By Paris Jackson

EUGENE/SPRINGFIELD, Ore. -- Scared Heart Medical Center received nearly $100,000 to expand palliative care services in Lane County.

This will help some of Lane County's most ill patients who battle a serious diesase find comfort. Unlike hospice care, palliative care focuses on the management of pain and discomfort.

RiverBend is leading the way in palliative care in Lane County and the state.

The Regence Foundation says the grant will help Scared Heart continue its work in providing inpatient palliative treatment, while expanding access to the community.

"What we want to do is encourage them not only to continue that work internally, but now begin the work to with local community groups, caregivers and others to help them understand that the abatement of symptoms and the management of symptoms associated with with serious disease can be provided," said Regence Foundation Chairman Michael Alexander.

As result of the grant, RiverBend estimates more than 1,000 patients will benefit.