Windber Hospice at Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber celebrated the reopening of its Somerset inpatient hospice facility with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by community leaders, healthcare representatives, supporters, and members of the Children’s Aid Society Foundation on May 22.
The reopening is significant for patients and families in Somerset County and the surrounding region who rely on compassionate end-of-life care. The facility will offer inpatient hospice services in a comfortable setting, addressing a gap that arose after its closure during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Originally established in 2009, the Somerset facility is expected to begin welcoming patients in the coming weeks once it receives final approvals from Medicare and the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Windber Hospice has continued to serve local families through home-based care since the closure but now expands its offerings by restoring an inpatient option for those needing additional support.
Richard Sukenik, CEO of Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber, acknowledged those who made the reopening possible. “We are grateful to the Children’s Aid Society Foundation, the Wheeler family, and the many supporters who helped bring this project to life,” Sukenik said. “This reopening restores an important resource for families who need compassionate care close to home and reflects our continued commitment to providing patient-centered care throughout our region.”
During the event, Dr. Kelly Warshel, Hospice Medical Director, highlighted how essential accessible inpatient hospice care is for area residents. “The availability of local inpatient hospice care provides families with comfort, support, and specialized symptom management when needs become too great to manage at home,” said Dr. Warshel. “Having this option available within the community is incredibly meaningful for both patients and their loved ones.”
The reopened facility features ten private patient rooms along with spaces designed for families. It offers comprehensive services such as symptom management; around-the-clock nursing; medical oversight; emotional and spiritual support; social work services; bereavement resources; and family education.
After the ceremony concluded, attendees toured the updated space during a public open house where they learned about available services as well as volunteer opportunities.
