MedWest Health System opened its new $3.4 million inpatient hospice unit in Haywood County, The Homestead, with an open house and dedication ceremony in March.

The Homestead is a new six-bed facility that offers specialized end-of-life care to patients and their families. It is the only inpatient hospice facility west of Asheville. The Homestead is staffed by a team of experts including physicians, nurses, social workers, nursing assistants, a music therapist, and spiritual and bereavement counselors. The Homestead is open to patients with a physician’s referral from across the region.

The Homestead has accommodations for family gatherings and meals, outdoor activities, and a memorial garden. Long-term plans include expanding to 12 beds and construction of an end-of-life outreach center, which will provide counseling and bereavement services, a resource library and a community education program.  828.452.8811.