Connecting Through Care
A peer network connected for quality.
Welcome to the West Virginia Hospice and Palliative Care Network.
​
The West Virginia Hospice & Palliative Care Network (WVHPCN) is a collaborative of community-based palliative care and hospice organizations that provide supportive care to individuals with chronic conditions and serious illnesses. WVHPCN employs an evidence-based approach to achieving optimal results for patients, health partners, and health plans by leveraging shared resources and adhering to industry best practices.
PALLIATIVE CARE
Palliative care is a medical specialty—like oncology or cardiology—for seriously ill patients and their families. The word “palliate” means to relieve suffering and improve the quality of life of patients with a serious disease when a cure is not expected. It focuses on relief of physical, emotional and spiritual distress of the patients, as well as support for their families.
HOSPICE CARE
Hospice care provides medical, social and spiritual care for those whose lives are affected by a terminal illness — specifically patients and their families. Care is provided at the patient’s home, in a participating long-term care or assisted living facility or at one of our own in-patient homes. Hospice concentrates on easing the pain and suffering associated with illness, focusing on comfort and maximizing the quality of life.