Dr. Judy Setla has been with Hospice since 2001 and became our Medical Director just a year after starting when her predecessor, Dr. Joel Potash, retired. While we have been so lucky to have Judy in this role for so long, it has come time for her to take a step back and lessen her hours as she enjoys her personal time. As we mentioned in our last article, Dr. Setla’s position of Medical Director will be taken over by the wonderful, and talented Dr. Julie King. We asked Dr. Setla some questions to get her perspective after all these years. Let’s hear what she had to say!
Why did you choose this field to work in – Hospice care and/or Medical Doctor?
Working at Hospice was a bit of an accident. My primary care office in Baldwinsville was being closed and, after 14 years of practicing that type of medicine, I decided to try something different. I wanted to gain some greater knowledge of pain management and end of life care and I thought I would eventually return to primary care. People assume end of life care is depressing, and it is certainly sometimes very sad, but I find end of life work to be both challenging and gratifying. I also appreciate working with the nurses, social workers, chaplains, LPNs and support staff that make Hospice click every day. Their dedication and creativity in meeting the needs of patients and families in their homes makes the work truly enjoyable.
What’s something you wish more people knew about Hospice care?
Hospice care can be as much or more important for the caregivers and others around the terminally ill person. Having end of life professionals available for advice and support 24/7, including home visits by members of the hospice team, is an enormous relief for caregivers even as they continue the hard work of caring for a dying loved one.
Reflecting on your experience at Hospice, how would you describe it?
In many ways, Hospice work is liberating. In the Hospice model, we have the luxury to focus only on the of goals of the patient and family in whatever time a person has left. The Hospice model legally REQUIRES an interdisciplinary approach. We have nurses, social workers, aids, LPNs, chaplains , and doctors available to address whatever suffering the patient and family might have. We don’t always succeed, but I feel privileged to work with people who try so hard to get it right.
We know you’ll still be working as a Hospice physician, just with fewer hours and responsibilities. Do you have any plans for what you’re going to do with your extra time?
Savor it.
Do you have a favorite quote or life philosophy that has guided you?
Actually, I love quotations. Here are a few of my favorites:
- “People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they’re not on your road doesn’t mean they’ve gotten lost.” – Dalai Lama
- “Just showing up, doing what you said you would do, when you said you would do it, is most of the job.” – paraphrased…Susan Conover, Hospice of CNY Social Worker, retired.
- “If you aren’t breaking the rules, you aren’t doing your job.” – Layne Hamilton, Hospice of CNY Social Worker, retired.
To read the complete Winter 2022 Newsletter, click here.