COOPERSTOWN – Bassett Healthcare Network and Helios Care are collaborating to provide cost-effective and integrated hospice and palliative care to patients in Central New York. The two organizations are working together to establish a more cohesive and seamless continuum of care services for patients from birth to end-of-life across Bassett’s eight-county region.
As a result of the collaborative agreement, the New York State Department of Health has given approval for Helios Care to expand their services to include Herkimer and Chenango Counties to better serve Bassett Healthcare Network. Currently, Helios Care serves Otsego, Delaware, and Schoharie Counties. By adding additional counties, Helios Care will cover the majority of Bassett Healthcare Network’s service area.
Hospice and palliative care are patient-centered services that focus on promoting comfort and quality of life for patients with serious, long-term, or terminal illnesses. Care is provided by an interdisciplinary team of clinicians, including physicians, nurses, social workers, volunteers, and bereavement counselors. Through in-home care, education, and support, Helios Care’s team empowers patients, their families, and caregivers to make informed choices and be actively involved in care plans.
As part of their collaboration, Bassett and Helios Care are putting in place an electronically driven referral process that will foster more efficient services between the two organizations, including value-based contracting for hospice and palliative care services
Collaborative efforts for a transitional care program, which will provide in-home care for patients with serious illnesses, chronic diseases, and end-of-life needs.
A comprehensive palliative care and hospice service to treat patients in the hospital, in outpatient settings, and at home.
In 2022, Helios Care served more than 580 patients across Otsego, Delaware, Schoharie, and Greene Counties. Patients receiving services had diagnoses related to cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s or dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and neurological diseases, among others. Throughout 2023, nearly 90 patients have received palliative care and symptom management in cooperation with area healthcare providers. In addition, 555 clients have received bereavement services and support and 33 community bereavement sessions have been offered.
For more information about Bassett Healthcare visit www.bassett.org; for more information about Helios visit www.helioscare.org
