We Honor Veterans Program Awards Spencer Hospital Hospice Four-Star Recognition
Avera@Home Hospice of Spencer Hospital has earned a Level 4 Star designation in the national We Honor Veterans (WHV) program, a milestone that reflects a deep and sustained commitment to providing high-quality, veteran-centered hospice care.
We Honor Veterans is a collaboration between the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The program recognizes hospice organizations that demonstrate increasing levels of commitment and expertise in caring for veterans at the end of life. Hospices “earn their stars” by completing specific activities across progressive levels, helping veterans and VA partners easily identify providers equipped to deliver veteran-specific care through a knowledgeable and highly skilled workforce.
Achieving Level 4 means Avera@Home Hospice of Spencer Hospital has gone beyond education and partnerships to actively improve access to care and enhance the quality of services available to veterans and their families in northwest Iowa.
“This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to honoring those who have served our country,” said Alana Clark, Director of Hospice and Home Health at Spencer Hospital. “I am incredibly proud of our staff for achieving Level 4 Star status, but even more proud of the compassionate, respectful, and personalized care they provide to veterans during this important stage of their life journey. Our veterans deserve the very best.”
A key contributor to this achievement is Chelsea Reed, who has led much of the work over the past four years to advance the hospice’s participation in the We Honor Veterans program. Reed has worked tirelessly with the VA to ensure Avera@Home Hospice of Spencer Hospital provides the highest quality of care to veteran hospice patients and their families.
“Chelsea’s dedication has been instrumental in reaching this level,” Clark added. “Her commitment, persistence, and advocacy for our veteran patients have strengthened our partnerships with the VA and elevated the care we provide every day.”
For veterans, this recognition means access to hospice care that acknowledges military service, understands the unique physical, emotional, and spiritual needs that may accompany that service, and honors each veteran’s goals and preferences at the end of life.
Individuals and families interested in learning more about hospice services for themselves or a loved one are encouraged to contact Avera@Home Hospice of Spencer Hospital at (712) 264-6380.