Published on May 13, 2026
Read Time: 3 Minutes
Three Things to Know
- The Phelps Health Home Health and Hospice team was named a 2026 Champions of Care Winner by the Missouri Hospital Association for exceptional compassionate care across rural Missouri.
- Since 2021, the program has seen major growth, including a 333% increase in home health census and a 566% increase in hospice census.
- The team supports patients beyond clinical care by helping with home safety needs, emotional support and dignity-focused end-of-life care.
This year, more than 190 individuals and teams were nominated by their peers for going above and beyond in caring for their communities. From this group, Phelps Health is proud to announce that its Home Health and Hospice team has been named a Champions of Care Winner by the Missouri Hospital Association (MHA), recognizing their exceptional commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care across rural Missouri.
Serving seven counties including Phelps, Crawford, Maries, Pulaski, Dent, Gasconade and Texas, the team continues to redefine access to care by meeting patients where they are—regardless of geography, income or circumstance.
Since late 2021, the program has experienced significant growth, including a 333% increase in home health census and a 566% increase in hospice census. This growth reflects a strong community reputation built on trust, connection and consistent, high-quality care.
The team’s impact extends beyond clinical services. Staff routinely support patients with nonclinical needs that affect health and quality of life, helping ensure dignity, comfort and stability in the home setting. In one example highlighted during the nomination process, a team chaplain built a porch, ramp and custom casket to help ensure a patient could live and pass with dignity.
Their work also includes assisting with home safety improvements, helping secure essential household items like heating and cooling units, and providing meaningful comfort items to patients to support emotional well-being.
Patient, family and staff experiences reflect the impact of this care:
“I could not have regained my independence without them.” — Patient
“Even during the chaos of the tornado, the team followed up and checked on us. It made us feel safe and supported.” — Family member
Staff also recognize the strong culture of compassion and teamwork within the program.
“I'm grateful to work with a team who truly cares about one another.” — Staff member
Beyond patient care, the program’s strength is also rooted in a culture of teamwork and resilience, with staff supporting one another to ensure continuity of care across the region.
“Our Home Health and Hospice team goes far beyond clinical care,” said Tabatha Ransom, director of Home Health and Hospice at Phelps Health. “Our team members meet patients in some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives and respond with compassion, creativity and unwavering dedication.”
Leadership also emphasized the broader impact of the team’s work.
“This recognition is a powerful reflection of the compassion, skill and commitment of our Home Health and Hospice team,” said Keri Brookshire-Heavin, MHA, BSN, RN, senior vice president, chief operating officer and chief nursing officer at Phelps Health. “They set a standard of care that strengthens trust, deepens connection with our community and reflects our mission every day.”
The Phelps Health Home Health and Hospice team exemplifies what it means to care for the whole person. Their dedication continues to set the standard for compassionate care in rural communities, earning them recognition as true Champions of Care.
Learn more about the 2026 MHA Champions of Care program and honorees here: https://www.mohospitals.org/about/members/mha-awards/champions-of-care/
About the Missouri Hospital Association
The Missouri Hospital Association is a nonprofit association in Jefferson City that represents 135 Missouri hospitals. In addition to representation and advocacy on behalf of its membership, the association offers continuing education programs on current health care topics and seeks to educate the public about health care issues.