New hospice unit for patients and families
For years , Forbes has provided highly skilled hospice care to people in the final stages of an incurable illness . Now , the hospital is renovating an area of its fourth floor to give patients and their families the comfort of a serene place .
“ We want to match our staff ’ s talents and compassion with a calm and warm environment ,” said Mark Rubino , MD , president of Forbes Hospital . “ This new hospice space will allow us to give patients specialized care and give their families space and privacy so everyone can hopefully feel peaceful .”
The Forbes Foundation donated the majority of funds for the unit , which will have four beds , a family lounge , and grief support and education . The team provides round-the-clock medical care for pain relief and symptom management .
“ It ’ s a place to focus on the patient rather than the illness ,” Dr . Rubino said .
Getting support for a serious illness
She always enjoyed talking with her patients and hearing their stories , so it was a natural progression for Anna Finley , MD , to lead Supportive Care and Palliative Medicine at Forbes .
“ Our specialty gives us the chance to really spend quality time with patients and families , helping them to feel better , improve function , and enjoy quality time with their family and friends ,” Dr . Finley said .
Supportive care isn ’ t just for patients who need hospice care at the end of their lives . It ’ s provided to patients inside and outside of Forbes Hospital , at any stage of a serious or chronic illness . Those include cancer , heart , liver , and lung diseases , kidney failure , dementia , and stroke .
The team includes Dr . Finley , three nurse practitioners , a social worker , a nurse navigator , and a chaplain . They help patients manage symptoms , such as pain , nausea , sleep issues , anxiety , and depression . And they also provide a great deal of support to patients ’ families .
To talk with someone about Supportive Care , call 412-578-6808 .
ANNA FINLEY , MD DIRECTOR , FORBES SUPPORTIVE CARE AND PALLIATIVE MEDICINE
FOR APPOINTMENTS OR MORE INFORMATION , CALL ( 412 ) DOCTORS OR VISIT ahn . org / forbes .