Wayfinders Network
Patient Choices Vermont has launched the Wayfinders Network, a collaborative group of retired hospice nurses, case managers, death doulas and social workers who are available to help patients and families. Our collective vision is that Wayfinders will be able to help people find the right services and connect with whatever support would be helpful. For non-residents, that may include lodging and logistics. For all patients, it may include arranging caregivers, providing emotional support, and guiding the family on care of the body after death. These services supplement the assistance available on the PCV Helpline, especially where more detailed support is required.
PCV has assessed Wayfinders to ensure they have the relevant skills and knowledge to assist patients and families. All Wayfinders have training and guidance from the PCV team and other network members, and PCV in turn guides patients to appropriate Wayfinders. It will be up to the patient and family to decide whether a particular Wayfinder is a good match for them.
PCV intends to cultivate this network in order to deepen the connections between people in various roles who support those who are in their last days and months.
This program is currently in pilot project status. Make sure you sign up for PCV newsletters for updates.
Answers to Questions:
How do I find a Wayfinder? To be connected with a Wayfinder, please use the form on the PCV Contact Page.
Is the Wayfinder Service Free? Some Wayfinders are volunteers while others provide their services for a fee. It is up to the patient and family to ensure that the Wayfinder they choose is a good match, both in terms of capabilities and fees. PCV has no financial interest in the work of the Wayfinders.
Is a Wayfinder a substitute for hospice? No, the Wayfinders are not a substitute for hospice. PCV strongly recommends that all aid in dying patients be enrolled in hospice for the combination of medical, comfort and emotional support they provide.
How do I apply to be a Wayfinder? If you are interested in receiving information about becoming a Wayfinder, please fill out the form below. Please understand that the program is in its pilot stage. At the time when additional Wayfinders are being added to the network, we will be in touch with you.
How do I find a Wayfinder? To be connected with a Wayfinder, please use the form on the PCV Contact Page.
Is the Wayfinder Service Free? Some Wayfinders are volunteers while others provide their services for a fee. It is up to the patient and family to ensure that the Wayfinder they choose is a good match, both in terms of capabilities and fees. PCV has no financial interest in the work of the Wayfinders.
Is a Wayfinder a substitute for hospice? No, the Wayfinders are not a substitute for hospice. PCV strongly recommends that all aid in dying patients be enrolled in hospice for the combination of medical, comfort and emotional support they provide.
How do I apply to be a Wayfinder? If you are interested in receiving information about becoming a Wayfinder, please fill out the form below. Please understand that the program is in its pilot stage. At the time when additional Wayfinders are being added to the network, we will be in touch with you.