Collaborative program adds an extra layer of individualized care for long-term care residents facing complex medical issues

Nazareth Home, in collaboration with Pallitus Health Partners, a part of Hosparus Health, has announced the implementation of a new complex disease management program known as HELD — Helping Embrace Life Decisions.

The HELD program supports Nazareth Home residents who have extreme or complex medical situations that require the attention and expertise of multiple health care providers. HELD brings together experts in the fields of geriatrics and complex disease management to develop an individualized plan that focuses on the unique healthcare needs of the Nazareth Home resident. It emphasizes closer monitoring of patients and engaging earlier in symptom control so individuals can discuss their goals and options, as well as identify a meaningful healthcare plan that can improve their quality of life for a longer period of time.

“The HELD program aligns with Nazareth’s Home commitment to be forward-thinking in how we deliver compassionate care, especially to those who are facing more complex situations with their health,” said Mary Haynes, president/CEO of Nazareth Home. “This is really the next generation of care to empower the elder with complex diseases to have more control over their goals, their care options, and ultimately the plan on how they want to live out their best life.”

The program includes a team of consistent providers, including staff members from both organizations, along with Dr. Tyler McQueen, a geriatric medicine specialist with Pallitus Health Partners. McQueen meets with Nazareth Home residents on a weekly basis concerning quality of life decisions during their critical time of need.

McQueen is part of Hosparus Health and the Central Louisville clinical team. He earned his medical degree from the University of Virginia School of Medicine and completed his residency in internal medicine at Wake Forest School of Medicine in North Carolina. He then completed fellowships in geriatric medicine and hospice and palliative medicine at Wake Forest. He is board-certified in internal medicine, geriatric medicine, and hospice and palliative medicine, and is a member of the American College of Physicians.

“This partnership, one of the first of its kind in our area, is an innovative, person-centered approach to caring for those with serious illness. As a provider of palliative care, we offer an extra layer of support that is consistently shown to improve quality of life for those with the most complex or advanced health conditions. We remain committed to meeting patients where they are and finding new ways to help them make the most of each day. Our collaboration with Nazareth Home is a natural extension of our mission,” said Bethany Snider, chief medical officer of Pallitus Health Partners.

Pallitus Health Partners offers comprehensive palliative care for serious illness in Kentucky and Indiana. Specialized services include chronic symptom and medication management, disease education and care coordination.