Hospice of the Western Reserve Achieves Highest Rating for Veterans Program

Hospice of the Western Reserve provides specialized care to veterans through its Peaceful & Proud program. This year, HWR was the first hospice in Northeast Ohio to achieve “level 5 partner” status from We Honor Veterans (WHV), a joint initiative of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA). This designation – the highest available - requires the completion of several activities, a greater emphasis on staff education and care plans addressing the complex needs of Vietnam era and combat veterans. As a level 5 partner, HWR also takes on the added role of serving as a regional mentor to other hospice organizations. Yearly recertification is required.

Virtual Options Keeping Vets Connected

One of the most meaningful aspects of Peaceful & Proud are the recognition ceremonies conducted by veteran volunteers for patients who are veterans. Patients are honored for their military service and presented with a commemorative certificate and pin. Although typically conducted in person, the ceremonies are virtual in 2020 to protect the wellbeing of patients, families and volunteers. Virtual ceremonies are arranged by volunteer service managers working remotely with clinical teams, veteran patients and their families. Following HIPAA regulations, veteran volunteers conduct the ceremonies using a secure telecommunications platform. Family members can witness the video ceremony live and interact with their loved one from multiple locations across the country as they are being honored. HWR’s support during the pandemic extends to veterans in the community. This summer and fall, through a series of Virtual Veterans Cafés, veterans of all eras can come together, swap stories and enjoy each other’s company using their cell phone, tablet, laptop or Smart TV. 

Veterans of all eras are invited to connect with other veterans at our free Virtual Veterans Cafe.  Connect on the web using your cell phone, iPad or Smart TV. Talk to other veterans or just sit back, listen and enjoy the camaraderie. 

The next Veteran's Cafe will be on September 3 at 1 p.m. To register, contact Nathan Gradisher at NGradisher@HospiceWR.org, 216.832-9390.

You can also register online here.