The Real Truth Behind a Hospice Leader

I had the chance to sit down with Melissa Meibert, the Director of Patient Care Services at Amari Home Health and Hospice in Carmichael, California. We delved into the real work and thought processes behind the world of hospice care. Many people don’t fully understand hospice, and it was truly enlightening to uncover some of its mysteries. With her diverse and rich background in healthcare, Melissa brings a wealth of experience and a deeply personal commitment to her role, shedding light on the true nature of hospice care.

Where are you from/where did you grow up?

I grew up in Fair Oaks, California.

Can you briefly summarize your career background?

I started my career as a seasonal firefighter for the Department of Forestry in California. It was during this time that I realized my true passion lay in caring for people rather than fighting fires. While I was attending night school for nursing prerequisites, I found the program impacted and difficult to get into. This led me to join the military nursing program, and I enlisted in the army. I served as a nurse in the army for eight years. After my military service, I worked in a hospital's medical-surgical unit, caring for patients with various illnesses and those recovering from surgery.

As a single mother, I sought a position that offered more flexibility to care for my children, so I transitioned into psychiatric nursing, working as an intake RN. A friend then recommended hospice nursing to me, and I have been dedicated to this field for the past 13 years. Nine of those years were spent working directly with patients as an RN, and the remaining years have been in leadership roles.

Are there any personal experiences that have shaped your commitment and passion for hospice and/or home health?

Yes, several of my family members have been in hospice care. Experiencing hospice from the family's perspective has profoundly influenced my approach as a hospice nurse. I've had the privilege of sitting beside hundreds of patients, and my favorite question to ask them is, "What is your best advice?" One answer that has stuck with me is, "Whatever the thing is, do it now!" These conversations have given me invaluable insights and advice that continue to shape my life and work today.

What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of Amari?

I love spending time with my family and grandchildren. I also enjoy golfing and traveling.

What would you like patients and families to know about home health care and/or hospice that they might not already know?

People who work in hospice do it out of love, not for the money. Nursing has a hierarchy, and the roles often seen on TV typically earn the most, such as an ER doctor or a plastic surgeon. Hospice nurses are unlike any of the others. It is a calling and requires true dedication. It's emotionally challenging, but families can trust that those who come to their homes are there for the right reasons and genuinely care about their comfort and well-being.

Are there any misconceptions about hospice that you would like to clarify for patients and families?

Many people fear hospice, believing we are there to hasten the end of life. In reality, our goal is to make patients as comfortable as possible so they can enjoy their remaining time with their loved ones. We don't force treatments or medications that will speed up the process; instead, we focus on quality of life.

What is your favorite thing about this business?

I love when we can help fulfill a patient's last wishes, like a final trip or a visit with family. It's incredibly rewarding to find out how people want to spend their last days or months and to help make those wishes come true. We’ve made people’s last wishes come true. While some prefer to spend their final moments in bed surrounded by loved ones, some have preferred to travel across country and visit all of their other family members - and we’ve made it happen!

What distinguishes Amari from other agencies?

Our team is unique because we operate as a "boutique" agency. This allows us to go above and beyond in various situations and provide exceptional support. While other agencies might say no to special requests, we are lucky to have supportive owners that empower us to say yes. They are willing to go the extra mile to ensure we have everything we need to support our patients and their families, regardless of the cost. With our "Yes" attitude, genuine compassion, and supportive owners, we have achieved even the most difficult requests. Our primary goal is to provide compassionate care to our families and patients, and we are committed to making it happen.

What are your favorite things about this field?

One of my favorite aspects is organizing and supporting patients in fulfilling their last wishes, like seeing family one last time. It's an honor to be part of these meaningful moments and to help patients spend their remaining time in the most fulfilling way possible.

Thank you so much, Melissa, for clarifying the real truth behind hospice and shedding light on its mysteries. Honest conversations like these are essential for revealing the special care and support that hospice provides. There is so much more to hospice care than people know. It isn't about accelerating death; it's about making the final moments as comfortable as possible, fulfilling last wishes, and cherishing time with family. For more information on Hospice care please visit www.amarihc.com.