Services for All Aspects of Death
As a nonprofit organization, we offer a wide range of programs and services thanks to the generous support of our community. Learn more about giving here.
Yvonne, Palliative Medicine patient with Hospice of the Piedmont
Hospice Care
Since 1980, we’ve been proud to offer compassionate, expert hospice care to our community. Hospice is a type of medical care that focuses on comfort so that the final months of a person’s life can be spent focusing on what really matters, rather than enduring painful, often ineffective medical treatments. Hospice care is covered by Medicare, and Hospice of the Piedmont is committed to providing quality care to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Less than 0.5% of our patients ever receive a bill from us.
Learn more about what hospice care offers and find out if it’s right for you or your loved one.
Enjoy the positive effects of music through our Music by the Bedside and Front Porch Music programs. Our partner musicians bring soothing live music to patients and their loved ones, wherever they are.
Let certified art therapists guide you through creative expression with Art by the Bedside. This program allows patients with life-limiting illnesses to express themselves creatively with a variety of artistic tools. Enjoy the healing benefits of art wherever you’re most comfortable—our passionate volunteers will come to you.
Our volunteer-led pet therapy program provides patients with an opportunity to interact with service dogs. These animals meet patients where they are, in nursing homes, private residences, or assisted living facilities. Dog-loving patients find great joy and comfort in spending time with these furry friends.
Many patients and caregivers find solace in physical human connection. Our massage and Reiki therapy providers bring comfort through massages that are catered to your specific preferences—including full-body massage, massage on the shoulders and neck, and touch-free Reiki sessions that reduce stress and promote healing. This service isn’t just for patients—caregivers are also welcome to enjoy the relaxing benefits of massage therapy.
Get holistic support on your end-of-life journey from a dedicated guide. A Death Doula is inspired by the role of a midwife in the birthing process. This service helps patients and families create an empowered, intentional plan for the final months of life and provides a calming, positive presence.
Our 11th Hour Vigil Program was built around the vision that no one should have to die on their own. Our volunteers accompany patients who would otherwise be alone during their final hours, or those whose families need additional support. For example, if family members are on their way to the patient’s bedside, an 11th Hour volunteer will sit with the patient until they arrive. This program provides patients with a loving and accepting presence at the very end.
Palliative medicine
Our Palliative Medicine program can provide relief from pain and other challenges associated with advanced illness. Palliative Medicine is a specialized type of medical care that focuses on improving comfort and quality of life while a patient undergoes treatment for an advanced illness. You don’t need to stop curative treatment to take advantage of all that our Palliative Medicine program can offer.
- A physician or nurse practitioner will make an in-person visit to help with navigating treatment options, support advance care planning, and provide referrals to community resources that will benefit quality of life.
- Patients can continue to pursue curative treatment while receiving this care.
- Patients may receive care from other practitioners, with consultation from additional team members or community resources, as needed, in coordination with the patient’s other healthcare providers.
- Most individuals receive care on an intermittent basis that increases over time as their disease progresses.
Patients who want to continue to live independently—receiving services wherever they call home, instead of in a hospital setting—are the best fit for this care program. Palliative Medicine services are covered through Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurers.
Grief and Healing
Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming and isolating experience. We’re here to provide grief support, even if your loved one hasn’t received care from Hospice of Piedmont.
Kids' Grief and Healing
We provide non-medical support for children and teens who’ve lost loved ones. Through our Journeys camps, teen groups, and creative expression programs, we help young people (4-18) forge connections with others and develop coping skills.
Education
Hospice of the Piedmont provides education to increase awareness and understanding of end-of-life care. We are one of the only hospice organizations in Virginia certified to provide Continuing Education credits to facility and hospital staff.
Inpatient Care Sites
Our Acute Care Center provides short-term care for patients with acute symptoms that are better managed in a hospital environment. To learn more, watch this virtual tour.
Hospice House serves as a home-away-from-home for patients who require around-the-clock support. To learn more, watch this virtual tour.
Veterans’ Services
Hospice of the Piedmont supports the “We Honor Veterans” program, providing patients who’ve served with specialized care, education, and advocacy.