A research institute for the study and treatment of bereavement is in the works for Lafayette - a first-of-its-kind in the United States. A research institute for the study and treatment of bereavement is in the works for Lafayette - a first-of-its-kind in the United State. Professors at UL Lafayette, LSU and Tulane have signed on to do research at the National Institute for Education and Research in Bereavement, as it's being called. "The envisioned program will provide researchers a place and support to study, develop and expand education," a Friday press release from Hospice of Acadiana says. "The institute will serve as a national focal point for anyone who has questions about bereavement and/or needs resources to address questions, issues or concerns."
The proposed National Institute for Education and Research in Bereavement will encompass methodologies, techniques and technology that are more than those generally provided by hospice organizations; although the hospice model will serve as a centerpiece for exploration. It is envisioned that university partners will play a major role in creating, developing and operating the Institute. University partners could utilize the proposed institute for development of student interns, fellowships and publishing research as well as developing curriculum for professionals that could merit education credits and/or certification programs.
The proposed facility will be housed in 4,000 square feet of unused space at the Hospice of Acadiana office, according to HOA CEO Ric Trout. Two main areas of focus initially will be military veterans and victims of the Gulf oil disaster. Trout says the final step before seeking grants to fund the program is approval by the Hospice board of directors.