ENGAGING COMMUNITY HOSPICE PROVIDERS TO SUPPORT VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES AT END-OF-LIFE

• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igae098.2026
• Publication Date: 2025-01-01T14:33:52Z
• Authors: Deanna Dragan; Lauren Hagemann; Cynthia Jarmul
• Keywords: Hospice care

Abstract The VHA’s Empowering Community Hospices Initiative was developed to help strengthen the coordination of care practices with non-VA providers. It is imperative that community hospice providers (CHP) be privy unique experiences Veterans as their needs may significantly different than those a non-veteran at end-of-life (EOL) like specialized and benefits for conditions such PTSD, Moral injury suicidality. For this project we completed formal program evaluation study in collaboration CHPs explore potential barriers facilitators creating sustaining partnerships. Data collection included semi-structured interviews stakeholders (n = 18) across multiple disciplines (e.g., Social Workers, Psychologists, Physicians, etc.) National, VISN, local levels. Also, conducted outreach efforts 8), 4), coordinated face-to-face site visits 4) VHA team meet teams each agency. These revealed themes related perceived achieving goals initiative. Themes identified included: point contact, timeline care, differences per agency, need resources support Veterans’ families. collaborated develop feasible partnerships plans sustainability using consultation model care. anticipated demand EOL services soon exceed supply VA facilities can provide; thus, these improve access settings.