The Power of Palliative Care
- May 1, 2025
- 2 min read
In Humboldt County, getting care isn’t always easy. Long distances, limited specialists and transportation challenges can make it difficult for people with serious illnesses to get the help they need.
For those managing complex health issues at home, the stress can be overwhelming, especially for families trying to hold everything together on their own.
That is why Hospice of Humboldt created the Home-Based Palliative Care (HBPC) program in 2022. HBPC is designed for people living with serious illnesses who may still be pursuing treatment or are not ready for hospice. The focus is on comfort, symptom relief and practical support, helping people live as fully as possible while navigating complicated health challenges.
Our palliative care team visits patients in their homes, wherever they live, whether it is a house, apartment, RV or shelter. We help manage pain, shortness of breath, fatigue and other symptoms that can interfere with daily life. We also help patients and families understand their medical options, make care decisions and access resources that reduce stress and improve quality of life.
We have helped people stay out of the hospital, avoid unnecessary ER visits and remain safely at home. For one patient, that meant finally getting her pain under control and receiving a walker that allowed her to move around without falling. For another, it meant coordinating care so he could take a short trip to the coast with his partner, something he did not think was possible.
Today, HBPC serves about 65 patients each day. With growing demand and increased support, we are preparing to double that number, aiming to reach 130 patients daily and up to 280 patients annually. This expansion will allow us to serve more families with the same level of personalized, compassionate care that defines our work.
As the only palliative care program in our county offering face-to-face visits in the home, we know this work is essential. Palliative care is not just about managing illness, it is about helping people live with comfort, clarity and support through whatever comes next.
