A profile of hospice programs in Pennsylvania.

The annual survey reports by the Pennsylvania Hospice Network allow a longitudinal look at programs in Pennsylvania from 1985 to 1987. Comparisons are made of data on the programs, on hospice patients, on services provided, on bereavement care, and on volunteer involvement. Findings consistent over the three years suggest profiles of "typical" programs, patients, and care provision. Changes in reported data which may indicate trends are noted. Differences between programs which were Medicare certified or accredited by the Joint Commission for Accreditation of Hospitals are observed as are differences between certified or accredited programs and others.