Philosophy

We, the hospice staff of Kaiser Permanente Foundation Hospital, believe death is a natural part or and necessary closure to life as we know it. It is our philosophy that dying persons have the potential to learn, teach, console, enjoy, plan and laugh during this period of living.

Individuals, by right, have the option to becoming informed about their disease, treatment, prognosis, and alternatives available to them. Patients should be the primary participants in the decision-making process. They have the right to accept or refuse treatment and should be supported in their choice. We acknowledge the special role of the family, as they have much impact on the patient's daily life and are charged by any member's loss.

Responses by hospice staff must be appropriate and acceptable according to each family's unique lifestyles, values and wishes. Supportive help must be available during adjustments to the illness and in the times of grief bereavement.

We subscribe to the holistic approach concerning the physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs of the patient. We support individual integrity in a gentle and skilled manner.

We acknowledge the importance of collaboration among all members of the health care team, which will promote an environment of mutual trust, respect, and support.