Compassus

Compassus in Cedar Falls, Iowa provides compassionate hospice care 24/7, with the physical office open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The program serves 12 counties throughout northeast Iowa, including Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Butler, Chickasaw, Clayton, Delaware, Fayette, Floyd, Franklin, Grundy, Hardin, Marshall, and Tama counties.

Hospice care at Compassus aims to reduce suffering and promote comfort at the end of life. Pain and other symptoms are managed around the clock, with the care team focusing on spiritual and emotional health alongside physical care. The program is Medicare-approved and has been awarded Community Health Accreditation Partner accreditation under the Hospice Standards of Excellence.

The care team provides nursing services with emphasis on symptom management, practical assistance, and emotional support. Care is delivered wherever patients call home, in hospitals, nursing facilities, or personal residences. Services include short-term inpatient respite care for family caregivers and ongoing grief counseling for patients, families, and friends. Nursing services, medications, supplies, and equipment are covered for those with a diagnosis requiring hospice care.

Family support is central to the program's approach. Compassus extends care to families with practical and emotional support throughout the hospice journey, recognizing that caring for a loved one at home can be challenging. The program aims to help families make the most of their time together.

Volunteers play a significant role in the hospice program, touching the lives of patients and families through reading, meal preparation, housekeeping assistance, and other meaningful gestures. All volunteers receive free training at the local office.