Odyssey HealthCare of Rhode Island

Barbara Thomson Brock

From the positive experiences of family members with other hospice services, our family had expected Odyssey Hospice of Rhode Island to provide at least a modicum of compassion and caring for our loved one and for the family. Instead, we found a large measure of apathy and insensitivity toward our mother and those family members who lovingly cared for her. To be fair, there were a couple of professional staff members who were most kind, but, they were few and far between. I don't know how my family's last encounter could possibly have been less considerate or respectful. The night Mom passed, my family notified Odyssey Hospice, which sent out a nurse who simply asked for the time of death, how they knew she was dead, and for the controlled substances. They were not asked if she could do anything for them or for Mom or even if she could pay her respects or examine Mom. I could not in good conscience recommend this particular Hospice. I would not want anyone to endure so many instances of insensitive treatment. I sincerely hope that this appraisal of their services will come to their attention because it could represent an opportunity to provide more training, add more staff, or to do whatever might be necessary to change their service for the better. From our experiences, we know that Hospice can be quite comforting. We've had friends and family who sing the praises of other hospices. Believe me when I say that I would much rather be writing a letter of praise. I hope to one day see a positive critique of Odyssey Hospice of Rhode Island.