In collaboration with the American Heart Association, St. Croix Hospice created a specialized Heart Failure Program tailored to meeting the unique needs of hospice patients with heart failure. Our mission is to ensure that the patient, and the family or caregivers receive the necessary support and education to manage symptoms effectively, and safely in the comforts of home.

With our program, you can expect:

  • To receive routine visits by a nurse with specialized training in the evaluation of cardiac disease, to evaluate and manage heart disease, and to control the symptoms at home. The nurse will follow the patient’s specific hospice care plan.
  • To receive patient education specifically designed for you. If you have any questions about the contents of this booklet, please ask your St. Croix Hospice nurse.
  • To be part of a team overseen by our hospice physician who works directly with the patient’s care team to individualize a plan of care.
  • To have medications ordered by St. Croix Hospice to help control symptoms. Your St. Croix Hospice nurse will review medications with you and order those medications that are essential for symptom management.
  • To receive additional supportive care in the form of visits provided by a St. Croix Hospice social worker, nursing assistant, a chaplain, complimentary therapies such as music and massage, and/or a volunteer at your request.

What this Certification Means

The American Heart Association Palliative/Hospice Heart Failure certification recognizes our commitment to delivering high-quality care. It ensures that our practices meet high standards and follow the latest clinical guidelines for managing heart failure. This certification demonstrates:

  • Dedication to best practices for heart failure management
  • A focus on care that prioritizes comfort, dignity and support
  • A commitment to ongoing education and training for our care teams

Improved Quality of Life

Following the program’s recommendations, patients can experience significant improvements in their quality of life. This includes setting realistic goals and plans, participating in healthcare decisions, keeping track of medications and appointments, adapting favorite family recipes to a heart-friendly diet, assisting with daily living activities and physical exercises, and asking questions to better understand heart failure.

To learn more about St. Croix Hospice’s American Heart Association certified Heart Failure Care, contact us today.