Carlsbad CA– After entering into an exclusive agreement earlier this year to discuss a possible affiliation of their organizations’ hospice programs, Hospice of the North Coast (HNC) and Scripps Health have decided to remain separate, independent, but collaborative entities.
In making this decision, HNC has determined to continue existing as the compact, comprehensive community hospice provider that has served the people of North County for 34 years. HNC will continue to provide its broad array of programs to the terminally ill, their families, the bereaved and the community, confirms HNC Acting Executive Director Sharon Lutz. She notes, “We take pride in combining sophisticated clinical responses, pain management modalities and integrated therapies with old-fashioned hospice care and caring that supports body, mind and spirit.”
According to Scripps Health President/CEO Chris Van Gorder, the two organizations will work with each other and with other regional nonprofit hospice providers to address how best to meet challenges and to explore the establishment of best practices. He states, “HNC is a high-quality organization with a dedicated board and staff whose core values are similar to ours. We are pleased to collaborate with HNC and look forward to exploring more opportunities to work together.”
Already in place is a contract between HNC and Scripps Hospice that allows acceptance of terminally ill Scripps patients at HNC’s six-suite, Pacifica House residential facility in Carlsbad.
HNC Board President Bobbie Hoder says, “HNC and Scripps share the goal of collaborating closely to serve our respective patients and the entire region. While we remain separate entities, we are pleased to have identified ways we can work together to address ongoing challenges in the health care environment as related to hospice care.”
About Hospice of the North Coast
Nonprofit Hospice of the North Coast was established in 1980 to fill the need for comprehensive, compassionate hospice care in North County San Diego. Since its inception, it has grown in services, staff and clients. It currently provides a full spectrum of programs to terminally ill clients and their families, including anticipatory and post-death bereavement support, as well as a Pathways Program for those with a declining chronic disease. To fulfill its goal of maintaining dignity, comfort and highest quality of life for those it serves, regardless of ability to pay, HNC hosts fundraising events, operates a resale shop and maintains a cadre of volunteers. HNC’s Pacifica House in-patient residence in Carlsbad is the first such freestanding facility in North County.