiting Hospice patient and family, Plymouth NH

Recognizing the pivotal role of early intervention in enhancing patients’ well-being, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to raising awareness about the benefits of seeking these services well before the stage when death is imminent. Often, patients and families are under the misconception that hospice care is only meant for end-of-life situations. However, integrating palliative care and hospice care early in the care continuum can lead to holistic care and optimal outcomes.

Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of serious illnesses, with the aim of improving the patient’s overall quality of life. Hospice care, on the other hand, is a specialized form of care provided to individuals with a life-limiting illness when curative treatments are no longer effective. It prioritizes comfort and emotional support, enabling patients to spend their remaining time in a comfortable and dignified manner.

“Timely access to palliative and hospice care can significantly enhance the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of patients,” stated Dr. Kristi Saunders, Hospice Medical Director at Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health. “By initiating these services early, we can create a care plan that addresses not only the medical needs, but just as important if not more, the emotional and spiritual dimensions of the patient’s journey.”

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health’s team of experienced professionals is dedicated to guiding patients and their families through this challenging phase. Through personalized consultations, they assess the patient’s needs and preferences, allowing them to tailor a comprehensive care plan that aligns with the patient’s goals and values.

The benefits of early palliative and hospice care include:

  1. Enhanced Quality of Life: By managing symptoms and providing emotional support, patients can continue to engage in activities that bring them joy, maintaining a sense of purpose.
  2. Reduced Hospitalizations: Early intervention can help prevent crises and hospitalizations, reducing stress on both patients and families.
  3. Effective Symptom Management: Expert pain and symptom management contribute to a more comfortable and dignified experience for the patient.
  4. Emotional Support: Patients and families receive counseling and emotional support to navigate the challenges of a serious illness.
  5. Informed Decision-Making: Early involvement of palliative and hospice care specialists allows for informed decisions about treatments and interventions that align with the patient’s wishes.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health welcomes individuals and families to learn more about their services through their website, www.pbhha.org, or by calling 603-536-2232 to arrange a free consultation. The organization emphasizes that seeking palliative care and hospice care early is a proactive step towards ensuring the best possible quality of life during a challenging time.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 32 towns in Belknap and Grafton counties since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors.  In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

~Written by Anna Swanson

Top 5 Misconceptions Regarding Hospice Care

There are many misconceptions around hospice care that often keep patients and caregivers from seeking it out when it could be of benefit and provide much-needed comfort to loved ones in their last days. Here are some of the top misconceptions patients and caregivers have:

Misconception 1: Hospice care is a death sentence.  Because it often comes at the end of life, it is a popular belief that hospice care means death is imminent. This can certainly be the case if hospice care is delayed until the very end, but waiting until the last minute is not an ideal situation for the patient or the hospice provider. The Medicare benefit has structured hospice benefits for the last six months of life. Patients may remain in hospice care longer if their illness continues to run its course and there is no cure.

Misconception 2: Hospice care means giving up.  Hospice care does mean giving up active treatment for your disease. This choice is made because treatments no longer work or the side effects of treatment are worse than the disease itself. However, hospice never gives up hope for the patient; hope just takes a different form. It might not be hope for a long life but hope for another year, or to make it to an event or milestone. End-of-life care focuses on making the remainder of one’s life as fulfilling as possible. Patients can still travel, enjoy family reunions and celebrate life events.

Misconception 3: Hospice care is expensive.  Medicare pays for hospice, and most insurances will have hospice benefits. Hospice covers medications, durable medical equipment and medical supplies related to terminal illnesses. This is a substantial help to families. For more information on what’s covered by Medicare, visit https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/hospice-care

Misconception 4: Hospice care ends with the passing of the patient.  Hospice continues to follow the bereaved family for 13 months beyond the life of the patient, understanding that those “left behind” continue to need support, people to confide in and sometimes just notes to say someone is there for them if they need to talk. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health offers in-person and on line grief support groups and individual support with their chaplains, Guy Tillson and Salvatore Ippolito.

Misconception 5: Hospice care means 24-hour care.  It is important to know that hospice care does not mean somebody is there with your loved one all hours of the day. Our nurse, chaplain or social worker will visit according to your needs and preferences; the visit times and days are flexible. The bulk of hands-on care is provided by family or private caregivers throughout a patient’s time in hospice. Our hospice team will teach caregivers how to give medications, address symptom management and deliver the correct care.

I have questions, when should I reach out to get them answered? 

If you have questions about the stage of your loved one’s illness, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health will meet with you in-person or via a phone call to answer your questions. It’s never too early to start asking. It is best to reach out while your loved one is still undergoing treatment for their serious illness. Our Palliative care team helps those with Cancer, Diabetes, Stroke, COPD, ALS, Emphysema, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Congestive Heart Failure, Liver or Kidney Disease, Dementia or other serious progressive illness.

“Being involved with the patient soon after prognosis allows our nurses to help manage the symptoms, pain and stress that comes with their illness. We work with their primary care physician and family to make them as comfortable as possible and improve their quality of life,” said Tori Clark, MMHC, Hospice & Palliative Care Supervisor.

If you have questions about Palliative or Hospice care, call today: 603-536-2232.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is a trusted, nonprofit agency proudly serving 29 towns in central and northern NH since 1967. Expert services include at-home healthcare and physical therapies (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals and also your neighbors.  In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth

~written by Anna Swanson

What You Learn About Hospice May Surprise You

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health has served countless friends and neighbors in the Lakes Region and Northern New Hampshire for over 55 years. We expertly deliver tailored care to patients and families and today we want to explain what Hospice Care is.

The peace of mind and relief you feel when Hospice comes in to help care for your loved one is almost instant. In fact, most people only wish that they had called sooner. Our wish is that more of our friends and neighbors in the community would know to turn to our professional caregivers at Pemi-Baker Hospice and Home Health in their time of need. And, it’s never too soon to call us and just ask questions! We can generally help sooner than you think.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health provides their care in your home or where you call home. You can’t ask for a better Hospice organization and that is why we are sharing the following information with you in the hopes that you can help your loved ones get the best care when in need.

Did you know?

  1. Hospice is not about giving up hope. It’s about embracing hope and living longer with exceptional care. Facing the physical and emotional challenges of a life-limiting illness is overwhelming. You owe it to yourself to seek every option. Calling hospice does not mean giving up hope – it means letting hope in, for help and support, when you need it most. Our care is designed to help patients live more fully and comfortably – with a team of caregivers who work to ease symptoms and enhance quality of life. It is choosing compassionate care and support so that you can be at home – wherever you call home.
  2. Patients and families who choose hospice care live longer and report feeling better, emotionally and physically, almost immediately. With improved quality of life, hospice patients actually live longer! A study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management showed that patients who choose hospice care live an average of 29 days longer than patients who do not have hospice care.
  3. Remarkably, there is rarely any out-of-pocket expense for hospice care. You have already paid for hospice care. It is an entitlement your tax dollars earn you. Hospice care is most often paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, or donations. Therefore, in addition to easing physical and emotional burdens, using hospice at end of life can ease financial burdens. The Medicare Hospice Benefit is available to all patients with the Medicare part A benefit.
  4. Hospice care is designed to support people for months. Far too many patients and families say—“We wish we had called sooner.” Hospice care is not simply for patients in the final days or weeks, but rather months. Patients can receive hospice care as soon as a physician predicts that life expectancy is six months or less. Anyone, including yourself, family or friends, can make a referral to hospice. In fact, we provide free in home consults to you and your family about your current or future options.
  5. Hospice care is provided in your home—wherever you call home. Our teams of caregivers come to you, making routine visits so that you can remain comfortable in your home with family, friends and familiar surroundings. This includes private homes, assisted living facilities and/or skilled nursing facilities. “I wish we had called sooner.” That’s what most families say once they have embraced the support of hospice. We understand that until you have had a first-hand experience with hospice care, you might not understand the true essence of hospice. That’s why we’re sharing this information and encouraging you to get to know more about Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health before you need them.

With over 55 years serving clients from 29 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to creating healthier communities. Expert services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and community programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask A Pemi-Baker Nurse days at your local senior centers. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals in the business because of their hearts. Neighbors serving neighbors. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth

Palliative & Hospice Care Teams Helping Those with Sarcoma Cancer

July is National Sarcoma Cancer Awareness Month

July is National Sarcoma Cancer Awareness month and Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health (PBH&HH) would like to shed some light on this cancer and how their Palliative & Hospice team can help those affected. Sarcomas are cancers that arise from the cells that hold the body together. These could be cells related to muscles, nerves, bones, fat, tendons, cartilage, or other forms of ‘connective tissues.’ There are hundreds of different kinds of sarcomas, which come from different kinds of cells.

According to the Sarcoma Foundation of America, sarcoma accounts for 1% of adult cancers diagnosed in the United States and 15%-20% of childhood cancers. Every cancer treatment can cause side effects or changes to your body and how you feel. For many reasons, people do not experience the same side effects even when they are given the same treatment for the same type of cancer. This can make it hard to predict how you will feel during treatment.

As you prepare to start cancer treatment, it is normal to fear treatment-related side effects. It may help to know that your health care team will work to prevent and relieve side effects. Doctors call this part of cancer treatment “palliative care” or “supportive care.” It is an important part of your treatment plan, regardless of your age or the stage of disease. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home health offers free consultations to explain the benefits of having a Palliative Care team on your side. This can be done over the phone or in person.

Coping with physical side effects

Talk with your Pemi-Baker Palliative health care team regularly about how you are feeling. If they know how you are feeling, they can find ways to relieve or manage your side effects to help you feel more comfortable and potentially keep any side effects from worsening.

Sometimes, physical side effects can last after treatment ends. Doctors call these long-term side effects. They call side effects that occur months or years after treatment, late effects. Treating long-term side effects and late effects is an important part of survivorship care.

Hospice care for cancer patients is a special kind of care that provides comfort, support, and dignity at the end of life, typically when you or your loved one’s life expectancy is six months or less. Hospice cares for the whole person, addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.

Coping with emotional and social effects

You can have emotional and social effects after a cancer diagnosis. This may include dealing with difficult emotions, such as sadness, anxiety, or anger, or managing your stress level. Sometimes, people find it difficult to express how they feel to their loved ones. Some have found that talking to PBH&HH’s social workers or chaplain can help them develop more effective ways of coping and talking about cancer.

Caring for a loved one with cancer

Family members and friends often play an important role in taking care of a person with sarcoma. This is called being a caregiver. Caregivers can provide physical, practical, and emotional support to the patient, even if they live far away.

Caregivers may have a range of responsibilities on a daily or as-needed basis, including:

  • Providing support and encouragement
  • Talking with the health care team
  • Giving medications
  • Helping manage symptoms and side effects
  • Coordinating medical appointments
  • Providing a ride to and from appointments
  • Assisting with meals
  • Helping with household chores
  • Handling insurance and billing issues

It is important to care for yourself as well as your loved one with cancer. Caregiver burnout is very common but PBH&HH can help through their free ‘Caregiver conversation, education & support group’ held the first Wednesday of every month from 10am-11:30am. You can join the support group in person at their facility on Boulder Point Drive or by Zoom. Pre-registration is required through Guy Tillson, Chaplain at gtillson@pbhha.org or by calling 603-536-2232. We hope you will join us!

With over 55 years of experience, serving clients from 29 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is committed to creating healthier communities. Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, and Community Programs including: American Red Cross CPR/AED/FA, Caregiver Support Groups, Grief and Bereavement Support Groups and Ask-A-Pemi-Baker Nurse senior center programs. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals in the business because of their hearts. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

Pemi-Baker is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @pemibakerhospicehomehealth

 

6th Annual Battle of the Sexes Tennis Tournament Scheduled for September 19th

 

Pemi-Baker Community Health (PBCH) is excited to announce that the Waterville Valley charity event, “Battle of the Sexes Tennis Tournament” will be held on the outdoor, clay courts on Sunday, September 19th 2021. Doubles men’s teams will compete against doubles women’s teams in hour long battles on the court as well as competition for overall moneys raised for PBCH’s Palliative & Hospice Care.

The generosity of our players, sponsors, and donors has raised $30,000 over the past six years for PBCH and hopes are high for bragging rights this year. You can join in the fun by registering your doubles team; players are participating from all over the state. In past years, Pirates, Roaring Twenties Flappers, Cowboys and Pink Diva costumes have added to the fun and given players point advantages. Players can also ‘buy’ mulligans / serves during play which of course adds to the proceeds and fun.

There are many other ways to get involved if you don’t want to battle it out on the tennis court. An auction site has been set up to buy raffle tickets for wine baskets, photography/artwork and more. You can also help your favorite team win the ‘Moneys Raised’ competition by donating on the auction site towards your favorite team: ‘Men’ or ‘Women’. www.32auctions.com/Battle2021

If you would rather be a spectator watching the shenanigans and banter, we encourage you to join us courtside on the 19th. Teams will be competing from 2-5pm and prizes will be given out at the after-party at the Wild Coyote Grill located in the White Mountain Athletic Club. Raffle tickets can also be bought at Pemi-Baker Community Health, courtside during the competitions and at the after-party. Many thanks to our sponsors Waterville Valley Realty and Roper Real Estate!

For more information about how you can get involved, please look on our events page.

With over 50 years of experience, serving clients from 28 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker Community Health is committed to creating healthier communities. Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, on-site physical and occupational therapy and aquatic therapy in their 90-degree therapy pool. Providing compassionate care with experienced staff who are trained, certified professionals in the business because of their hearts. In your time of need, we’re right where you need us.

PBCH is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Plymouth, NH. To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org  Like our Facebook Page: @PBCH4

~written by Anna Swanson

Chaplains and the Role of Spiritual Care in Healthcare

In celebration of National Pastoral/Spiritual Care Week, Pemi-Baker Community Health would like to acknowledge and thank Guy Tillson, MDiv, MA for being our Hospice Chaplain, an integral part of our hospice team. This year’s theme is ‘Collaborative Health Care: Chaplains Complete the Picture.’  By collaborating to provide holistic interdisciplinary care, our patients and families directly benefit from his presence and spiritual care services.

What a Home Care Chaplain Does A home care chaplain is a professionally trained clergy member who supports patients and staff with spiritual and religious concerns. He or she is clinically trained to help navigate the healthcare experience. Chaplains have similar skill sets to social workers, but are specially trained to support belief systems across faiths and cultures. In order to better meet the needs of patients, chaplains receive more than 1,600 hours of training focused specifically in healthcare settings.

Chaplains act not only as spiritual counselors, but as advocates for patients and staff. Dedicated chaplains influence better decisions about care, improve clinical outcomes, and enhance staff morale. The trust they establish with patients transfers to other members of the care team, leading to better care and better outcomes.

Expert guidance during serious illness (Palliative Care) A serious illness in your family includes coping with symptoms, stress and uncertainty. The experienced team from PBCH Palliative Care provides guidance and support focused on relieving physical, emotional and spiritual suffering of the patient as well as their entire family – so patients and families can enjoy life to the fullest despite the illness.

Expert guidance during life’s final months (Hospice Care) The final months of life can be more fulfilling if you or a loved one can focus on goals and wishes. The experienced team from PBCH Hospice Care will guide you with receiving expert medical care, as well as emotional and spiritual support.

Because chaplains are unbiased and part of the care team, they are valuable in providing a safe harbor and bridging difficult conversations. Guy Tillson, Chaplain at Pemi-Baker Community Health says, “Our most fundamental human condition is when we come face-to-face with our own mortality. As chaplains, we walk into some dark places and help bring in light.”

If you have more questions about Palliative Care, Hospice Care or what a home health Chaplain can do for you and your family, please call Pemi-Baker Community Health for more information today.

~Anna Swanson

The Differences Between Palliative Care and Hospice Care Can be Confusing

Many people have heard of hospice care but they mistakenly think that it’s just a way to help cancer patients be more comfortable at the end of their lives. Fewer people have heard of palliative care, and they may have no idea what it is. The truth is that hospice and palliative care are related but used for different reasons at different times, and everyone should be well-versed in what they offer. PBCH can help clarify some points of confusion.

What is palliative care?  Palliative (pronounced pal-lee-uh-tiv) care is supportive care. It is specialized medical attention, provided by a specially trained, interdisciplinary team of medical experts to help people who have serious, often painful illnesses. The care covers management of physical and emotional pain, as well as stress relief and feelings of helplessness. The palliative care team works to provide quality of life for the patient as well as the patient’s family.

Where is palliative care provided?  Since palliative care can be offered alongside curative treatments such as chemotherapy, the services are available in a hospital setting, a clinic, a care facility or in the comfort of your own home.

Who is on the palliative care team?  A typical team would include a doctor trained in palliative care and, often, board-certified in Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Additionally, the team generally includes a palliative care nurse, a social worker, a chaplain or someone who can help with spiritual support if the patient requests it, plus a patient navigator or someone who can coordinate the process. PBCH and NANA work collaboratively with MidState Health Center’s Provider: Dr. Diane Arsenault, MD, FAAFP, HPM, HMDC.

When does palliative care start and who qualifies?  Palliative care can be provided as soon as a diagnosis is made and any time throughout an illness. It’s probably best known for cancer patients, but people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, or other illnesses that cause chronic pain or discomfort can also qualify. The focus of palliative care is to provide relief from the symptoms of the disease and even the treatment side effects, as well as help with emotional and spiritual issues. Palliative care is not curative but can be used alongside curative methods such as chemotherapy.

So, what is hospice care?  Hospice care is also supportive comfort care. The focus is to provide physical, emotional, and spiritual comfort to people who are in a terminal condition, as well as for the family. The main difference with palliative care is that with hospice care, curative treatment is stopped. Through hospice, people who choose to end treatment that has perhaps stopped being helpful and often adds pain to their existence, can then navigate the end of their lives in a pain-free, dignified manner.

What hospice is not– Many people, including some doctors, will say, “Well, there’s nothing we can do now so you may as well go on hospice care.” That is misguided thinking. Hospice care is not giving up. Hospice is an active choice to provide people who have been diagnosed as terminal with a pain-free life for the time that they have left. They can enjoy family and friends in a setting of their choice. When the time comes, patients die naturally, with dignity, and with loved ones by their side if they choose.

Don’t wait too long to go on hospice– Many people actually improve once they are on hospice care because of the support they receive from the hospice team. That is why hospice workers say the most frequent comment they hear is, “We wish we hadn’t waited so long.” The misconception that going on hospice means giving up is the reason why so many families wait until the last weeks of a patient’s life to obtain help when they could have had several months of care.

People often live longer when receiving supportive comfort care. Researchers have found that people diagnosed with cancer who receive palliative and hospice care often live longer. Most choose to spend more time with family and friends. Some travel. Many plan the funeral or life celebration that matches their specific wishes. Palliative and hospice care allow each person to live the best life possible until their health takes them close to the end of their lives. When that time comes, people die comfortably and with dignity.

~Anna Swanson         

PBCH & Mid-State Health Welcome Barbara Greenwell, ACHPN

Mid-State Health and Pemi-Baker Community Health have collaborated to create an innovative joint position to best serve patients in the Plymouth community. “We are excited to welcome back Barbara Greenwell, APRN, ACHPN, to our practice. Barbara was a member of our team back in 2013-2014 when she practiced as an Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She has returned to us with a wealth of knowledge and experience as Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner. Barbara’s primary role will be to work closely with the Pemi-Baker Community Health team to build their Palliative Care Program,” reports Bob MacLeod, the CEO of Mid-State Health. 

Palliative care is a medical specialty designed to improve the health and quality of life for people with progressive illnesses.  As an Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse, Barbara will be working with the PBCH team to prevent and treat patient’s symptoms and side effects, as early as possible. Her twenty years of nursing experience in acute care and psychiatric nursing will benefit the patient’s psychological, social, and spiritual concerns as well. By offering face to face patient assessments in the office and in their homes, the hope is to prevent suffering and crisis that often result in hospitalizations.

“Palliative care is about improving the quality of someone’s life even when the disease cannot be cured. We may not be able to cure the disease but we can improve the journey by improving the symptoms so people can truly live,” said Barbara Greenwell.

Pemi-Baker Community Health has seen the need for a larger palliative care program in Grafton County for some time. Barbara Greenwell will be joining Dr. Diane Arsenault, MD, Board-certified Palliative Care Physician along with the nurses and social workers on their team.  “As we work collaboratively with Mid-State Health Center, Speare Memorial Hospital, and Newfound Area Nursing Association; having an APRN who is passionate and who is certified in both Palliative Care and Hospice, will greatly benefit our communities,” said Chandra Engelbert, CEO of Pemi-Baker Community Health.

With 52 years of experience, serving over 1000 clients from 18 towns in central and northern New Hampshire, Pemi-Baker community Health is the home care provider of choice for Grafton County.  Services include at-home healthcare (VNA), hospice and palliative care, on-site physical and occupational therapy and fitness memberships including a fitness gym and fitness classes in our 90-degree therapy pool. PBCH is located at 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 3, Plymouth, NH.  To contact us please call: 603-536-2232 or email: info@pbhha.org   Visit our website: www.pbhha.org  and like our Facebook Page: @PBCH4

Mid-State Health, ‘Where your care comes together.’  A health center on the leading edge of innovative, high-quality, patient-centered primary care. Two convenient locations:  Plymouth Office 101 Boulder Point Drive, Suite 1, Plymouth, NH  03264 (603-536-4000) and Bristol Office 100 Robie Road, Bristol, NH 03222 (603-744-6200), Visit our website: www.midstatehealth.org.

~Anna Swanson

The Rewards of Being a Hospice Volunteer

While I was familiar with Hospice for many years, I only have been a hospice volunteer with Pemi Baker Hospice and Home Health (PBHHH) since October 2021.  When I retired, I began searching for volunteer work that would allow me to give back to my community.  A newsletter from PBHHH arrived in my email announcing training for hospice volunteers.  My family had experienced the need for hospice twice, once in Ohio and again in Florida.  The relief my family and I felt when the hospice volunteers arrived was beyond measure.  I want to bring the same kind of assistance to others.  PBHHH given me that opportunity by providing professional training with knowledgeable nurses, doctors, social workers and other health care professionals.  Their guidance has enabled me to meet the challenges of being s hospice volunteer, and I am very glad that I did it.

Connie C.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2022-06-27T12:20:25-04:00

Connie C.

While I was familiar with Hospice for many years, I only have been a hospice volunteer with Pemi Baker Hospice and Home Health (PBHHH) since October 2021.  When I retired, I began searching for volunteer work that would allow me to give back to my community.  A newsletter from PBHHH arrived in my email announcing training for hospice volunteers.  My family had experienced the need for hospice twice, once in Ohio and again in Florida.  The relief my family and I felt when the hospice volunteers arrived was beyond measure.  I want to bring the same kind of assistance to others.  PBHHH given me that opportunity by providing professional training with knowledgeable nurses, doctors, social workers and other health care professionals.  Their guidance has enabled me to meet the challenges of being s hospice volunteer, and I am very glad that I did it.

You give of yourselves day & night without end!

To the Pemi-Baker Hospice Team--Words really can't express my feelings-

Your help during one of the most difficult times of my life is SO appreciated.  I'm so grateful that because of you, Doug was able to get his wish not to spend the last of his days in a hospital, but at home with those of us who loved him.

And to be constantly reassured that if I needed anything you would be there-oh my gosh-ANYTIME!  Well, you people need to know how much you are appreciated.  You give of yourselves day & night without end!  God Bless you and thank you!

Pam O.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-06-11T07:31:14-04:00

Pam O.

To the Pemi-Baker Hospice Team--Words really can't express my feelings- Your help during one of the most difficult times of my life is SO appreciated.  I'm so grateful that because of you, Doug was able to get his wish not to spend the last of his days in a hospital, but at home with those of us who loved him. And to be constantly reassured that if I needed anything you would be there-oh my gosh-ANYTIME!  Well, you people need to know how much you are appreciated.  You give of yourselves day & night without end!  God Bless you and thank you!

“My home physical therapy was fantastic.”

Pemi-Baker provided very good home therapy. All their therapists were pleasant, helpful in offering suggestions for better functioning after surgery, and practiced good health protocols. They were also very prompt in showing up for scheduled appointments.

Elizabeth B.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2019-11-07T12:26:12-05:00

Elizabeth B.

Pemi-Baker provided very good home therapy. All their therapists were pleasant, helpful in offering suggestions for better functioning after surgery, and practiced good health protocols. They were also very prompt in showing up for scheduled appointments.

“Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know.”

Thank you to everyone who played a role in taking care of my mother and giving her the freedom of remaining home while suffering from dementia. Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know. A special thanks goes to Macayla and Colleen, who visited her on a regular basis, and to Lauren who was helpful in connecting us with state services.

Terry W.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T12:43:19-05:00

Terry W.

Thank you to everyone who played a role in taking care of my mother and giving her the freedom of remaining home while suffering from dementia. Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know. A special thanks goes to Macayla and Colleen, who visited her on a regular basis, and to Lauren who was helpful in connecting us with state services.

“Everyone is so understanding supportive and kind.”

From the director to the nurses to the health care workers.  So cheerful, helpful and accommodating.  This is our second time receiving assistance from Pemi-Baker and we are very lucky to have found this amazing group!  Thank you for your excellent care and compassion.

Leila L.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T13:19:24-05:00

Leila L.

From the director to the nurses to the health care workers.  So cheerful, helpful and accommodating.  This is our second time receiving assistance from Pemi-Baker and we are very lucky to have found this amazing group!  Thank you for your excellent care and compassion.

“Pemi-Baker Hospice services provided kind, professional, competent services every step of the way-and even vaccinated us all for Covid/19!””

Our primary nurse, Fred, was outstanding, and others who filled in (Cathy, Penny, Colleen) were wonderful and a credit to your organization. Fred, you were amazing, not only for mom but for my husband and I as well. I will forever be grateful for your support, wisdom, humor and kindness, all along the end of life journey for mom. I am so deeply thankful that circumstances conspired such that mom was able to die at home, and your role made that time as seamless as it could be made.

Paula W.

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-01-17T12:31:13-05:00

Paula W.

Our primary nurse, Fred, was outstanding, and others who filled in (Cathy, Penny, Colleen) were wonderful and a credit to your organization. Fred, you were amazing, not only for mom but for my husband and I as well. I will forever be grateful for your support, wisdom, humor and kindness, all along the end of life journey for mom. I am so deeply thankful that circumstances conspired such that mom was able to die at home, and your role made that time as seamless as it could be made.

Your courage during Covid-19 does not go unnoticed

Hello. We just wanted to take a moment and let you know how much we truly appreciate all that you do for us in these trying times. You're commitment to the health of our community is a special thing, and we know that you are working under stressful conditions due to the Covid 19 crisis. We realize that in order for you to treat those who may be ill, you are putting you're own lives and even you're own families lives in danger, and that is truly a courageous and honorable thing to do. We want you to know that it does not go unnoticed. Thank you all for all that you do!

Bryan and Renee C., and our mom Joan

Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health
2020-06-11T06:27:43-04:00

Bryan and Renee C., and our mom Joan

Hello. We just wanted to take a moment and let you know how much we truly appreciate all that you do for us in these trying times. You're commitment to the health of our community is a special thing, and we know that you are working under stressful conditions due to the Covid 19 crisis. We realize that in order for you to treat those who may be ill, you are putting you're own lives and even you're own families lives in danger, and that is truly a courageous and honorable thing to do. We want you to know that it does not go unnoticed. Thank you all for all that you do!
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