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Mercy Hospice
A History of Compassionate Care
Since 1984, Mercy Hospice has served the community of Northeastern Pennsylvania, expressing the deep respect for human life that defines the hospice ethic. We believe that – even at life’s end – our healthcare professionals and volunteer staff can enhance a patient’s quality of life and provide support to loved ones in a manner that respects and cherishes the dignity and uniqueness of each individual. This is an important part of the healing ministry and compassionate care that is the hallmark of Mercy Hospice and Mercy Health Partners in general.
All Faiths Welcome
Our faith encourages us to care for others by recognizing and honoring their individual beliefs and wishes. That’s why Mercy Hospice offers its services to any person, regardless of race, religion or creed.
Physical Comfort and Support During a Life-Limiting Illness
Our hospice services offer comfort-oriented, rather than curative treatment, to people with a variety of end-stage diseases. Under the direction of a physician, teamed with our skilled nursing staff and health aides, and in collaboration with one of the few Palliative Care physicians in the region, Mercy Hospice uses sophisticated methods of pain and symptom management. This enables our patients to remain as alert and pain-free as they desire, reassured by the support of their loved ones.
Additional Comfort for the Mind and Spirit
At Mercy, we believe that emotional and spiritual pain is just as significant as physical pain. To address these concerns, our hospice team includes our chaplain, social worker, bereavement counselor and volunteer staff, who offer their support, time and skills to both the patient and their family. In addition, we provide complementary therapies, including, but not limited to, music and pet therapy.
When is it Time for Hospice Care?
At any time during a life-limiting illness, it’s appropriate to discuss all of a patient’s care options, including hospice. The earlier Mercy Hospice becomes involved, the better able we are to affirm the dignity of life by compassionately caring for our patients and their family and friends.
Who Should Make the Decision?
When possible, the decision to receive hospice services belongs to the patient. Anyone, however, may refer a patient to Mercy Hospice, including:
• Patient’s physician or nurse
• Social worker
• Clergy
• Family member
• Friend
What Services Does Mercy Hospice Provide?
Our dedicated team of specialists extends the following hospice services to our patients and their caregivers:
• Pain and symptom management
• All medication related to the terminal illness
• Nursing care and home visits
• Home health aide services
• Inpatient hospice care
• 24-hour, seven-days-a-week on-call service
• Continuous home care (for brief crisis periods)
• Physical, occupational and speech therapy
• Nutrition counseling
• Volunteer companion services (including complementary therapies like pet therapy)
• Pastoral care support
• Social work services with family counseling
• Grief support for families and caregivers
Where Will My Loved One Be Cared For?
During a terminal illness, we understand that individuals prefer to be surrounded by family, friends and a familiar environment. That’s why our services are available in the patient’s home, nursing home or personal care home.
We also recognize there may come a time for patients to be cared for in our inpatient unit. Our recently remodeled center provides our comprehensive hospice services in a comfortable, home-like setting. Services include:
• Respite Care (short-term) – offers patients a place for compassionate care when a caregiver is ill, away or simply needs a break
• General Inpatient Care – available for patients who need an extra level of support for acute symptoms or need stabilizing care before returning home
• Routine/Residential Care – provides care for patients with stable acute symptoms who cannot be managed at home
Are Hospice Services Covered By Insurance?
Hospice coverage is widely available. Medicare and Medicaid provide coverage in Pennsylvania, as do many private health insurance policies. Since individual policies vary, families should check with their insurance provider to verify coverage. Additionally, our social worker may be able to offer other suggestions in obtaining assistance.
Mercy also assists, when possible, with expenses for families with financial challenges by using money raised from the community or from memorial or foundation gifts.
Mercy Hospice Certifications
At Mercy Hospice, our certifications mean that we meet the highest standards of excellence for home and community based healthcare.
• Certified by Medicare
• Licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
• Member of the Pennsylvania Hospice Network (PHN)
• Member of National Hospice Organization (NHO)
• Accredited by the Joint Commission of Health Care Organizations (JCAHO).
Mercy Hospice
746 Jefferson Avenue
Scranton, PA 18510
Phone: 570-961-0725
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