PinnacleHealth transitions hospice program to Hospice of Central Pennsylvania [The Sentinel, Carlisle, Pa.]

Dec. 29--The Boards of Hospice of Central Pennsylvania and PinnacleHealth System have voted to approve the transfer of PinnacleHealth's Hospice program to Hospice of Central Pennsylvania effective Jan. 9, 2012, PinnacleHealth announced in a press release today.

The parties have agreed to work together to ensure the smooth transition of care and services, the press release says.

Patients of PinnacleHealth Hospice are being informed of their right to choose a new hospice provider be it Hospice of Central Pennsylvania or another provider of hospice. According to the press release, arrangements are in place to ensure a seamless alignment that will not disrupt the high-quality patient care provided by both agencies. As part of the transfer, over 45 staff from PinnacleHealth Hospice will join HCP in order to ensure continuity of service provision.

"Healthcare reform is encouraging health systems and other health care providers to collaborate in many ways to improve coordination, quality of care and the cost effectiveness of services they provide," said Michael A. Young, President and CEO of PinnacleHealth system. "We want patients to receive the highest level of care. Hospice of Central Pennsylvania is poised to better serve the community because it offers a well-honed focus on hospice."

Karen Paris, CEO of Hospice of Central Pennsylvania said that the move makes good strategic sense for both organizations. "We are honored that PinnacleHealth has chosen to align itself with HCP. As two community-based agencies, we share a common culture of non-profit, mission-oriented community service resulting in the highest quality care to hospice patients and their families in the region," she noted.

According to the press releae, patients with questions or who need information are advised to call -717-732-1000.

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