Hospice: What it means, who can access it

What role does hospice play in end-of-life care? Is it the same as palliative care? Are there costs associated, and what kind of supports can hospice offer? We answer these questions and more alongside Vancouver Hospice Society and Casey House, two organizations committed to compassionate care at the end of life.

Speakers

• Sarah Cobb has many years of experience working in palliative and end-of-life care. Prior to joining VHS, Sarah led practice in the role of Clinical Nurse Leader at St Paul’s Palliative Care unit for over 10 years. She has also been a member of the Vancouver End-of-Life Working group since 2010. Sarah has worked hard to make a difference in the clinical and administrative practice of palliative care and feels honoured to be in a leadership and advocacy role as Executive Director at VHS.
• Liz Creal, has been a social worker at Casey House since 2005. Her clinical experience includes end of life care to individuals and their supports, bereavement support, individual counseling, substance use counseling and advocacy with people living with or at risk of HIV and their families. In addition to her direct clinical work with clients, Liz has participated in numerous research initiatives related to HIV, substance use and mental health. She has also designed and co-facilitated programs with partner organizations, including a group program for people with HIV associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society of Toronto. Since 2017 Liz has been involved with the development of the MAiD policy at Casey House as well as education and training to Casey House staff. She has supported individuals and their families through the MAiD process. Liz is a member of the Advisory Counsel at MAiD House. Prior to her work at Casey House Liz has an extensive background in social work and community development and has a range of skills and experience with a particular focus on marginalized communities. For the past three years Liz has also been co-producer, writer and host for the podcast ‘Positively Speaking’ (available on major podcast platforms). Positively speaking explores the experiences of people living with HIV. In Season 2, episode 1 is devoted to an interview Liz conducted with Eric, two days before his MAiD procedure at Casey House.