Compassionate Care in a Home-Like Setting

Introduction

Nestled in the peaceful campus of Avera Prince of Peace Retirement Community in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Dougherty House stands as a beacon of compassionate end-of-life care. Officially known as Dougherty Hospice House, this facility at 4509 S Prince of Peace Pl, Sioux Falls, SD 57103, offers a unique blend of expert medical care and home-like comfort. As we delve into the details of this specialized hospice care center, we’ll explore how Dougherty House is setting new standards for end-of-life care in the Sioux Falls area.

Facility Overview and Location

Dougherty House, part of the esteemed Avera Health network, has been serving the community since 2000. Key features include:

• Location: 4509 S Prince of Peace Pl, Sioux Falls, SD 57103
• Setting: Peaceful campus with emphasis on scenic views and natural lighting
• Capacity: 130 beds
• Average Occupancy: 101.7 residents
• Occupancy Rate: 78%

The facility’s design focuses on creating a serene and uplifting environment that supports the diverse needs of residents and their families during a challenging time. Its location on the Avera Prince of Peace Retirement Community campus ensures a tranquil setting while maintaining access to comprehensive medical resources.

Care Services and Living Options

Dougherty House specializes in providing around-the-clock hospice care in a home-like setting. The facility offers three distinct levels of care to meet varying needs:

1. Acute Care:
   • Addresses intense pain or complex medical needs
   • Ideal for patients requiring close medical supervision
2. Respite Care:
   • Five-day care option for caregiver relief
   • Covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and some insurance plans
3. Residential Care:
   • Extended hospice care for those choosing to reside at Dougherty House
   • Medical costs typically covered by insurance, with separate billing for room and board

Each private patient suite includes:

• Adjoining family area for comfort and privacy
• Home-like design with necessary medical technology
• Option for in-suite meal service

The facility’s approach to care is highly personalized, with skilled hospice nurses and patient care technicians available 24/7 to ensure resident comfort and well-being.

Amenities and Lifestyle

Dougherty House offers a range of amenities designed to enhance the quality of life for residents and provide comfort to their families:

Spiritual and Emotional Support

• Meditation room for quiet reflection
• Chaplain services for spiritual care
• Over 90 pieces of original art throughout the facility, conveying messages of hope and comfort

Dining and Nutrition

• Private dining rooms for family meals
• Flexible meal options, including in-suite dining
• Daily menu choices and snacks available

Comfort and Relaxation

• Living room for gatherings
• Four-seasons sun porch
• Children’s play area for visiting families
• Resource library

Outdoor Spaces

• Beautiful meditative garden for peaceful reflection and fresh air

Additional Amenities

• Wireless internet access
• Open visitation policy
• Small refrigerator in each suite

The facility’s design philosophy emphasizes creating a soothing environment that supports both residents and their families during a difficult time. Natural lighting, open views, and thoughtful touches like artwork contribute to a peaceful atmosphere.

Unique Aspects of Dougherty House

Several factors distinguish Dougherty House from other hospice care facilities:

1. Home-Like Environment with Medical Expertise: Dougherty House strikes a delicate balance between providing a comfortable, residential setting and offering advanced medical care. This approach allows residents to receive expert care in a less clinical atmosphere.
2. Comprehensive Family Support: The facility’s design and amenities, such as adjoining family areas in patient suites and dedicated spaces for children, demonstrate a commitment to supporting the entire family unit during the end-of-life journey.
3. Spiritual and Emotional Focus: With features like a meditation room, chaplain services, and carefully curated artwork, Dougherty House addresses the spiritual and emotional needs of residents and families alongside physical care.
4. Flexible Care Options: By offering acute, respite, and residential care, Dougherty House can accommodate a range of hospice needs, from short-term pain management to long-term end-of-life care.
5. Avera Health Affiliation: As part of the Avera Health network, Dougherty House benefits from the resources and expertise of a larger healthcare system, potentially offering more comprehensive and integrated care.

Recommendations for Prospective Residents and Families

1. Schedule an In-Person Visit: Given the importance of atmosphere in hospice care, an in-person tour is crucial. During your visit:
   • Observe the overall ambiance and cleanliness
   • Take note of staff interactions with residents
   • Visit a patient suite to assess comfort and amenities
   • Spend time in common areas like the meditation room and sun porch
2. Discuss Care Plans in Detail: Understanding the approach to care is vital. Ask about:
   • The assessment process for determining the appropriate level of care
   • How care plans are developed and adjusted
   • The qualifications and experience of the nursing staff
   • Protocols for pain management and symptom control
3. Inquire About Family Support Services: Hospice care affects the whole family. Ask about:
   • Counseling services for family members
   • Policies for family stays and visits
   • Support groups or resources for bereaved families
   • How the facility helps families navigate end-of-life decisions
4. Understand the Financial Aspects: Clarify all costs and coverage options:
   • Request a detailed breakdown of what’s covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance
   • Inquire about out-of-pocket costs, especially for residential care
   • Discuss any potential additional charges for specialized services
   • Ask about financial assistance programs if applicable
5. Explore Spiritual and Emotional Support Options: For many, this is a crucial aspect of end-of-life care. Inquire about:
   • The availability and role of the chaplain
   • How the facility accommodates different religious or spiritual practices
   • Options for music or art therapy
   • How staff are trained to provide emotional support
6. Discuss Pain Management and Comfort Care: This is often a primary concern in hospice care. Ask about:
   • The facility’s philosophy on pain management
   • Available treatments for symptom relief
   • How staff assess and respond to changing comfort needs
   • Options for alternative or complementary therapies
7. Inquire About Personalization of Care and Space: Understanding how Dougherty House can accommodate individual preferences is important. Ask about:
   • Options for personalizing patient suites
   • Flexibility in daily routines and meal times
   • How cultural or personal preferences are incorporated into care plans
   • Policies on bringing personal items or mementos

Conclusion

Dougherty House offers a specialized and compassionate approach to hospice care in the Sioux Falls area. Its unique blend of home-like comfort and expert medical care, coupled with a strong focus on emotional and spiritual support, positions it as a standout option for end-of-life care.

The facility’s affiliation with Avera Health, its range of care levels, and its thoughtfully designed environment demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive support during a challenging time. The emphasis on creating a peaceful, uplifting atmosphere through natural lighting, artwork, and dedicated spaces for reflection sets Dougherty House apart in the realm of hospice care.

However, as with any healthcare decision, thorough research and personal evaluation are crucial. The limited availability of resident reviews underscores the importance of in-person visits and detailed discussions with staff. Prospective residents and their families should take advantage of tours, ask comprehensive questions about care approaches and costs, and carefully consider how Dougherty House aligns with their specific needs and values.

For those seeking a hospice care option that prioritizes dignity, comfort, and holistic support in the Sioux Falls area, Dougherty House presents a compelling choice worthy of serious consideration. Its unique features and commitment to creating a nurturing environment for both residents and their families make it a noteworthy option in the local hospice care landscape.