Visiting Nurse Home Care & Hospice Welcomes New Hospice Administrator, Kim DeSanctis, FNP

September 8, 2025

Conway, NH — Visiting Nurse Home Care & Hospice of Carroll County and Western Maine is pleased to announce the appointment of Kim DeSanctis, MSN, FNP, as its new Hospice Administrator. With more than two decades of experience in nursing, case management, and primary care, DeSanctis brings both clinical expertise and deep compassion to her leadership of the agency’s growing hospice program.

DeSanctis, who resides in Stoneham, Maine, began her healthcare career at just 17 years old. Over the years, she has worked in diverse settings, including medical-surgical nursing, case management, home health, and as a Family Nurse Practitioner in Primary Care. She credits her time in hospital case management—where she supported patients transitioning safely from hospital to home—as one of the most formative experiences preparing her for hospice leadership.

“Hospice has always been a passion of mine, even if it doesn’t show up in a straight line on my resume,” DeSanctis explained. “Whenever there was a hospice patient in my care, I always volunteered to be involved. It’s the best service available to families facing one of life’s most difficult times, and too many people don’t realize it’s even a benefit they’re entitled to under Medicare.”

A Clear Vision of Hospice Care

When asked how she defines hospice, DeSanctis is quick to emphasize that it is not about “giving up” or a signal of imminent death, as many people mistakenly believe.

“Hospice is not an immediate death sentence,” she said. “It’s about surrounding patients and families with support—medical, emotional, and spiritual—so they don’t have to go through this alone. Hospice includes nurses, aides, social workers, and chaplains who all come together to help people live with dignity, comfort, and peace. For caregivers especially, having that support can make an enormous difference.”

DeSanctis also underscored the importance of early access to hospice. “Too often, people come to us very late—sometimes only days before a loved one passes. Families and patients benefit so much more when hospice is introduced earlier. They get to know the team, establish trust, and receive the full range of services we offer.”

She distinguishes hospice from palliative care—another program offered by the agency—as a natural continuum of support. “Palliative care is a bridge. It helps patients who have serious illnesses but are not yet at the end of life. When the time comes, they’re already familiar with the services and know what hospice can offer.”

Why Visiting Nurse Home Care & Hospice

Although she had not previously worked directly with Visiting Nurse Home Care & Hospice, DeSanctis said she was drawn to the agency’s reputation and its people.

“I had always heard it was a wonderful organization, and when I arrived, I saw right away why,” she said. “The staff are incredibly supportive of one another, they communicate beautifully, and they truly care for their patients. On my second day, I attended the staff appreciation gathering and immediately saw the camaraderie and warmth in the room. It’s rare to find that combination of teamwork and mission-driven care.”

She was also impressed by the agency’s structured collaboration. “Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, the team comes together to review skilled patients, and Thursdays are dedicated hospice days. The communication is the best I’ve ever seen—and good communication is the foundation for successful patient care.”

What She Brings to the Role

As Hospice Administrator, DeSanctis looks forward to combining her clinical background with her commitment to hands-on patient care. While she will oversee the program administratively, she also intends to remain actively engaged with patients through co-visits and direct support.

“I love that this role allows me to both lead and continue caring,” she said. “Being able to see patients in their homes, to support their families, and to work side-by-side with our nurses and social workers is exactly the balance I was hoping for.”

She also brings a strong desire to build partnerships across the community. Already, she has begun meeting with local organizations such as the Mount Washington Valley Adult Day Center to better understand the resources available for patients and families. “Collaboration is essential,” she noted. “No single agency can meet all the needs on its own, but together, we can create a stronger safety net for families.”

A Community Resource for All

For DeSanctis, hospice is about much more than medical care—it’s about presence, compassion, and easing the burden on families. “When patients are at home, they’re more comfortable, more relaxed, and more themselves. Hospice lets us care not just for the patient, but for the entire family,” she said. “I feel so fortunate to step into this role with a team that shares that philosophy.”

Executive Director Sandy Ruka, RN, MSN, expressed enthusiasm for the appointment:
“Kim’s unique blend of experience as a nurse, nurse practitioner, and case manager, combined with her heartfelt commitment to hospice, make her an outstanding addition to our leadership team. We are confident that under her guidance, our hospice program will continue to grow and provide exceptional care for the communities we serve.”

About Visiting Nurse Home Care & Hospice of Carroll County and Western Maine

Visiting Nurse Home Care & Hospice of Carroll County and Western Maine provides compassionate, high-quality home health, hospice, and palliative care to the Mount Washington Valley and surrounding communities. The agency’s mission is to support patients and families in living their best lives at home through skilled nursing, therapy, and end-of-life care services.

For more information about hospice or to inquire about services, please contact Visiting Nurse Home Care & Hospice at 603-356-7006 or www.vnhch.org/services/hospice.