Franciscan Hospice and Palliative Care

As a healthcare professional attempting to coordinate care, I contacted the publicly listed number for Franciscan Hospice and Palliative Care. The call routed to an after-hours triage nurse with no option to reach intake or administrative staff. If services have not yet been established, the triage line is not helpful and does not allow verification of referral status. Additionally, no direct callback number was provided, only a message relay system. It would be beneficial for the organization to clearly list a direct intake or administrative contact number for care coordination purposes during business hours. This would help prevent delays in establishing services for patients.

Referral from Gig Harbor St Anthony’s Hospice location Tacoma team ### Review of Franciscan Hospice Navigating the hospice process can be incredibly challenging, and my family's experience with Franciscan Hospice was particularly distressing. While I initially hoped for a compassionate and supportive environment, numerous red flags and disappointments marred our journey. #### Initial Impressions - **Hospital Recommendation**: We were referred to Franciscan Hospice by a hospital representative, but this first encounter was troubling. The hospice representative was rude, dismissive, and argumentative, displaying a lack of empathy that set a negative tone. - **Lack of Respect**: The representative’s unwillingness to engage respectfully with my father, a hospice patient, was alarming. This should have been a warning sign about the quality of care to expect. First Visit - **Professionalism**: During our first visit, while the nurse and social worker were present, the social worker called my father by the wrong name. This mistake, coupled with her dismissive attitude, contributed to a feeling of disconnect. It was apparent that they were performing a job rather than fostering a genuine connection with our family. - **Absence of Compassion**: There was a noticeable lack of warmth, which is essential in hospice care. The staff seemed indifferent to the emotional weight of our situation. Care During a Critical Time - **Inadequate Support**: When we reached out for help on the night before my father passed, the response was unsatisfactory. We were advised to adjust medication rather than receiving immediate, compassionate care. *Crisis Care Issues**: On the day of my father's passing, I requested crisis care, but there was no urgency from the staff. They indicated that help would come when available, without providing clear information about hospice house options, which left us feeling abandoned. Lack of Essential Resources**: I was shocked to discover that a comfort kit—which is vital for easing a patient's anxiety—was never ordered. This oversight forced me to improvise care for my father during his final moments, which was devastating. Final Moments - **Lack of Peace**: I cannot express how distressing it was to see my father agitated and without the necessary medication to help him during his passing. The absence of proper care during such a critical time is unacceptable. Conclusion I strongly urge anyone navigating the hospice selection process to trust their instincts. My experience with Franciscan Hospice was marred by a lack of compassion, professionalism, and essential care. It’s paramount to choose a hospice agency that genuinely prioritizes the comfort and dignity of patients and their families during such a vulnerable time.

The staff here is exemplary. Their top priority was to keep my dad as comfortable as possible and to free our family members up to be present for my dad and each other during his transition. Their service to my dad and our family was the gift of a lifetime.

I can't say enough about the amazing care my mother and family received from the staff at Franciscan Hospice House. Mom was cared for and her pain was managed so she didn't suffer. The staff was caring, thoughtful and comforting. My daughter and I were able to stay with mom until she went on to her last journey. We have a large family that was welcome to come at any time. All though is a hole in my heart with mom's passing I have welcomed and benefited from their continuing grief counseling and support. Oh yeah, I recently fell and broke my hip. My 5 year old grandson wanted to know if I going to the same place as Grandma Montana cause they had really good snacks.

My sister was here for a very short time but I have to say. Outstanding care and compassion. Every member of the staff was willing to spend time with us, explaining the process and what to expect. I am very grateful for these lovely people. Facilities are spotless clean and they have food, drinks and snacks.