Providing flexible, patient-centered care for those living with a serious illness for more than 40 years, our hospice and palliative services are designed to help patients get the most out of life. Led by doctors and supported by specially-trained nurse practitioners, nurses, nursing assistants, social workers and spiritual counselors, we provide physical, emotional and spiritual support to enhance the lives of our patients and their caregivers.

If you are receiving palliative medicine services you may receive care from Nurse Practitioners Kelly Stockton-Drum, NP-C, Vida Owusu, NP-C and Megan Frasure, AGNP-C. If you are a hospice patient, a health care team will be assigned to assist you and your loved ones.

Established in the early 1960s, palliative care is a specialized service that helps patients improve their quality of life whether they are seeking aggressive, curative treatments or pain and symptom relief. Hospice care usually focuses solely on comfort care and begins when a patient is thought to be in the last six months of life.

Patients with serious illnesses such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure (CHF), dementia and more may be eligible for hospice and palliative care, which can help to manage the symptoms associated with chronic health conditions.

Call Carolina Caring at 828.466.0466 or ask your doctor or healthcare provider if hospice or palliative care may be right for you. Since our services can be provided in almost any setting, including hospitals, assisted living centers, skilled nursing facilities, our outpatient Palliative Medicine Clinic - Gastonia or even in your home, receiving care is convenient and comfortable.

Costs related to hospice and palliative care are often covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance. Check with your insurer to learn more about specific hospice and palliative care benefits that may be a part of your policy.