Meet Our Hospice Team
The Hospice team works tirelessly to make sure all the needs of the patient and family are met... physically, spiritually, socially and emotionally.
Medical Director
Dr. James Bell, St. Luke's Hospice Medical Director, works closely with each patient's doctor to provide oversight and assistance as needed for Hospice care. He is involved with patient care meetings, is available for consultation and may visit Hospice patients in their home and in care facilities. Dr. Bell has been with St. Luke's Hospice for over 20 years. He also serves as the Medical Director for St. Luke's Palliative Care.
Physician support
Support for Dr. Bell is of key importance to the Hospice team. Dr. Tracy Reittinger provides that support with extensive end-of-life healthcare experience. Dr. Reittinger visits Hospice patients in their home and in care facilities. Michele Jones-McLeod, MSN, ARNP is the Hospice Nurse Practitioner. Michele visits patients where they reside for routine care and recertification visits.
Nursing staff
St. Luke's Hospice Nurses focus on providing comfort measures, effective symptom management and compassionate care for patients and their families. The nurses are your primary contact for any medical questions or needs as they will work closely with your physician. Hospice nurses are available 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
Social workers
Hospice Social Workers assist patients and their families by providing counseling and support. They maintain patient dignity through support of their cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds. They also provide bereavement support to the family after a loved one’s death for up to 13 months.
Chaplains
St. Luke's Hospice Chaplains are available to meet the spiritual needs of our patients and their families. Chaplain services are non-denominational and optional. Patients and families may choose to receive support from their own clergy.
Hospice aides
St. Luke's Hospice Aides are available for personal care and one-on-one assistance. They will help with bathing, feeding, small household chores and more. Their goal is to help you and your loved one with your everyday needs.
Therapists
St. Luke's Hospice provides several therapies as needed to patients. Our massage therapist is available to help release tension in the muscles for patients and provide a form of relaxation. Music therapy and art therapy are also available upon request to bring added relief where needed.
Volunteers
St. Luke's Hospice Volunteers use their interests, skills and experience to comfort and enrich quality of life for patients and families. Hospice Volunteers advocate for patients and families by being compassionate listeners and willing supporters. Visits are scheduled to match a patient’s individual needs.
