In our recent newspaper column, Al, a patient receiving hospice care at home, is admitted to the Merrimack Valley Hospice House after his congestive heart failure symptoms become too difficult to manage at home.
So what is a hospice house?
A hospice house is a “home-like” residence for patients who, for a variety of reasons, can no longer receive hospice care at home. Unlike a hospital or nursing home, a hospice house is designed with all the comfortable features of a private home, with sitting rooms, kitchens, dining areas, and other common areas for patients, family and loved ones.
Merrimack Valley Hospice House, located in Haverhill, MA, is an in-patient facility. That means that most patients admitted to our House have pain or other symptoms that require an acute level of medical care not available at home. With warm colors, and a comfortable and serene atmosphere, Merrimack Valley Hospice House is designed to make patients, and their family and loved ones, feel welcomed and relaxed. The very best medical experts ensure that every patient receives the care and support they need as they near the end-of-life. And, bereavement support and counseling is offered to families and loved ones.
Currently the Hospice House has 14 private suites. However, construction is currently underway to expand our House by 7 additional suites to ensure we can meet the needs of all patients and families who rely on us for quality end-of-life care.