Continuing Education Strengthens Compassionate End-of-Life Care

Advanced practice nurses gathered at Gregory’s in Somers Point last week for a complimentary Dine & Learn focused on A Holistic Approach to End-of-Life Care. Sponsored by NJHealth Hospice and Palliative Care and Rothkoff Law Group, the evening brought professionals together to explore meaningful ways to support patients and families through one of life’s most personal transitions.

Chelsea Duckers, BSW, CSW, CECC, Care Coordinator and Certified Death Doula

Chelsea Duckers, BSW, CSW, CECC, Care Coordinator and Certified Death Doula with Rothkoff Law Group, presented “A Dignified End: A Discussion with a Death Doula.” Her discussion highlighted the value of thoughtful planning, respectful communication, and support that honors each person’s goals, values, and dignity.

Karen Dennery Melita, MMT, MT-BC, Director of Music Therapy,

Danielle Pace, LMT, MMP, EOLD, CDP, Licensed Massage Therapist,

Karen Dennery Melita, MMT, MT-BC, Director of Music Therapy, and Danielle Pace, LMT, MMP, EOLD, CDP, Licensed Massage Therapist, presented “Tuning In: Individualized Care Through Music Therapy and Massage Therapy.” Representing NJHealth Hospice and Palliative Care, they shared how individualized, non-pharmacological therapies can promote comfort, connection, and quality of life.

Why Continuing Education Matters

Continuing education gives healthcare professionals opportunities to expand their knowledge, learn from specialists, and discover approaches they can apply in practice. In hospice and palliative care, where every patient and family has different needs, ongoing learning helps clinicians remain responsive, informed, and compassionate.

Educational events like this also strengthen professional relationships across disciplines. When nurses, care coordinators, doulas, therapists, legal professionals, and hospice teams exchange ideas, they build a broader network of knowledge and support. That collaboration can help create more coordinated, person-centered experiences for those facing serious illness and end-of-life decisions.

Thank you to the presenters, sponsors, and advanced practice nurses who took part in this important conversation. By continuing to learn together, healthcare professionals can continue to provide care that respects the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.