Re: Hospice's motives illuminated by feud, May 6 letter to the editor:
Editor: Letter writer Jim Webb depicted the Hernando-Pasco Hospice (HPH) as a predatory organization interested in extending services into Citrus County merely as a means to enrich our financial condition. Within our admissions, approximately 15 percent of our patients have no ability to pay for hospice services, while many others have only partial coverage. Through our 600 employees and 800 volunteers, hospice services are provided to all, regardless of ability to pay. Simply put, without the contributions of our volunteers and donors, we would not be able to make financial ends meet.
The citizens who reside in Hernando or Pasco counties are able to utilize the end-of-life services delivered by a world-class organization. This did not happen overnight or by accident. HPH was built with the tremendous support of the communities we serve.
In the most recent reporting period, HPH achieved a 56 percent hospice utilization rate in Hernando, which is the second-highest rate in Florida. This rate is determined by calculating those who have utilized hospice services, compared with the total deaths in a service area. For Citrus, a hospice utilization rate of 34 percent was achieved, which, unfortunately, is the lowest rate in Florida. This disparity exists even though Hernando and Citrus have very similar demographics when it comes to hospice-eligible patients.
In 2003, admissions into the Citrus program were 721, compared with 1,240 for Hernando. These statistics were the basis for the HPH application to serve Citrus County to the Agency for Health Care Administration. The reasons for extending services to Citrus are apparent in the admissions figures. It is not about who serves those requiring hospice services, but rather that hospice-eligible patients and families have easy access to quality end-of-life services when needed.
HPH also reaffirms our desire to work with Hospice of Citrus County in a cooperative or collaborative service effort. Each organization brings significant resources and knowledge toward the goal of improving hospice care in Citrus County. This is the premise from which all hospices are operated and is our guiding belief, not the motivations portrayed in the letter.
-- Michael McHugh, board member, Hernando Pasco Hospice
Bittersweet memories of Timber Pines
Re: Living in Timber Pines means abiding its rules, May 12 letter to the editor, and all the residents of Timber Pines whose letters were published May 13:
Yes, we did make an agreement to follow the rules and regulations when we bought in Timber Pines, never dreaming we would be in this position. We did buy here because we didn't want boats and trailers in our neighbors' yards, or loud music or revving engines.
In case you aren't aware of it, Mr. Tavares, all of Spring Hill is a deed-restricted area. Sadly, the laws aren't enforced. To allow these things to happen shows disrespect toward others, and I would never permit any of my children to get away with it, no matter where I lived.
On a positive note, my husband and I love Timber Pines. My husband enjoys golfing and acting in the plays. He is an "ambassador" for Timber Pines, which means he shows people around if they are searching for a new home. He often cares for neighbors' houses and pets when they are away, and he was on the village social committee.
I was secretary for our village, and I used to put out a monthly newsletter. I ran a motorcade for all of Timber Pines residents to participate in the candlelight vigil the Springstead High School students held after Sept. 11, 2001. I spoke to the children and handed out awards to the students who planned it, under the name of Timber Pines. I assisted in planning a Memorial Day parade in Brooksville. My husband and I have taken on the responsibility to oversee the condition of the American flag that waves over our village.
All of these things we will miss sorely, but we know God will lead us in the direction we must go.
I do wish to let you all know there are many wonderful people in Timber Pines. We have many, many friends who support us and condemn those who are against us. The majority of residents are loving and caring people who also are hurting because we have to leave. I am asking all of you outside Timber Pines to please not take it out on them. They would love to help, but their hands are tied, as are ours.
I want to thank all of you inside and outside Timber Pines for your many telephone calls, cards and flowers in supporting us. It has lightened our burden to know there are people with warm and loving hearts.
-- Elizabeth Pierson, Spring Hill
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