Moving Healthcare Forward Podcast

Normalizing the conversation around end-of-life care with Dr. Marianne Holler

VNA Health Group Episode 8

On today's episode of Moving Healthcare Forward podcast, Dr. Holler talks about her experience with patients and their families who are dealing with chronic and terminal illnesses. Yes, this may sound like a scary and depressing topic, but Dr. Holler sheds light on this very taboo subject and explains the beauty of palliative and hospice care when approached in a thoughtful and timely manner.

This episode is full of inspiring and informative information about the meaning and beauty (yes, beauty) of treating serious illness and end-of-life care. Dr. Holler shares uplifting stories about her patient’s experiences of having comfort, joy, and peace with the inevitable. Dr. Holler also shares her powerful story about what called  her to med school at age 40 (you read that right, 40!)  


In this episode, you’ll hear: 

  • How we can destigmatize discussions surrounding the topic of death 
  • The real difference between palliative care and hospice care 
  • How to create a peaceful end-of-life experience for a loved one 
  • How to know when it is time to make the transition from palliative care to hospice care
  • Why Dr. Holler views her work as inspiring, not depressing
  • Why completing the POLST form is so important to end-of-life -care. Visit VNAHG.org to download this form. 
  • The importance of bereavement counseling 


This is an important conversation around one of the many ways we at VNA Health Group are Moving Healthcare Forward. If you are in need of palliative or hospice services please call 1-800-200-2345. Please have a listen.