A Concurrent Care Program
Supporting Families, Honoring Every Moment
United Kids is a compassionate approach to caring for infants, children, teens, and young adults who are living with life-limiting illnesses. This is an additional layer of support focusing on enhancing quality of life while providing physical, emotional, spiritual, and practical support for the child and their family. The specialized pediatric interdisciplinary team works collaboratively with all existing providers and care team members to identify the needs and goals of the child and family, with a specialized lens focused on comfort, dignity, and preventing hospitalizations whenever possible.
United Kids services include:
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- Physician services for palliative care
- Pediatric trained registered nurses, social workers, spiritual support counselors
- Home health aides and volunteers
- Music, play, art, pet, and massage therapies
- 24/7 registered nurse availability for phone calls and visits
- Collaboration with all existing providers to ensure seamless communication regarding goals of care
- Ongoing education and guidance for all those involved in the child’s care
- Bereavement services
Who We Serve
Anyone under the age of 21 diagnosed with a life limiting illness such as:
- Genetic or neurological disorders
- Severe congenital abnormalities
- Cancer and other progressive illnesses
- Rare or complex childhood conditions
- Many other disorders or conditions that impact the child’s quality of life
Understanding Concurrent Care
Concurrent care allows for both palliative services and curative or specialized treatments to occur simultaneously, improving the experience while navigating challenges. Concurrent care is available through Medicaid and most commercial insurances for children under 21 who have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness. The goal is to manage symptoms at home whenever possible, reduce hospitalizations, and maintain stability for the child and family while focusing on comfort and quality of life. Our pediatric team becomes an expert in the child’s baseline, allowing for prompt care when a change develops.
Getting Started
When Should I Reach Out?
Concurrent care can begin at any stage of the journey – whether diagnosed recently or years ago. You do not have to wait
How to Refer:
- Call us directly at 845-634-4974.
- Speak with your child’s physician, hospital care team, or social worker.
- Complete the referral form.
What to Expect Next:
At our initial consultation our team will meet with your family to review eligibility, understand your goals, your child’s needs, and their medical history.
Care Plan Development:
We will collaborate with your existing care team to create a personalized plan that complements existing therapies and treatments.
Ongoing Support:
We provide consistent, compassionate care at home, helping your family feel supported and empowered
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this hospice for kids?
While we have children enrolled in hospice, concurrent care is primarily a palliative approach focused on quality of life for the child and family
Do I need a doctor's referral?
No, anyone can refer a child to our program. We review each case individually and work with insurance providers when necessary.
Can a child graduate?
Absolutely! While we help prepare for the worst case scenarios, our goal is to join the child’s journey towards health.
I am pregnant and was told my baby has a scary condition, can you help?
Yes, please give us a call and we will talk with you, help you understand comfort measures, and be ready to support you during and after birth.
I want to learn more, but don't want to sign up yet. Can someone come meet with my family?
Yes, we can come out to discuss United Kids, our services, and how our program operates. There is no commitment, and if you do agree to have your child admitted, you can revoke services at any time, for any reason.
The United Way
Unity: A dedicated team working in harmony with each child’s existing providers to ensure care that is seamless, consistent, and centered on what matters most.
Nurture: A compassionate commitment to comfort, connection, and enriching the quality of life for every child and family we serve.
Illumination: Honoring each child’s unique journey by bringing light to their story, celebrating their life in all its depth and beauty.
Trust: Built through presence, transparency, and unwavering support—trust is the foundation of every interaction and relationship.
Empathy: Care rooted in humanity, holding space for the full range of emotions words often cannot capture. From laughter to loss, we are here.
Dignity: A deep belief that every child’s life holds profound meaning—deserving respect, tenderness, and grace in every moment.
Whether your child is newly diagnosed or has had a long journey, we are here to support you.
History
United Hospice has been serving children and adults in Orange and Rockland Counties since 1988. We recognized that many children within our community could benefit from palliative care, but many physicians, parents, and community leaders are not familiar with concurrent care. The primary goal of United Kids is to increase awareness of concurrent care while providing support to all children who quality within our community.
Contact us:
845-634-4974
pediatrics@unitedhospiceinc.org