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Embracing the seasons of life, Diakon Hospice Saint John provides
support and comfort-both physical and emotional-for patients and their
families in eastern Pennsylvania during the final stages of a terminal
illness. At Diakon Hospice Saint John, we celebrate life and offer compassionate
care to patients, regardless of their age, when medical science can
no longer enhance the quality of life. Entering the final season of
their lives, hospice patients can remain at home or at their care
facility, peacefully surrounded by family and friends.
It is not by choice that patients and their families find themselves searching for hospice
care-but it is their choice as to which hospice provider provides that care. When faced with this
ever-important decision of who will be responsible for end-of-life support and nurturing, Diakon Hospice
Saint John wants to help. As a mission-driven, faith-based program, Diakon Hospice Saint John strives to
bring solace, during this critical time, to patients and their families.
Hospice care begins with a physician-approved referral. While the referral may come from anyone,
including the patient's physician, clergy, family, or friends, it must include the consent of the
patient's attending physician. When permission is obtained, the Hospice Team, composed of skilled
professional staff members and volunteers, meets with the attending physician to discuss the
patient's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
- Patient and his or her family
- Medical director
- Skilled professional nurses
- Home health aides
- Social workers
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- Full-time chaplain
- Bereavement care coordinator
- Skilled volunteers who assist with end-of-life care
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The patient's physician directs care, but our medical director is available for consultation.
- Specialized pain and symptom management
- Medical equipment and supplies
- Medication needed for comfort
Members of the Hospice Team are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to assist patients
and families with their needs. From home visits to phone calls, the team can help patients live
their last days comfortably.
- Provide pain and symptom management
- Make community referrals (i.e. medical alerts, meals on wheels)
- Provide spiritual evaluations
- Fulfill spiritual inspirations
- Teach family members to care for the patient
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- Provide transportation to medical appointments
- Assist with patients' personal care
- Do light household chores
- Run household errands
- Provide respite for caregivers
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