Hospice care plays a crucial role in providing compassionate support to individuals during their final stage of life, ensuring comfort, dignity, and peace. However, recent research has raised concerns about the growing dominance of for-profit hospices, many of which are owned by private equity firms and publicly traded companies. A study by Weill Cornell Medicine, published in JAMA in November 2023, found that for-profit hospices perform substantially worse than nonprofit ones, particularly in patient communication, symptom management, and emotional support. This is troubling, as nearly 75% of hospices in the U.S. are for-profit, raising questions about the quality of care patients receive in their final days.

For almost 30 years, Caring Connections (housed in the University of Utah College of Nursing) has been offering grief support to the community and providing grief groups. CNS has been fortunate enough to partner with Caring Connections this year in offering their specific evidenced based support group content to our families. In addition, another opportunity has come our way through Caring Connections.

November is National Family Caregivers Month—a time to honor and recognize the millions of family caregivers nationwide who provide essential support to their loved ones. These caregivers, often working quietly behind the scenes, are the unsung heroes who face immense challenges every day, balancing their personal lives with the demanding responsibility of caring for family members with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or age-related conditions. This month, we take a moment to reflect on their tireless efforts, acknowledge their sacrifices, and call for greater recognition, resources, and support to ensure their well-being.

We are thrilled to highlight two of our outstanding volunteers, Aksel Anderson and Melissa Southwick, who were recognized with a Heart &Hands Award at Utah Philanthropy Day. This prestigious honor is given to those whose volunteer work makes a lasting impact on their organizations' missions. Aksel and Melissa are shining examples of selflessness, compassion, and dedication in hospice care, and we are proud to celebrate their contributions.

CNS patient, Cecil Bruton, received an Honor Salute ceremony, acknowledging his 20-year military service, including two tours in Vietnam and numerous earned medals, badges, and awards. For the ceremony, he was joined at home by his family and, despite enduring a mountain of painful health issues, was alert and able to understand what was going on and appreciate the moment.