Voices of Hospice Leadership Podcast

Eligibility Vs Readiness: Blue Monarch Hospice’s Approach to Care, Communication, And Census Growth

Brian Frantz

Episode Summary

In this episode, you sit down with Raphael Akobundu, NP and CEO of Blue Monarch Hospice, serving families across North County San Diego. You unpack the difference between being eligible for hospice and being emotionally ready, common myths like 24/7 in-home care, and how clear communication with families and facilities reduces crisis decisions. Raphael also shares practical playbooks for reviews, referral partnerships, and what actually drives census growth in a competitive market.

Key Topics

  • Eligibility vs readiness and how to guide families through both
  • What hospice covers vs what it does not cover
  • Typical visit cadence and how it increases as needs change
  • The 24/7 misconception and how to set expectations
  • Switching hospices and discharge when patients stabilize
  • Building referral partnerships that last
  • Why medication workflows between facilities and hospices need standardization
  • Owner insights on compliance, costs, and growth

Featured Guest

Raphael Akobundu, NP, CEO, Blue Monarch Hospice
Locally owned, clinician-led hospice serving North County San Diego. Emphasis on small-team communication, right-sized caseloads, and high-touch family support.

Pull Quotes

  • “Eligibility and readiness are different conversations. Your job is to meet families where they are.”
  • “Communication and clear expectations with facilities prevent most issues before they start.”
  • “Great care is your best marketing. Reviews and referrals follow.”

Resources And Links

  • Blue Monarch Hospice, North County San Diego
  • Connect with Raphael on LinkedIn
  • Hospice Care Marketing: SEO, Maps, and Reviews Support

Show CTA For Hospice Providers

If your hospice is not showing up where families search, you are leaving admissions on the table. We help clinician-led teams strengthen Google Maps visibility, generate reviews, and turn education into referrals. Call (877) 959-5849 or visit www.hospicecaremarketing.com

Schedule your free strategy session today.

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