#United States #St. Petersburg #Hospice Services #End-of-Life Care #VITAS Healthcare

VITAS Healthcare Expands Its Hospice Services to Pinellas County

VITAS Healthcare, the nation’s premier provider of hospice and palliative care, has announced an exciting expansion into Pinellas County, Florida, effective November 14, 2025. This move is set to benefit countless residents, allowing them access to compassionate end-of-life care from a trusted name in the industry.

A Commitment to Quality Care

With nearly five decades of experience in the field, VITAS has built a reputation as Florida's most accessible hospice and palliative care provider. By now operating in 60 out of 67 counties across the state, the organization has ensured that they are within reach of the majority of Florida’s population. This latest expansion will enable residents in cities such as St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Tarpon Springs to receive specialized care tailored to their individual needs, right in their own communities.

Mark Hayes, Senior Vice President of Operations for VITAS, emphasizes the company's dedication to enhancing access to high-quality hospice services. He states, “We value the trust that our patients and families place in our care. We're proud to bring the same compassionate support that VITAS is known for across Florida to this new region.” This statement reflects VITAS’s goal of providing families with peace of mind during a challenging time.

Services Offered

VITAS Healthcare's model of hospice care includes a wide array of services designed to address the specific circumstances of each patient. Some key offerings include:

• - Around-the-clock clinical support: Ensuring that patients and their families have access to qualified medical staff whenever needed.
• - Individualized care plans: Each patient’s care is tailored to meet their unique preferences and medical requirements.
• - High-acuity care options: For patients with more complex health issues, VITAS provides specialized services to manage their conditions effectively.
• - Broad medication access: Their open formulary allows for a greater range of treatment options aimed at improving patient comfort.
• - Home medical equipment delivery: Smooth transitions from hospitals to homes are facilitated by the provision of necessary medical equipment.

This comprehensive approach not only enhances patient care but also fosters a sense of trust and reliability between healthcare providers and the families they serve. Last year, VITAS provided care for more than 52,000 hospice patients across the state, culminating in over 5.2 million days of dedicated service.

Community Impact

As Florida anticipates a growing senior population—currently representing 22% of all residents—there is an urgent need for accessible healthcare options that cater to this demographic. It’s in response to this demand that VITAS continues to expand its services, recently having begun operations in Marion County in May 2025 and now, with the addition of Pinellas County, is better positioned to serve the west-central coast.

By collaborating closely with local healthcare providers, VITAS ensures continuity of care, which is essential during such sensitive times. Their commitment is evident in the daily care of more than 15,000 patients statewide, thanks to a robust workforce of over 6,000 professionals.

Mobile App and Resources

To further facilitate their services, VITAS Healthcare has developed a mobile app. This app allows easy submission of referrals and provides invaluable resources related to hospice eligibility, education, and locations. Furthermore, referrals can be made 24/7—ensuring that help is always just a call away at 800.93.VITAS or through the VITAS website at vitas.com/refer.

VITAS Healthcare exemplifies the kind of compassionate care that is so vital during one of life's most challenging moments. With this latest expansion into Pinellas County, they reaffirm their commitment to quality end-of-life care while encouraging families to explore the resources available to them.

Conclusion

The addition of hospice services in Pinellas County marks a significant milestone for VITAS Healthcare and the communities it serves. By extending their reach throughout Florida, VITAS proves its unwavering resolve to provide quality care and support for families in need of compassionate end-of-life services. Visit VITAS.com for more information on services, career opportunities, and ways to get involved.