“It is invigorating to learn and share with like-minded, mission-driven hospice organizations that share in the work we are privileged to do,” observed Michael Milward, CEO of Hospice of Santa Cruz County.

Milward is one of eight representatives of the California hospice visiting Ohio’s Hospice this week in a collaboration to explore best practices in caring for those with life-limiting illnesses. “There are many commonalities and opportunities for us to consider,” according to Milward. “We are very interested in gaining insights into clinical operations at Ohio’s Hospice. The Ohio’s Hospice affiliation of not-for-profit hospices also offers valuable insights into the evolution of hospice care. Not-for-profit hospices in northern California are also starting to examine the advantages offered by working together toward common patient-centered goals.”

In addition to the CEO, the visiting group includes members of nursing leadership, the Chief Clinical Officer and Chief Strategy Officer. They are spending time with colleagues in parallel positions as well as meeting with staff from across Ohio’s Hospice departments for a first-hand experience of the organizational culture.

Hospice of Santa Cruz was founded almost 40 years ago and serves about 200 patients daily. Last year, the team provided grief support to 546 children through their grief support and in-school grief education program and established a palliative care pilot to allow people facing serious illness an extra layer of support and care.