UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital is proud to announce a new partnership with Hospice of Dubuque to enhance its existing palliative care program through added advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP) support.

This collaboration builds upon a strong foundation of inpatient palliative care at Finley Hospital.

“This partnership is not the creation of a new program, but an investment in strengthening the exceptional care already in place,” said Karil Walther, Chief Nursing Officer at Finley Hospital. “By expanding provider availability, the program will be better positioned to meet the growing needs of patients and families navigating serious illness.”

Through this partnership, Hospice of Dubuque’s ARNP providers Paul Gothard, Shelby Kronlage, and Jessica Steger provide on-site support to Finley patients. The purpose of this partnership is to continue to support patients in understanding their illness and making informed care decisions. The shared vision is to ensure patient wishes, goals, and choices are identified and honored at any stage of illness. A soft rollout of the enhanced services began January 5.The additional clinical support helps to strengthen continuity of care and promote smoother transitions for patients who may benefit from Hospice of Dubuque services following a hospital stay.

“Our shared goal remains the same,” said Lavonne Noel, Executive Director at Hospice of Dubuque. “We are committed to supporting thoughtful, patient-centered conversations about quality of life and helping individuals receive care that aligns with their values and goals.”