Monday, July 13, 2009
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Presbyterian Hospice & Palliative Care (PHPC) is pleased to announce Kraig Russell, MD, as the program’s new medical director. PHPC has been providing Charlotte and surrounding communities with inpatient and outpatient hospice and palliative care for over 20 years and offers the only hospital-based inpatient hospice unit in
Charlotte.
In his role with PHPC, Dr. Russell provides medical direction for all patients receiving hospice and palliative care, whether at home, in the hospital or long-term care facility, or on Presbyterian Hospital’s Harris Hospice Unit. By collaborating with primary and specialty care physicians, Dr. Russell provides a smooth transition into hospice or palliative care, ensuring continuous medical management of new or existing health conditions.
“End of life is often a very difficult time for patients and their families,” said Dr. Russell. “As a physician providing end of life care, I have the incredible opportunity to deliver hope, compassion and comfort to help individuals maintain the highest quality of life possible.”
Most recently, Dr. Russell served as an associate medical director for hospice at the Cleveland Clinic, where he also practiced hospital-based palliative medicine. Dr. Russell received his doctorate of medicine from Indiana University, is board-certified in internal medicine, and is fellowship trained in hospice and palliative medicine.
“The expertise and experience that Dr. Russell brings to this role will add another dimension to the quality of care that we provide,” said Kim Darden, director of PHPC. “He will be instrumental as we carry out our mission of meeting the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of our community and those requiring end of life care.”
To learn more about Dr. Russell and the services provided by Presbyterian Hospice & Palliative Care, call 704-384-6478 or visit www.presbyterian.org/hospice.
