Little Butterflies Program
Childhood is precious, no matter how long it may be. At Hospice Brazos Valley, we cherish our
youngest patients – infants, children and adolescents living with incurable illnesses – and surround them with expert medical care and nurturing support. Our specialized pediatric program provides family-centered hospice care services at home and in the community.
What is pediatric hospice, and how it it differently than adult care?
With our Little Butterflies Program, pediatric patients are able to continue receiving curative
treatments while enrolled in hospice care, with an additional focus on relieving symptoms and
managing pain. Families can also continue receiving home health assistance from other providers.
With the Little Butterflies Program, each child receives an individualized care plan to meet specific
needs, hopes and goals. The plan addresses the medical, nursing, psychosocial and spiritual needs
of the child and family, emphasizing quality of life.
The Program Includes
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Focused Pediatric Care- Specialized care from physicians, nursing, social work, HCA’s, chaplains and volunteers. A holistic approach to care including, development, nutrition, medication, mobility, pain, respiratory issues, psychosocial stages and end-of-life.
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Nursing- Hands on care from palliative certified nursing who provide regularly scheduled visits and on call 24/7.
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Home Health Aides- Provide assistance with personal care and activities of daily living.
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Spiritual Support- Non-denominational spiritual and emotional support for the patient and family.
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Social Work- Provide support for the entire family while assisting with community resources and memory making.
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Volunteer Services- Quality services that can incorporate, pet therapy, music, companionship, memory making and more.
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Bereavement- Specialized, compassionate support from our bereavement team for all family members.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this mean my child needs to stop current curative
treatments?
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No, unlike adults receiving hospice care, anyone under the age of 21 can receive curative treatment (i.e chemotherapy) for their disease while also receiving hospice.
I am comfortable with my current pediatric team, will I have to change to a different
physician?
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No, we encourage your current pediatric physician remain PCP to support you and your child. Our physicians and team of clinicians will partner with your physician to coordinate the care that is right for you and your child.
I am unsure if I can afford this service, what are my options?
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As the only non-profit hospice in the Brazos Valley, we are committed to seeing that everyone has the best end-of-life care possible, even for those without resources to pay for their care. Hospice Brazos Valley is entrusted with resources to help offset costs and bring peace and comfort.