Starting November 3, residents across Pinellas County, including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, and nearby areas, will gain better access to high-quality hospice care. VITAS Healthcare, the nation’s leading provider of end-of-life care, is expanding its services to meet the needs of patients and families in Florida’s west-central coast.

For years, many families in Florida have struggled to access proper hospice support. Research shows that only about 61 percent of Medicare decedents in the state use the Medicare Hospice Benefit. This means countless patients spend their final days without the full medical, emotional, and spiritual comfort they deserve.

VITAS is determined to change that by ensuring that more people can experience peace, dignity, and compassion during life’s most delicate moments.

Care That Puts Patients and Families First

At the heart of VITAS’ approach is a commitment to individualized care. Each patient receives a personalized plan crafted by an interdisciplinary team that includes physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers.

The organization provides 24/7 access to clinical support and high-acuity care for patients with complex medical needs. It also ensures inclusivity by respecting cultural, religious, and personal values in every care plan.

Beyond standard hospice services, VITAS offers specialized programs designed to address unique needs. These include cardiac care certified by the American Heart Association, veteran support services, and grief counseling for families.

Thoughtful Touches That Make a Difference

VITAS believes that meaningful gestures can ease emotional pain. Families can request Memory Bears made from a loved one’s clothing, or participate in the Life Bio™ project, which compiles personal stories into a keepsake booklet. Patients also have access to personal pampering such as massage therapy and hair care.

Volunteer programs like Paw Pals®, featuring comforting pet visits, and Musical Memories, which brings music into care settings, add warmth to the experience. These simple yet heartfelt touches help families find comfort and connection in times of loss.

A Message of Compassion and Community

“Pinellas County deserves end-of-life care that honors each patient’s values and wishes,” said Kathleen Coronado, vice president of operations for VITAS. “We’re grateful for the warm welcome and proud to soon offer compassionate care to patients and meaningful career opportunities to professionals who feel called to serve.”

To support this expansion, VITAS is hiring across clinical and non-clinical roles including nurses, hospice aides, social workers, chaplains, and community representatives. Recognized as a 2025 Top Workplace in Healthcare, the organization invests in continuous learning and professional growth.

With its entry into Pinellas County, VITAS Healthcare is not just bringing medical expertise, it is extending comfort, compassion, and hope to families navigating one of life’s most profound journeys.