Cuidado Compasivo: Bridging the Gap to Help Latino Families at the End of Life
Chicago, Illinois (PRWEB) October 08, 2013 -- Passages Hospice has expanded its program to reach Latinos needing end of life care in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month. The program, called Cuidado Compasivo para la Familia ("Compassionate Family Care"), is available in Illinois, Indiana and Missouri.
"Latinos are a tight-knit community," said Elizabeth De la Paz, a Latino Community Outreach Specialist for Passages. "I'm here as a resource for my culture."
Latinos account for just 5.7% of all hospice patients in the United States, although they make up 17% of the country's population. Studies suggest that the dramatic difference in the numbers is due to misunderstandings about what hospice care is, including that hospice staff "take over" care from the family or that hospice means families are giving up on their loved one.
Cuidado Compasivo uses a range of educational materials, bilingual staff and community events to address these concerns and build relationships with local healthcare organizations. The program has been successful in doubling the number of Latino patients who have benefited from Passages Hospice care over the last few years, putting Passages Hospice well above the national average for Latino patients.
"Every family that finds relief with hospice care makes a difference," said Michael Gillman, Passages Hospice Administrator. "We're committed to reaching every patient and family in need."
Cuidado Compasivo is available in any community that Passages Hospice serves, and can be requested by calling 888-741-8985. For more information, visit Passages Hospice online at http://www.passageshospice.com.
Kaitlyn Henderson, Passages Hospice, http://www.passageshospice.com, 630-940-9863, [email protected]
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