Gundersen Palmer Hospice renews its Level 5 partnership in the ‘We Honor Veterans’ program
Gundersen Palmer Hospice of West Union and Oelwein is proud to announce that it has renewed its Level 5 partnership with "We Honor Veterans,” a program of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs. As a continued partner, they demonstrate the highest level of commitment to veteran-centric care in the community. Gundersen Palmer Hospice is one of two Level 5 partners in the state of Iowa.
As a partner, Gundersen Palmer Hospice provides specialized care to veterans who are facing a serious illness. This includes a veteran-to-veteran volunteer program, training on conflict-specific medical and mental health concerns, and knowledge to assist veterans in navigating VA benefits. The goal is the provide the best possible care for veterans in the best possible manner and setting while honoring veterans’ preferences.
“As an organization, we felt it was important to participate in the ‘We Honor Veterans’ program because we serve many veterans,” said Angie Meyer, MSN, RN, CHPN, Gundersen Palmer Hospice Manager. “We have learned the importance of assessing military history to provide the quality care and educate the public on the resources that are available. A vast majority of veterans are not aware or enrolled in VA services and benefits.”
In Level 1, we provided veteran-centric education to our staff, and then in Level 2, we expanded it to our communities, including hospitals and clinics. At Level 3, we met with other local veteran organization supporters and the Department of VA health clinics to strengthen our relationships.
We increased access and improved quality in Level 4 by requiring all hospice patients to be assessed for military experience within five days of admission and care planning as needed. As we continue with Level 5, we are continuing to expand and mentor others through community events, presentations and news releases. If you would like to learn more or have a guest speaker, please call Gundersen Palmer Hospice at (563) 422-6267.