How the Luminis Health Gilchrist Lifecare Institute Provides Seamless Hospice Care
When facing a serious illness, access to compassionate, high-quality hospice care can make all the difference. That’s why Luminis Health and Gilchrist have joined forces to create the Luminis Health Gilchrist Lifecare Institute expanding hospice and palliative care services across Anne Arundel and Prince George’s counties—to ensure that more patients and families receive the support they need, when they need it.
Through this joint venture, we provide expert hospice care in hospitals, senior living communities, and patients’ homes, creating a seamless continuum of care for those navigating serious illness.
A Partnership Designed to Improve Access to Care
The joint venture between Gilchrist and Luminis Health began in 2022, with the goal of expanding access to hospice and palliative care services.
“We wanted to create a smoother continuum of care so that patients don’t fall through the cracks,” explains Amy Cullison, Business Development Manager for the joint venture.
Previously, many patients faced repeated hospital visits without receiving timely palliative or hospice care, which could help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Now, Gilchrist’s embedded teams work within more medical centers and hospitals, providing palliative care consults and helping patients transition seamlessly into hospice when the time is right.
Additionally, the joint venture has expanded palliative care services at home, reducing emergency department visits and ensuring patients receive ongoing medical support outside of the hospital setting.
Caring for Patients in Senior Living Communities
The Luminis Health Gilchrist Lifecare Institute extends to senior living communities, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities throughout Anne Arundel and Prince George’s counties.
“We meet patients where they are—whether that’s at home, in an assisted living facility, or a nursing home,” says Amy Cullison. “Through community outreach, education, and collaboration with local providers, we ensure that more people understand their hospice options and receive care when they need it.”
Expanding Services to Meet Growing Needs
Since its inception, the joint venture has experienced significant growth, expanding into all zip codes in Prince George’s County as of early 2024. With this rapid expansion, the need for additional resources and staff continues to grow.
“As we expand, we are constantly working to strengthen our workforce to meet the increasing needs of our patients and their families,” says Bonnie Speicher, Director of Community Programs and Partnerships. “There are still underserved populations in Prince George’s County, and our goal is to reach as many families in need as possible.”
To support expansion, the institute is hiring for several key positions, including:
✔ Registered Nurses – Home care case managers and admission nurses.
✔ Social Workers – To provide emotional and logistical support to families.
For those looking to make a meaningful impact in hospice care, opportunities are available. Interested candidates can explore careers at gilchristcares.org/careers.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Hospice Care in Underserved Communities
One of the key long-term goals of the institute is to expand hospice and palliative care in underserved communities—particularly in Prince George’s County.
“We’ve recently expanded to all zip codes in Prince George’s County,” says Bonnie Speicher. “Many patients there have historically lacked access to palliative and hospice care, and our goal is to ensure that no one is left without the support they need.”
With continued growth and outreach, the Luminis Health Gilchrist Lifecare Institute will serve more patients, strengthen community education, and improve healthcare access for those facing serious illness.
If you or a loved one needs hospice or palliative care, we’re here to help.
Learn more at gilchristcares.org.