Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast

Vantage Hospice & Palliative Care
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Welcome to Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast, your go-to educational podcast on hospice care in Houston, Texas. Hosted by Nicole Knight, Administrator and Nurse Practitioner at Vantage Hospice, this podcast delves into the compassionate world of hospice and palliative care, offering insights, expert interviews, and valuable resources to help families navigate one of life’s most profound journeys. Each episode features discussions with experienced medical professionals, caregivers, and members of the Vantage Hospice team, providing listeners with a deep understanding of what hospice care entails and how it can profoundly impact the lives of patients and their loved ones. From managing chronic diseases to making informed decisions about end-of-life care, Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast is here to guide, educate, and support you. Vantage Hospice was founded in 2011 by a dedicated group of local physicians with a mission to deliver excellent patient care while honoring the dignity and wishes of those we serve. Over the years, we’ve grown, but our commitment to compassionate care remains steadfast. In April 2021, we launched our community-based palliative care program, designed to help patients manage symptoms and improve their quality of life. Join us as we explore the critical conversations surrounding hospice and palliative care, share stories of hope and resilience, and provide the information you need to make the best decisions for your health and well-being. Whether you’re a caregiver, a medical professional, or someone seeking to learn more about hospice care, Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast is here to be your trusted companion.

Episodes

  1. NOV 21

    Our Way of Caring: Expanding Our Mission to Bryan-College Station

    In this episode of Our Way of Caring, we sit down with Nicole and Raquel to share an exciting update — Vantage Hospice is expanding into the Bryan–College Station community. The conversation walks through why this area was chosen, what makes the community so special, and how Vantage plans to bring its philosophy of compassionate, high-quality care into a new region. This episode gives listeners an inside look at what it takes to open a new branch, the importance of finding the right team, and how Vantage plans to support patients and families across Bryan–College Station and surrounding communities. 00:00 Welcome Back to the Podcast 00:22 Announcing Our Expansion 01:10 Raquel’s Return and Community Insights 02:45 Why Bryan–College Station 04:32 Building the Right Care Team 07:15 Preparing for Opening Day 08:50 What Comes Next Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life-limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high-quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is a philosophy. Vantage Hospice & Palliative Care Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is philosophy.

    10 min
  2. Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 10] Your Hospice Questions Answered

    OCT 7

    Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 10] Your Hospice Questions Answered

    In this episode of 'Our Way of Caring' by Vantage Hospice, we talk to Brandy to address frequently asked questions about hospice care. The episode delves into what hospice care is, how it operates, especially within Houston and Vantage Hospice, and the roles and services provided by the hospice team. Furthermore, it explores how to determine when it might be time to switch to hospice care, emphasizing the importance of individualized care, family conversations, and the holistic support hospice offers, including comfort measures and emotional readiness. 00:00 Welcome to Vantage Hospice Podcast00:21 Understanding Hospice Care01:43 Personalized Care in Houston03:51 When to Consider Hospice Care06:10 The Gift of Hospice08:40 Ensuring Comfort and HappinessVantage Hospice & Palliative Care Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is philosophy.

    11 min
  3. Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 9] Hospice 101: Support, Care, and What To Expect

    JUL 2

    Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 9] Hospice 101: Support, Care, and What To Expect

    In this episode of the Vantage Hospice podcast, host Nicole Knight sits down with Brandi Gabriel, the Director of Clinical Services at Vantage Hospice, to discuss what patients and their families can expect when signing up for hospice care. Brandi explains the initial process, the roles of various hospice team members, the importance of a personalized care plan, and what to anticipate during the first week of service. Additionally, this episode sheds light on end-of-life care and what families can expect when a loved one passes away in hospice care. Join us for this comprehensive discussion to better understand the journey of hospice care. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:32 Understanding the Initial Hospice Process00:54 Meeting the Hospice Team02:43 First Week on Hospice: What to Expect04:19 Routine Hospice Visits05:05 Building Relationships and Communication08:20 Preparing for the End: Honest Conversations12:19 Final Days and Support17:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Vantage Hospice & Palliative Care Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is philosophy.

    18 min
  4. Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 8]: Legacy Through Bedside Narratives

    APR 2

    Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 8]: Legacy Through Bedside Narratives

    Capturing Life Stories: An Insight into Bedside Narratives with Shriya Pendyala | Vantage Hospice Podcast In this insightful episode of the Vantage Hospice podcast, host Nicole Knight welcomes Shriya Pendyala, a junior studying at Rice University. Shriya is the co-founder of Bedside Narratives, an organization dedicated to documenting the life stories of hospice and elder care patients for their memoirs. She discusses the inspiration behind the initiative, the process of capturing patient stories, and the impact on families. Additionally, Shriya shares her experiences working with Houston Methodist and her future aspirations in medicine. Tune in to learn about this unique intersection of creative writing and patient care. 00:00 Introduction to Vantage Hospice Podcast 00:27 Meet Shriya Pendyala: Founder of Bedside Narratives 00:42 The Concept and Impact of Bedside Narratives 02:19 Collaboration with Houston Hospice 03:10 Volunteer Recruitment and Training 04:26 The Interview Process and Creating Memoirs 06:20 Funding and Expansion Plans 07:20 Personal Stories and Inspirations 13:06 Future Plans and Continuity 18:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Vantage Hospice & Palliative Care Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is philosophy.

    19 min
  5. Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 7]: A Heart for Hospice with Edwin Gomez

    FEB 17

    Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 7]: A Heart for Hospice with Edwin Gomez

    Finding Passion in Hospice Care: Edwin Gomez's Journey In this episode of our podcast with Vantage Hospice, we talk to Edwin Gomez, a dedicated RN case manager, about his 12-year experience in hospice care and his journey to becoming a nurse. Edwin shares how a 'happy accident' led him to hospice, his love for caring for older adults, and the essential role he plays in providing emotional and practical support to patients and their families. He also discusses the misinformation surrounding hospice care and the importance of educating the public on what hospice truly means. The conversation highlights the strong community and sense of belonging Edwin feels at Vantage Hospice, which has kept him passionate about his work for nearly nine years. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:02 Meet Edwin Gomez: A Journey in Hospice Care 00:56 How Edwin Became a Nurse 01:36 The Happy Accident: Transition to Hospice 04:47 The Role of a Hospice Nurse 07:00 Why Vantage Hospice? 08:23 The Importance of Hospice Education 09:05 Final Thoughts and Invitation Vantage Hospice & Palliative Care Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is philosophy.

    10 min
  6. Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 6]: Jenifer's Path to Becoming a Hospice Aide

    FEB 14

    Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 6]: Jenifer's Path to Becoming a Hospice Aide

    Meet Jenifer: A Heartwarming Journey in Hospice Care | Vantage Hospice Podcast In this heartfelt episode of the Vantage Hospice podcast, host Nicole Knight welcomes Jenifer Bedoya-Freed, a dedicated hospice aide originally from Venezuela. Jenifer shares her inspiring journey of how she became a CNA and later transitioned into hospice care after moving from Colorado to Houston. She talks about her profound connection with patients and the unique, personalized care she provides. Jenifer and Nicole also discuss the family-like atmosphere at Vantage Hospice, challenges faced, and the unwavering support within the organization. Tune in to learn more about Jenifer's dedication and the exceptional standards at Vantage Hospice. 00:00 Welcome to Vantage Hospice Podcast 00:21 Meet Jenifer: A Journey from Venezuela 01:09 Becoming a Nurse: Jenifer's Story 02:10 Transition to Hospice Care 03:03 The Role of a Hospice Aide 06:03 The Vantage Family Experience 07:48 High Standards and Supportive Environment 09:05 Closing Remarks and Gratitude Vantage Hospice & Palliative Care Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is philosophy.

    9 min
  7. Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 5]: The Vital Role of Volunteers in Hospice Care in Houston, Texas

    12/26/2024

    Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 5]: The Vital Role of Volunteers in Hospice Care in Houston, Texas

    In this episode of the Vantage Hospice podcast, we sit down with Angelica, the volunteer coordinator, to discuss the integral role of volunteers in the hospice community. Angelica shares her journey from a hospice volunteer to her current role, emphasizing the importance of volunteer work and detailing the various opportunities available, including direct and indirect support for patients and their families. She also elaborates on CMS's 5% volunteer requirement, the impact of volunteers on patient care, and stories of meaningful connections. Listeners will gain insights into how to become a volunteer, the types of activities involved, and the profound effect volunteerism has on both the patients and the volunteers themselves. 00:00 Introduction to Vantage Hospice Podcast 00:13 Meet Angelica: Volunteer Coordinator 00:57 Angelica's Journey into Hospice Care 01:41 Understanding the 5% Volunteer Requirement 03:10 Roles and Opportunities for Volunteers 04:07 Direct Volunteer Activities 06:52 Indirect Volunteer Activities 07:36 Becoming a Volunteer: Process and Requirements 11:08 Heartwarming Volunteer Stories 13:04 Caregiver Relief and Support 14:55 Special Talents and Community Involvement 17:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Vantage Hospice & Palliative Care Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is philosophy.

    18 min
  8. Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 4] - Coping with Holiday Grief & Traditions

    11/26/2024

    Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 4] - Coping with Holiday Grief & Traditions

    Our Way of Caring: Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 4] - Coping with Holiday Grief & Traditions In this episode of the Vantage Hospice podcast, host Nicole welcomes Beth Fortier, the Director of Social Work and Psychosocial Services at Vantage. Beth shares her extensive experience in hospice care and her passion for supporting patients and families. They discuss the emotional challenges of grief during the holiday season, particularly for those with a loved one in hospice care. Beth provides insights on coping mechanisms, maintaining or changing traditions, and the importance of acknowledging one’s feelings. The episode emphasizes the need for anticipatory grief support, sharing memories, and allowing oneself grace during this tough time. 00:00 Introduction to Vantage Hospice Podcast 00:09 Meet Ms. Beth Fortier 00:45 Discussing Grief and the Holidays 02:28 Anticipatory Grief During the Holidays 04:24 Coping Mechanisms and Traditions 06:53 Personal Stories and Experiences 19:46 Involving Loved Ones in Holiday Festivities 22:56 Final Thoughts and Resources Helpful Articles by Vantage Hospice & Palliative Care: Get-Togethers While Coping with a Terminally Ill Loved OneHonoring Memories and Sharing Gratitude: Embracing the Spirit of the Holidays Amidst Serious IllnessVantage Hospice & Palliative Care Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is philosophy.

    24 min
  9. Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 3] End-of-Life Nutrition with Our Dietitian

    10/25/2024

    Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 3] End-of-Life Nutrition with Our Dietitian

    Navigating End-Of-Life Nutrition: Expert Insights from a Hospice Dietitian In this insightful episode of the Vantage Hospice podcast, host Nicole Knight welcomes Kristen Schwab, a specialized hospice dietitian. Kristen discusses her transition from traditional dietetics to hospice care, sharing vital insights on end-of-life nutrition. The conversation covers topics such as 'pleasure feeding,' the use and limitations of PEG tubes, managing common issues like constipation, and debunking myths around dietary supplements. They also delve into the balance between diabetes management and comfort-focused care, emphasizing the importance of allowing patients to enjoy their favorite foods. Practical tips on fortifying meals, hydrating effectively, and adapting food textures to reduce aspiration risks are shared, alongside advice on identifying muscle wasting. This episode aims to provide caregivers with essential information and support to ensure comfort, peace, and nourishment for patients during their final stages of life. 00:00 Introduction to the Discussion 00:16 Kristen Schwab's Journey to Hospice Dietetics 00:47 The Role of Nutrition in Hospice Care 01:38 Tips for Families on Feeding Loved Ones 03:01 PEG Tubes and End-of-Life Decisions 04:12 Managing Swallowing Issues 05:45 Addressing Constipation in Hospice Patients 07:04 The Role of Vitamins and Supplements 08:02 Diabetes Management at the End of Life 09:36 Challenges of Feeding at the End of Life 11:31 Wound Care and Nutrition at End of Life 12:20 Encouraging Pleasure Feeding 13:31 Understanding the Dying Process 14:27 Managing Food Textures and Diets 19:18 Tube Feeding Decisions in Hospice 23:14 Supporting Families Through the Process 23:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Vantage Hospice & Palliative Care Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is philosophy.

    25 min
  10. Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 2] Understanding Hospice Care in Houston

    09/19/2024

    Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 2] Understanding Hospice Care in Houston

    Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast [Episode 2] Understanding Hospice Care in Houston In this insightful episode of the Vantage Hospice podcast, host Nicole welcomes Bridget Wilson, RN. PCM, a seasoned Patient Care Manager with extensive hospice experience since 2005.  Bridget shares her journey and deep involvement in various hospice roles, emphasizing the importance of personalized care plans and the core interdisciplinary team required for hospice accreditation.  The discussion covers the different levels of hospice care, from routine home care to respite and general inpatient care. Bridget and Nicole highlight what families should look for in a hospice provider, the roles of various team members, and the importance of communication and support throughout the hospice experience.  They also discuss Vantage Hospice's commitment to responsive care, after-hours support, and their unique approach to being there for patients and families during challenging times. Vantage Hospice & Palliative Care Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is philosophy.

    24 min
  11. Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast - Episode 1

    08/16/2024

    Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast - Episode 1

    In the inaugural episode of "Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast," Nicole Knight, the administrator of Vantage Hospice, and Dr. Theodore J. Trumble MD, the founding medical director, share their journey of establishing and growing Vantage Hospice over the past 13 years. They discuss the origins of the hospice, the challenges they faced in building a patient-centered care model, and the importance of a strong interdisciplinary team. The episode highlights the unique aspects of hospice care, including dispelling common misconceptions, the ethical and moral considerations in patient care, and the critical role of a cohesive team in providing comprehensive support to patients and families. Nicole and Dr. Trumbull also touch on the evolution of their palliative care program and its significance in bridging the gap between active treatment and end-of-life care. Listeners are invited to join them in future episodes as they continue to explore the compassionate world of hospice care, sharing insights and stories that define their commitment to providing exceptional care to the Houston community. Vantage Hospice & Palliative Care Our Mission Vantage Hospice, LLC is dedicated to providing individualized hospice care with services specially tailored to the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with life limiting illness, their families and the community, by delivering high quality and compassionate care. We strive to create a culture dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, families and employees based on the principles of dignity, respect and compassion. Hospice recognizes dying as part of the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the quality of remaining life. It affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death through a multidisciplinary team approach. Hospice is not a place. It is philosophy.

    32 min
  • 11 Episodes

About

Welcome to Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast, your go-to educational podcast on hospice care in Houston, Texas. Hosted by Nicole Knight, Administrator and Nurse Practitioner at Vantage Hospice, this podcast delves into the compassionate world of hospice and palliative care, offering insights, expert interviews, and valuable resources to help families navigate one of life’s most profound journeys. Each episode features discussions with experienced medical professionals, caregivers, and members of the Vantage Hospice team, providing listeners with a deep understanding of what hospice care entails and how it can profoundly impact the lives of patients and their loved ones. From managing chronic diseases to making informed decisions about end-of-life care, Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast is here to guide, educate, and support you. Vantage Hospice was founded in 2011 by a dedicated group of local physicians with a mission to deliver excellent patient care while honoring the dignity and wishes of those we serve. Over the years, we’ve grown, but our commitment to compassionate care remains steadfast. In April 2021, we launched our community-based palliative care program, designed to help patients manage symptoms and improve their quality of life. Join us as we explore the critical conversations surrounding hospice and palliative care, share stories of hope and resilience, and provide the information you need to make the best decisions for your health and well-being. Whether you’re a caregiver, a medical professional, or someone seeking to learn more about hospice care, Our Way of Caring: The Vantage Hospice Podcast is here to be your trusted companion.

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