PHPCN Clinical Intensive: A Professional Training for Palliative and Hospice Clinicians
Hosted by PHPCN
Eligibility and Recertification, Ric Baxter, MD FAAHPM, Hospice Medical Director, Emeritus Palliative Care Physician, St. Luke’s University Health Network, Member, PHPCN Board of Directors, Joan Harrold, MD MPH FACP FAAHPM, Medical Director, Lifesong Hospice and Palliative Care, Member, PHPCN Board of Directors
A review of the Conditions of Participation and LCD’s to further an understanding of the necessary components for recertification of Hospice Eligibility and guide supportive documentation.
Acetaminophen to Ziconotide: Understanding and Managing Pain, Ric Baxter, MD, FAAHPM, Hospice Medical Director, Emeritus Palliative Care Physician, St. Luke’s University Health Network, Member, PHPCN Board of Directors
Pain is a major source of suffering at the end of life creating distress for patients and families. Studies continue to show that pain is under-treated, even at the end of life. Participants will learn to assess and treat pain with skill and confidence. They will understand pharmacologic options, particularly opiates, and how to effectively calculate dosages and routes of administration. We will explore some off-label medication uses as well as complementary/alternative options.
Delirium in Palliative Care: Recognition, Management, and Support, Jasmine King, MSN, AGACNP-BC, Nurse Practitioner; Instructor of Medicine; Medical Co-Director, Inpatient Geriatric Medicine Consult Service, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Division of Geriatric Medicine
Delirium is common and distressing in palliative care, affecting patients and families alike. This 60-minute interactive session will help clinicians recognize delirium subtypes, identify reversible causes, and apply patient-centered management strategies. Using case discussions and practical examples, participants will learn non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic approaches, with a focus on comfort, safety, and effective communication with families
Navigating Frailty: Clinical Insights and Compassionate Care in Hospice, Amy Westcott, MD MHPE MBA FAAHPM AGSF, Professor of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, Penn State Health, Penn State College of Medicine and Maria Olender, MD, FAAHPM, Chief Medical Officer of Choices Healthcare
This session explores the clinical dimensions of frailty in older adults and its impact on hospice care. Through case-based discussion and interdisciplinary strategies, participants will gain practical tools for assessment, management, and compassionate communication. Emphasis will be placed on aligning care with patient values and fostering dignity at the end of life.
Palliative Sedation in End-of-Life Care, Ric Baxter, MD, FAAHPM, Hospice Medical Director, Emeritus Palliative Care Physician, St. Luke’s University Health Network
Palliative sedation is a complex and ethically significant intervention used in end-of-life care to alleviate severe suffering when other interventions are ineffective. This workshop offers a comprehensive exploration of palliative sedation, focusing on its indications, administration guidelines, ethical considerations, and impact on patient care.
HOPE Assessment Tool and Quality Management Strategies
Elizabeth Press, BSN, RN, CHPN, Regional Executive of Clinical Operations, Compassus
A review of the new HOPE requirements and strategies for communication, data collection and timely submissions.