Vermont Hospice Study Summary of Findings Released

In Vermont, hospice use is particularly low. National Medicare hospice utilization trend data through 2012 indicated that Vermonters were less likely to use hospice services than residents of other states, and they used fewer days of care.

To explore more deeply why the hospice use rate in Vermont is among the lowest in the nation, the UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospice (VNA) of Chittenden and Grand Isle Counties’ Madison‐Deane Initiative commissioned the Vermont Hospice Study, with support from the UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospices of Vermont and Coverys Community Healthcare Foundation. The Madison‐Deane Initiative is a program to transform end-of‐life care through education, collaboration and inspiration.

This study was guided and overseen by a Study Advisory Committee that included physicians, hospice agency staff, policy makers, consumers, and faith communities. Committee members from diverse backgrounds and regions of Vermont were recruited to include perspectives on local cultural norms and healthcare.

This brief report highlights findings from the six-month Vermont Hospice Study conducted between April 1 and September 30, 2015.

To download a copy of this report, click here.

A presentation of the findings and release of the full report will be held on Tuesday, November 10 at 2:30 pm at Capital Plaza in Montpelier.  Click here to sign up for this presentation,