One of the most crucial decisions a person makes in life is choosing a hospice agency to support their loved ones for end of life care.

While there are many factors to consider when selecting a hospice, the tax status of the agency is an important one. Research commissioned by the National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation and conducted by Milliman, a global actuarial and consulting firm, found significant differences between for-profit and nonprofit hospice agencies. (Link to study here.) We at Community Nursing Services (CNS) understand this well as Utah’s oldest nonprofit home health care agency.

The CNS Memorial Ornament Program is a way for families to remember their lost loved ones and also help individuals in need access compassionate health and hospice through the CNS Charitable Care Program.

This holiday season, the CNS Charitable Care Program gave a special gift to families throughout Utah whose loved one passed away with assistance from the CNS Hospice Program in the last year.

“Coping with grief is always difficult and the holiday season really amplifies feelings of loss,” said Laura Thomas, Director of Philanthropy for CNS.

The reality of hospice care and how CNS provides end-of-life comfort and dignity.

As Utah’s first home hospice care agency, CNS has provided compassionate end-of-life care to Utah since 1928. We emphasize creating moments and experiences that provide peace of mind to our patients and their families. Being admitted into hospice care or watching a loved one enter it can be a scary and overwhelming experience. Death is not easy to face, and that can lead to misconceptions or myths about hospice care. We’re here to clear that up and share how CNS helps patients and their families navigate this difficult part of life.