PediPal Massachusetts
When a child is diagnosed with a serious illness, they and their family need extra support for the journey ahead. In Massachusetts, they find it at PediPal, HopeHealth’s pediatric palliative care program.
Where Care Is Compassion
HopeHealth PediPal exists to give Massachusetts families the expertise and compassion they need when their child is navigating a serious, life-limiting illness.
We help your child with all the challenges of their illness, from easing the toughest physical symptoms to working through big emotions. We’re also here for you and your family, from help with medical decisions to one-on-one emotional support.
Our goal is to be your advocate, your care partner, and your support system for a better quality of life. We provide these services at no cost. Your child may still receive other treatments toward a cure while receiving our services.
To learn more, call (844) 671-4673 or email our team.
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Our Team
The HopeHealth PediPal team includes:
- Pediatric palliative doctors
- Pediatric palliative nurses
- Child life specialists
- Social workers
- Chaplains
All of these individuals have been all selected and trained to work with children of different ages and developmental levels, and their families.
We work together to provide comprehensive palliative care, while ensuring that your child and family feel empowered, understood and supported every step of the way.
Our Services
Individualized care & case management
Our services are customized to suit your family’s unique needs, from the specifics of your child’s medical care to finding other ways to support your family.
This includes:
- Skilled pain and symptom management
- Nursing and social work assessment
- Child life specialists (developmentally appropriate preparation and education for your child about their health journey)
- Case management
- Advance care planning
- IEP support (help with your child’s education plan)
- Respite reimbursement
Holistic therapies
In addition to conventional medical care, HopeHealth PediPal offers a range of holistic therapies for your child and family — designed to soothe the soul and uplift spirits.
This includes:
- Music therapy
- Art therapy
- Pet therapy
- Dance and movement
- DIRFloortime (support for special developmental needs)
- Massage
- Reiki
Non-medical support
Living with a serious illness affects almost every aspect of a child and family’s well-being. HopeHealth PediPal provides emotional support, guidance and a listening ear for every member of the family.
This includes:
- Psychosocial support, including special support for siblings
- Spiritual care
- Bereavement care for the family
Where We Help
HopeHealth PediPal is available to children and families in our service area (see service area map).
Our services are primarily provided in-home. If needed, we also offer virtual options, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for families.
Who is eligible for PediPal services?
Every child residing in Massachusetts who is diagnosed by a physician with a potentially life-limiting illness is eligible for the HopeHealth PediPal program.
There are no restrictions based on life expectancy. Admission to the program is open to all children, regardless of gender identity, race, ethnicity, language, sexual orientation, or ability to pay.
Children enrolled in PediPal may still receive other treatments toward a cure while receiving our services.
What do the PediPal services cost?
All services provided by HopeHealth PediPal are offered at no cost.
How to Make a Referral:
HopeHealth PediPal accepts referrals from anyone who is concerned about a child facing a serious illness.
This includes:
- Family members and loved ones
- Healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses and other members of the team
- Other professionals working with the child’s family
To refer a child or request information, call (844) 671-4673.
Have Questions?
To contact us:
- Call the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Community Support Line at (800) 882-1435. Interpreter services are available. Or,
- Reach out to HopeHealth PediPal directly at (844) 671-4673.
We’re here to help you understand the services that may be available for your child and family, and provide support for the journey ahead.
