PCHPCA 2020 REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY - Putnam County Hospice and Palliative Care Association (PCHPCA)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 03/17/2021
Greencastle, Indiana. The Board of Directors of the Putnam County Hospice and Palliative Care Association (PCHPCA) announced its annual report to the community and described both challenges and achievements in 2020. The work of PCHPCA focuses on increasing the quality of life for seriously ill persons and their loved ones, caregivers, and healthcare providers by educating people in Putnam County about the benefits of hospice and palliative care and of having conversations about end-of-life wishes. “Our work is always challenged by the sadness and discomfort people experience when thinking about death and dying,” said Charity Pankratz, Vice President. “In addition, the pandemic prohibited in-person activities and events.”

In spite of these challenges the Association accomplished meaningful work.

PCHPCA updated the website, pchpca.org, to include more information and links to resources and materials.
The Association conducted research on effectively communicating about hospice, palliative care, and advance care planning and is using the information to update communications and create new educational materials.
In partnership with Parkview Health System and University of Southern Indiana, the Association sponsored a two-day workshop, Respecting Choices First Steps Advance Care Planning Facilitator Certification Training. Eighteen community members completed the training and offer free Advance Care Planning assistance. Interested persons can see the list of facilitators on the Association’s website, pchpca.org and the Putnam County Hospital’s website, www.pchosp.org.
The Association began developing a Vital Medical Information File, a system to improve access to critical medical information, including advance directives, for patients, loved ones, healthcare providers, and emergency response personnel.

The Putnam County Hospice and Palliative Care Association is a nonprofit, public charity that operates with the help of donations, financial support from the Putnam County Community Foundation, and fiscal sponsorship by the Putnam County Hospital. For more information contact Elaine Peck, Director, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.pchpca.org.