The impact of the community on the dying process at Hospice of Frederick County.

Abstract

Hospice of Frederick County is in the very early phases of reaching out beyond the health care system into the community in order to help individuals and families cope with the death of a loved one. By listening to the stories that people have shared with staff and volunteers, Hospice of Frederick County has identified the need for hospice programs that deal with the workplace, the media, recreation, churches, schools, clubs, and all other areas of community life. The response from the community thus far has indicated their approval. However, the community programs depend on volunteers to become operational. A beginning has been made, and time will tell if this volunteer-intensive, community-wide program is right for this community.