AseraCare Hospice Care, an Amedisys Company

AseraCare Hospice Care, an Amedisys company, provides hospice care in Johnstown, Pennsylvania for patients with terminal illnesses. Rather than pursuing curative treatment, the service focuses on pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, and assistance for families and caregivers. Hospice care is available 24/7, and the care team works with patients and primary caregivers to develop personalized plans based on individual needs and goals.

The hospice team includes physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, bereavement counselors, hospice aides, and trained volunteers. Nursing care involves regular visits to assess patient comfort, administer medications, and coordinate with the broader care team. Hospice aides provide at-home help with basic self-care and hygiene needs. Medications, equipment, and supplies related to the terminal illness are covered as part of the care plan, with prescriptions used to ensure pain and symptom management while maintaining the patient's comfort and alertness.

Support extends beyond the patient to family members and caregivers. Social workers provide emotional support and counseling to help with grief and end-of-life planning. Chaplains offer spiritual care tailored to different faith traditions and beliefs. Volunteers provide companionship and practical assistance such as transportation. After a loved one's death, families can access up to one year of bereavement support and guidance from trained counselors, with both virtual and in-person bereavement support groups available.

AseraCare offers specialized hospice services for patients with dementia, focusing on pain management and creating safe, relaxed environments as the disease progresses. The program also addresses end-stage heart failure by managing symptoms, reducing hospitalizations, and providing education and support. The organization participates in the We Honor Veterans program to address veterans' unique end-of-life care needs.

Hospice costs are typically 100% covered by Medicare Part A, Medicaid in most states, and many private or managed care insurance plans for eligible patients. The hospice care team determines the frequency and type of services needed, with visits typically increasing as the patient's condition progresses.