Bereavement services: practice and problems.

Abstract

Hospice bereavement services vary widely and are often loosely defined. This paper describes the results of a survey on the form and function of hospice bereavement services completed by NHO Provider Member hospices. It explores issues related to staffing, training, size, services provided, and service priorities. Additionally, data collection and research, referrals, funding, risk assessment, obstacles programs face and the limitations that are inherent in hospice structures are examined. These important elements are presented along with a discussion of critical issues and recommendations for future research and study.