Fresno, Calif.-based home health company Compassionate Care is entering the hospice market after receiving a license and accreditation from their home state and the Accreditation Commission for Health Care. 

The privately held company’s hospice business is branded as Compassionate Care Hospice of Central California, LLC. Corporate leaders decided to step into hospice in order to capitalize on rising demand and to provide a more comprehensive continuum of care for their home health patients, including smoother transitions into hospice when they become eligible.

“We have done exceptionally well in the home health sector and realize that patients and their families want a comfortable transition when they’re ready for end-of-life care,” Compassionate Care co-founder and chief operating officer Nick Sanchez said. “Our new hospice services give patients and their families the unique ability to utilize Compassionate Care for their at home skilled needs; the last chapter of our lives is just as important as the first chapter, we want to be there for you or your loved one’s final chapter.”

While launching this new hospice service, Compassionate Care is continuing to build up its home health portfolio, pursuing statewide expansion throughout California. In mid-July, they opened a new home health office in Bakersfield, bringing their services to an additional county.

Compassionate Care provides in-home medical, rehabilitative and support services.

Hospice utilization among Medicare decedents in California reached 46.1% during 2018, compared to a national average slightly higher than 50%, according to the National Hospice & Palliative Care Organization. Utah has the highest utilization in the country at 59.4% 

“We have assembled an incredible team of clinicians who demonstrate palpable compassion and provide unparalleled comfort and relief for those in need of end of life care. Our team has worked tirelessly to build a system of care that focuses on quality of life and a peaceful transition. Our team also provides support to grieving families during their most difficult time – they are basically angels. Hospice is a sacred and privileged space; we do not take this calling lightly,” Compassionate Care co-founder and CEO, Shawn Kaleka said. “We are immensely humbled by this significant milestone in our journey and look forward to a meaningful future continuing to serve our community.”