In 1997-1998, when interest in palliative care lacked in Italy, the Foundation’s Chair, professor Emanuele, decided to create a Hospice. Having performed feasibility studies and completed the plans, a ward of ten beds for terminal cancer patients was opened in a private nursing home in Rome in 1999. Subsequently the home was entirely converted into a Hospice.Whereas care in the Hospice was formerly funded entirely by the Foundation, an agreement for treatment has now been reached with the Lazio Region’s Health Service. However, in order to ensure that excellence is maintained, the Foundation still finances additional services, doctors, psychologists and paramedical personnel.
To date over 6.600 patients have received care in the Foundation’s Hospice which currently has a staff of 220, supported by the voluntary workers of the AVC S. Pietro ever since the Hospice was opened, who daily assist terminal patients (30 in the Hospice and 120 in their home in the city and since 2009 in the seaside area of Ostia), those with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis ( 3 in the Hospice and 6 in their home) and senior citizens with Alzheimer (70 either in the day centre or in their home). All assistance to patients in completely free of charge.