#USA #hospice care #Largo #VITAS Healthcare #Pinellas County

VITAS® Healthcare Opens Inpatient Hospice Unit in Oak Manor

In a significant development for residents of Pinellas County, VITAS Healthcare has opened its first inpatient hospice care unit at Oak Manor in Largo, Florida. This facility is now giving patients facing terminal illness improved access to compassionate, high-quality care, particularly those whose symptoms cannot be managed at home.

The Oak Manor hospice unit is specifically designed to meet the needs of patients and their families, ensuring a comfortable, dignified environment for end-of-life care. With a capacity to serve over 400 patients annually, the hospice unit includes 12 private rooms that provide a comforting space for families during a challenging time.

Continuous Care

VITAS Healthcare’s mission is to provide comprehensive support and continuity of care for patients suffering from terminal illnesses. The new unit operates 24/7, offering clinical services in a facility that is equipped with specialized features for comfort and safety. These include compassionate extubation services, physician-led care plans, pain management systems, psychosocial support, and bariatric beds designed for various needs. Additionally, adapted rooms for individuals with disabilities and specialized equipment further enhance the comfort for both patients and their families.

“Opening our first inpatient hospice unit in Pinellas County is a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality and compassionate care,” said Kathleen Coronado, Vice President of Operations at VITAS. “It reflects our belief that every individual deserves access to the best possible support during their final stages of life, right from home hospice care to our new hospital unit.”

The facility is conveniently located at 3500 Oak Manor Lane, making it accessible to residents in the area. A significant community event was held on March 11, 2026, to inaugurate the new unit, with local healthcare leaders, elected officials, and representatives from the Central Pinellas Chamber of Commerce in attendance.

Healthcare Growth and Future Plans

VITAS, which began offering home hospice services in Pinellas County in November 2025, has expanded its reach with this new center, which addresses the growing need for intensive medical intervention in hospice care settings. Families can now have peace of mind knowing there’s a robust support system available when home-care options are limited or require additional assistance.

Eligibility for hospice care is determined by a physician confirming that a patient has an advanced illness with a prognosis of six months or less to live. Families or doctors can request evaluations or make referrals by calling 800.93.VITAS or visiting VITAS.com, which offers year-round support.

To further foster this initiative, VITAS is actively hiring for various clinical and non-clinical roles in Pinellas County, contributing not only to patient care but also to the local economy. The organization has been recognized as a top workplace in healthcare, emphasizing its dedication to employee satisfaction alongside patient care.

About VITAS® Healthcare
VITAS Healthcare is the leading hospice provider in the United States, operating across 59 service areas in 15 states and the District of Columbia. With nearly 50 years of experience, VITAS serves over 22,000 patients each day, primarily in their homes but also through dedicated inpatient hospice units and in collaboration with hospitals and assisted living communities. Their mission revolves around providing exceptional end-of-life care tailored to the unique needs of each patient and their families. To learn more about VITAS Healthcare and the opportunities they offer, visit www.vitas.com.