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HospiceCare, Inc. Focus Group Series Executive Summary Methodology Chamberlain Research Consultants (CRC) contributed a series of four focus groups held in June, July and August of 1997 to determine public knowledge of Hospice and elucidate concerns and suggestions for an in-patient care facility in Madison. CRC's trained personnel recruited the participants using a Hospice client list as well as a list generated randomly from the phone book. The groups were recruited so that each group would provide a different level of community involvement and volunteering. Capsule Summary Participants have high respect for the work Hospice does. They are very supportive of the development of an in-patient facility which would serve as respite center, symptom and pain management center and a place of last resort to die. Many feel that one of the greatest attributes of Hospice is its ability to help the family and patient plan and make the most of the time they have left. They feel this is Hospice's best kept secret. They agree that a successful public education campaign could promote better and earlier use of the services Hospice can offer. CRC recommends that HospiceCare, Inc. pursue the development of an in-patient facility. Summary Points 1. Despite the great variety of participants and varying levels of awareness of Hospice services, almost all agree that there is a need for an in-patient facility. 2. Even those most familiar with the organization feel that more education is needed in the community about what Hospice does and how it is funded prior to an all-out campaign to raise funds for this facility. 3. Almost all of the participants have been touched by Hospice somewhere in their experience, whether that be an immediate relative, extended family, friends or hearsay. 4. Most describe the ideal in-patient place as peaceful, with opportunities to walk and exercise, prepare food, and accommodate relatives and children. Parking and available transportation are very important. The specific location is less important than the accessibility to the facility and to get outside the facility for relief. Participants prefer a facility that is small, private and comfortable for family. Respite care is a very important component of the new facility. 5. Most feel that nursing homes are for longer term care and are where you go when no one wants you anymore. Hospitals are sterile and depressing for a person with terminal Chamberlain Research Consultants Page 1