Auxiliary Makes Donation to Palliative Care Suite

gift-photo-for-web-w-cutlineThe Chester River Hospital Center Auxiliary recently made a donation to the Hospital's QuILT (Quality in Life Team) Program to support the addition of a Palliative Care Suite. The suite is designed for patient and family comfort and will benefit those dealing with end-of-life issues or life-limiting illnesses. The suite will include amenities such as a private patient room and a separate family lounge, affording patients and families privacy and access to support needed during this time.

The goal of the QuILT Program is to improve upon the quality of life for patients and their families by providing expert treatment of pain, discomfort and stress that can occur with serious and life-threatening illnesses. Madeline Steffens, RN, QuILT Coordinator, Palliative Care Services, is one of a team of clinicians at Chester River Health who coordinates and manages individualized care plans for patients at end-of-life.

Steffens commented, "Over the years, the generosity of the Chester River Hospital Auxiliary in supporting so many patient care services has been amazing. I will be forever grateful for the Auxiliary's monetary gift that will be used for the addition of the Palliative Care Suite."

Palliative care is both a philosophy of care and a system of medical care provided by an interdisciplinary team, which includes physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, counselors and a variety of therapists. Palliative care focuses on the relief of suffering, while supporting and promoting the best possible quality of life for patients facing serious life-threatening illnesses. In addition, palliative care addresses not only physical pain, but also emotional, mental, social and spiritual pain—all to achieve the best possible quality of life for patients and their families.

For more information about the Chester River Hospital System QuILT Palliative Care Program, please contact Madeline Steffens, RN, at (410)778-3300 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . For more information about the Chester River Hospital Center Auxiliary, call (410)778-3300.