Big Bend Hospice Expands Its Mission and Services Across the Florida Panhandle
Beginning in January 2026, Big Bend Hospice will expand into Jackson, Calhoun and Gulf counties to bring compassionate end-of-life care to more North Florida families.
By Cristal E. Baer, MBA, Community Educator Manager, Big Bend Hospice
Big Bend Hospice announced a significant milestone in its mission to provide compassionate, high-quality end-of-life care across North Florida. Beginning in January 2026, hospice services will expand into Jackson, Calhoun and Gulf Counties, marking the first phase of a thoughtful, long-term effort to ensure individuals and families throughout the region have access to the care and support they need.
For more than 40 years, Big Bend Hospice has supported patients and families during some of life’s most tender moments, delivering comfort, dignity and guidance. The expansion into Jackson, Calhoun and Gulf Counties extends that legacy to additional communities, particularly rural areas where access to hospice and end-of-life care can be limited.
“Our teams have already begun building relationships with providers, facilities and community partners to better understand the unique needs of each community and to ensure the introduction of BBH services is thoughtful, seamless and rooted in compassion,” said Bill Wertman, CEO of Big Bend Hospice.
This growth represents the first step in a broader, long-term commitment to the Florida Panhandle. While the immediate focus is on delivering exceptional hospice care, the expansion also creates opportunities for future service growth that will further strengthen support for individuals and families throughout the region.
The expansion underscores Big Bend Hospice’s ongoing promise to serve as a trusted source of comfort and stability for those facing serious illness. By building strong, collaborative relationships with community partners, Big Bend Hospice aims to ensure that residents of Jackson, Calhoun and Gulf Counties have access to compassionate, high-quality care during life’s most vulnerable times.