In this episode of the Voices of Hospice Leadership Podcast, Brian Frantz sits down with Rachel Rankin, part owner and medical director of Bosque Trails Hospice in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Rachel shares the story behind launching Bosque Trails Hospice after experiencing firsthand how corporate ownership can change both the employee experience and the way patient care is delivered. Her team set out to create something different: a local, grassroots, clinician-led hospice built around individualized care, strong values, and deep connection to the community.
Rachel explains what sets Bosque Trails apart, including direct owner involvement, board-certified hospice and palliative physicians, home visits, and a willingness to think creatively when care can be better aligned with a patient’s goals. She shares real examples of “outside the box” hospice care, from complex symptom management at home to advocating for equipment and support that helps families maintain dignity, comfort, and connection.
The conversation also explores a topic that deserves more attention: why families are often referred to hospice too late. Rachel addresses common myths, including the false idea that hospice means giving up or that hospice hastens death. She offers practical insight into the signs families should watch for, what clinicians can do to start earlier conversations, and how patients and loved ones can advocate for themselves when they need more support.
Another powerful theme in this episode is culture. Rachel shares why Bosque Trails believes that caring well for employees leads directly to better patient care. From hiring carefully to listening to staff ideas and supporting autonomy in the field, the team has built a culture that strengthens both clinical excellence and family trust.
This episode is a valuable listen for hospice leaders, healthcare professionals, referral partners, and families who want a better understanding of what hospice really is, when it may be time, and what good end-of-life care should feel like.
What You’ll Learn
- Why Rachel Rankin and her partners started Bosque Trails Hospice
- What makes clinician-led hospice care different
- How Bosque Trails supports patients in more individualized ways
- Why employee support is critical to excellent care
- The biggest myths people still believe about hospice
- Why families are often referred too late
- Signs it may be time to ask for a hospice evaluation
- The rights patients and families have when choosing or switching providers
- How hospice supports loved ones during care and through grief