SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., - The Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership (NHPCP) honored William Packard, MD of Scottsbluff at its annual banquet this month. Dr. Packard received the 2007 Spirit of Hospice Award, recognizing his commitment and dedication to the hospice philosophy of care. Prairie Haven Hospice of Scottsbluff nominated Dr. Packard, where he serves as medical director.

“Dr. Packard has been a dedicated advocate for patients at the end of life. He consistently treats his patients with respect, honesty and compassion,” said Linda Rock, executive director of Prairie Haven Hospice and Chair of NHPCP’s Operations Committee. “I have heard Dr. Packard say many times, ‘There are many things we can do to our patients; we must always focus our care on what we can do for our patients.’”

Dr. Packard has served as Medical Director of hospice programs in the Nebraska panhandle for nearly 30 years. Initially, he implemented and directed an inpatient palliative care service at West Nebraska General Hospital, a one of a kind program in our state in the late 1970-1980s. When that program was discontinued he fought for and succeeded in seeing that a home care-based hospice service was developed. Over the years he has served as Medical Director of West Nebraska General Hospital Good Shepherd Service, Regional West Medical Center Hospice Services and for the last 10 years as Medical Director of Prairie Haven Hospice.

“The Spirit of Hospice Award is given annually to those that have promoted quality hospice care in their community. Dr. Packard exemplifies the spirit of hospice and we are proud to present him with this award,” said Jonathan Krutz, executive director of NHPCP.

Also recognized at the event was Kim Schledewitz. She received recognition as “Outstanding Nebraska Hospice Volunteers” for her work at Prairie Haven Hospice.

NHPCP is a collaborative effort of more than 60 organizations with an interest in good care for terminally and chronically ill Nebraskans. Established as a 501(c)3 community betterment non-profit in 1983, NHPCP includes all 35 Nebraska hospices, 14 community end-of-life coalitions, and over a dozen other statewide organizations.

Prairie Haven Hospice is located in Scottsbluff, Neb with offices in Alliance and Kimball. For more information, please call toll free at (877) 699-7794 or (308) 630-1149.