BY JON CRONIN
Editor
Jamaica Hospital Medical Center has announced plans to create a $1 million renovation of their hospice care unit, the Ferrera Family Center for Hospice Care.
The new unit, set to begin construction in the fall, will be a complete overhaul with 10 rooms and provide a more comfortable space for patients and families that ensure privacy and serenity. Other rooms will include common areas like lounges and family meeting rooms in order to create a more home-like surrounding for patients and their families.
Additional space in the unit includes common areas, such as lounges, family and meeting rooms for relaxations and reflection, in efforts to create a home-like environment for everyone.
The hospital opened their initial hospice unit in 2010 which offers extensive medical, social and spiritual services.
“As a community-based hospital we have made a commitment to provide the highest quality hospice care services to all those who need it,” stated Bruce J. Flanz, Jamaica Hospital president and CEO.
A hospital spokesperson cited the organization’s commitment to the community was the inspiration. The unit’s redesign will provide patients and loved ones with a home-like environment that promotes privacy and serenity. The new unit will offer many upgrades and amenities including family meeting rooms as well as a relaxing lounge that offers families a space to gather, decompress or reflect.
“Every detail from the lighting to the tranquil artwork will be carefully considered to offer our patients and families a sense of peace” said Dr. Alan Roth, chairman of Family Medicine and Palliative Care.
He added, “As hospice professionals, we understand how important a comfortable environment is during what can be a difficult time.”
In order to reach their $1 million goal the hospital is creating a capital fundraising campaign. They already boast numerous supporters with generous contributions through name opportunities and the purchasing of memorial plaques.
The hospital is also embarking on a fundraising campaign to provide for the complete renovation and is more about providing the most comfortable space for patients and families.
The hospital has also hosted a successful bake sale where employees and visitors purchased goods in support of the new hospice unit.
Reach Editor Jon Cronin at 718-357-7400 x125, jcronin@queenstribune.com or @JonathanSCronin.
