There is an exercise I have done with my staff, with medical students, and even with patients over the years. I ask them to think about how they would answer the following: If you could decide…”Where would you want to die and who would you want with you?” I have very rarely heard someone reply…”in the hospital.” Most people say they want to be in their homes surrounded by their loved ones and the majority of time, those under the care of hospice are able to have that goal met. But for those who are experiencing their end of life journey in the hospital or in a setting (including home) where their needs cannot be met to ensure a peaceful, comfortable, and dignified death, is there another option?
I sit in my office while writing this. Across the street is a 14-bed inpatient facility specia