San Diego-based Scripps Health said in a news release it will transition its hospice service to The Elizabeth Hospice, San Diego County's largest hospice services provider.
Under the arrangement, The Elizabeth Hospice will manage Scripps Hospice staff, all of whom were offered jobs with The Elizabeth Hospice. Hospice physicians have been offered job options with Elizabeth Supportive Medical Specialists, while Scripps Hospice patients may receive care through The Elizabeth Hospice or other hospice providers, according to the system.
Scripps said it began working with patients Aug. 23 so they could make a decision on the provider they want to use, and the transitions are slated to take place between Sept. 5 and Sept. 15.
"Scripps is focused on providing as smooth a transition of care as possible for all hospice patients and is working with The Elizabeth Hospice and other hospice care providers throughout the region to ensure that happens," system officials added.
Scripps cited financial reasons in its decision to end hospice service, reports The San Diego Union-Tribune. Scripps President and CEO Chris Van Gorder told the publication, "We've lost between $2 million and $3 million per year." Scripps Hospice began in 2013.