LA Jewish Health and all of its programs, including Skirball Hospice, recognize and share in the concerns surrounding COVID-19, in Los Angeles County. The safety and health of our staff, patients and their loved ones is our greatest priority. Skirball Hospice continues to work with and follow all recommendations by local, state and federal agencies, and will continue to adapt to the guidance provided. These are unprecedented times for our community and we want to ensure you have the most up-to-date information and resources to support you.

These frequently asked questions provide information about safety protocols for staff, patients and families under our care.

Is Skirball Hospice still open and accepting new patients?

  • Quality end of life care is needed more than ever during COVID-19. As an essential health care program, Skirball Hospice continues to fulfill our mission and core values by delivering excellent, personalized care to all people regardless of religion, ethnicity or ability to pay.

Is the hospice team able to visit during COVID-19?

  • While there are precautions and restrictions in various care settings, our entire team: Doctors, nurses, hospice aides, social workers, spiritual counselors and bereavement specialists continue to be ready to respond to our patients and family’s needs.
  • Skirball Hospice has evaluated various staff visit protocols to decrease
    COVID-19 exposure risk for patients and families and partnered with care communities to collaborate on care delivery options during COVID-19.
  • We are also incorporating the use of tele-health visits when needed and appropriate to meet patient and family care needs and support.

What steps is Skirball Hospice taking to ensure patient safety during in person staff visits?

  • Skirball Hospice staff will continue to adhere to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) established screening protocols to assess the risks of infection prior to each patient encounter and incoming referral.
  • Our team members continue to follow all universal safety precautions and incorporate local, state and federal guidance regarding personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • We are also incorporating the use of tele-health visits when needed and appropriate to meet patient and family care needs and support.

Does Skirball Hospice accept patients who are positive with COVID-19?

  • Hospice eligible patients who have COVID 19 will be assessed based on their terminal disease process. Our staff will be informed of the patient’s COVID status and reminded of the appropriate steps to take in order to curb the spread of the virus.

Does Skirball Hospice test for COVID-19?

  • Our team will seek consent for testing from our patient and their family members if there is suspected COVID 19 exposure.

Do hospice patients with known or suspected COVID-19 infection require hospitalization?

  • COVID-19, like any other infection, requires an individualized approach to care that will be evaluated and directed by the Hospice physician.
  • Our goal is honor the patient’s care plan wishes while ensuring their
    needs can be properly managed in their desired care setting.

Can I volunteer for Skirball Hospice during the pandemic?

  • Skirball Hospice is still eagerly seeking volunteers. If you’re interested,
    please click here to apply.
  • While some hospice volunteer opportunities have changed during the pandemic, the need for additional help and support has never been stronger.

What resources do you recommend for additional COVID-19 Information?

During these difficult and trying times, Skirball Hospice and LA Jewish Health are here to provide the support that you need. Please do not hesitate to contact us at 818-774-3040 with any questions or concerns. We are in this together!

To view updates from LA Jewish Health, please click here.