Hospice care is often called end-of-life care, and hospice nurses are tasked with keeping patients comfortable, instead of providing treatments that extend their lives. Generally, a hospice nurse is assigned to patients who have six or fewer months left to live.

The hospice nurse is a vital part of the Smoky Mountain Home Health and Hospice team. 

All hospice nurses must be licensed in the State of Tennessee. Many of our nurses are also certified hospice and palliative care nurses (CHPN).

A hospice nurse cares for people who have been diagnosed with six months or less to live and have chosen hospice care at the end of life. As part of the hospice philosophy of care, a hospice nurse focuses on comfort and quality of life. They provide individualized care based on each person’s unique needs.

Our Owner and Founder 

Tammy Francis, RN, CDE, started Smoky Mountain Home Health and Hospice in 1982 literally out of the trunk of her car. After completing nursing school, she soon realized that many frail, elderly and home-bound people really want to stay at home in their later years to receive health care services. At that time, there were not many options available for in-home care services in rural communities like Newport, Tennessee, much less woman-owned small businesses.

Since 1982, Ms. Francis continues to manage the agency on a daily basis and as an on-call nurse continues to be accessible to patients and their families. Tammy is married to Don “Jabo” Francis, who owns Jabo’s Pharmacy in Newport. They are very active in the community and their church.

Our Team

Our team includes a physician, registered nurse, medical social worker, Chaplain, home health aide, volunteer, and other specialists if necessary. Together, the team addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of you and your family.

Our Locations 

We proudly serve 13 counties in East Tennessee

Corporate Office
222 Heritage Blvd
Newport, TN 37821

Phone: 423-623-0233

Office Locations

• Newport
• Knoxville East
• Knoxville West
• Morristown
• Greeneville
• Tazewell
• Kingsport

Flexible Schedule 

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We are a Family ❤️️

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It's a Calling 

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