GENTLE SHEPHERD HOSPICE INC
Provider Information
ROANOKE, VA 24019
CMS Quality Ratings
Composite score combining quality measures and patient survey results.
Based on the CMS Hospice Care Index — 10 operational quality indicators including visits near death, nursing minutes, and care transitions.
CAHPS Hospice Survey — family caregivers rate communication, symptom management, respect, and overall experience.
Quality of Care derived from CMS Hospice Care Index (dataset 252m-zfp9). Patient Satisfaction from CMS CAHPS Survey (dataset gxki-hrr8). Overall is the equally-weighted average of both. All source data published by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Gentle Shepherd Hospice Inc
Gentle Shepherd Hospice Inc serves families throughout the Roanoke, Virginia area. They provide end-of-life care focused on comfort and dignity. Being located on Peters Creek Road, they are easy to reach for local residents. The team works hard to support patients during their final months. It is about making every day count. They have been certified by Medicare since May 1995. That is nearly three decades of experience in the field. Here is the thing—finding the right partner for your loved one is a major decision. You want a team that truly listens to your needs. This provider focuses on bringing peace and relief to families in Botetourt and beyond. They offer a range of hospice services designed to help you navigate this difficult transition with grace and care.
About Gentle Shepherd Hospice Inc
Gentle Shepherd Hospice Inc operates as a for-profit hospice provider. Being a for-profit entity means they are accountable to specific operational standards set by CMS. They earned their Medicare certification back in 1995. That longevity shows they have been a steady presence in the community for a long time. Families should know that Medicare certification is not just a label. It means the provider meets strict federal rules for safety and care quality. What most people do not realize is that all Medicare-certified hospices must offer the same basic services. This includes nursing care, medical equipment, and grief support. The difference usually lies in the team culture and their response time. You should always feel comfortable asking how their staff handles after-hours calls. That is a big deal when you need help in the middle of the night.
Quality Performance
Understanding Hospice Care in Roanoke
Roanoke families have access to several hospice options. Hospice is not a place you go. It is a type of care that comes to you. Most patients receive these services in their own homes. Some stay in nursing homes or assisted living facilities. The goal is always the same. They want to manage pain and improve quality of life. The thing is, many families wait too long to call for help. They think hospice is only for the very final days. That is simply not true. You can get support for six months or even longer if your doctor agrees. Starting early means you have more time to build a relationship with the nursing staff. It gives you a safety net when things get tough. Lean on them. That is exactly what they are there for.
What to Ask When Choosing a Hospice Provider
You have the right to choose the best fit for your family. Do not be afraid to ask hard questions. Start by asking how quickly a nurse can get to your home in an emergency. You also want to know who will be on your primary care team. Will you see the same nurse every week? Consistency matters. Ask about their experience with your loved one’s specific health condition. Some providers have extra training for certain illnesses. And ask how they support the family after a loss. Grief support is a key part of hospice care. It shows they care about the whole family, not just the patient. Take notes during your talk. It helps to have the answers written down when you are feeling overwhelmed.
Preserve Your Family Stories
Your loved one has a unique history worth remembering. Capture their voice, wisdom, and favorite memories now so they can be shared for generations to come.
Start Your StoryOther Hospice Providers Nearby
Helpful Guides for Families
What Does Medicare Cover for Hospice Care?
Confused about medicare hospice coverage? Discover exactly what is covered, how to manage costs, and navigate your benefits with our simple, expert guide.
How to Choose a Hospice Provider: A Family’s Complete Guide
Feeling overwhelmed? Our hospice selection guide helps you compare providers, understand Medicare benefits, and make the best choice for your loved one today.
10 Essential Hospice Questions for Evaluating Providers
Evaluating hospice care for a loved one? Use these 10 essential hospice questions to interview providers and ensure your family receives the best possible support.
Preserve their story while there's time
Many families in this stage find comfort in capturing their loved one's life story. A guided memoir project can become a meaningful part of the care journey, giving your family something lasting to hold onto.