Officials with Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames announced Thursday the closing of its Israel Family Hospice House at the end of this year. For the last 25 years, the Hospice Home has cared for patients at the end of their lives. Mary Greeley spokesman Steve Sullivan said Thursday the decision reflects a growing preference for in-home hospice care. The center’s in-home hospice team currently serves about 40 patients per day compared to an average of four at the hospice house. There are at times the home is empty and closed until a new patient arrives. Due to the lack of patients, costs are on the rise. Donations to subsidize the service have climbed from about $400,000 several years ago to $1 million in 2024. Even after the closure, Mary Greeley will continue hospice care through its home-based program and by offering hospice space within the hospital on Duff Avenue.Mary Greeley is also exploring a partnership with another hospice provider in the area. It has not been finalized. There will be 17 employees who work at the Israel Family Hospice House. Mary Greely officials said the employees will join the home hospice team and looking into alternative roles in the hospital for the rest of the staff. The deal to close the hospice house will be finalized next Tuesday. The Fort Dodge Baber Hospice House has been closed the last few years.