Healthcare Professionals

Medical Director:  Frank Joe Rinella, HMDC, DO

Hospice Physician:  Kathryn Kolonic, HMDC, DO

Our Physicians 

Both Doctor Rinella and Doctor Kolonic have their Hospice Medical Director Certification. HMDC is completely voluntary and is an additional specialty that affirms a knowledge and experience base for hospice practitioners. It signifies that our doctors are committed to career development and dedicated to patient and family care, the functioning of the interdisciplinary team, the sustainability and health of the hospice, and the credibility and profile of the field at large. 

Working Together

With the new Medicare Hospice Conditions of Participation, it’s important for the physician and the hospice to understand the needs and care of the individual. The hospice appoints one physician to be the Medical Director and oversee the medical component of the hospice plan of care for each patient. The hospice Medical Director, and other members of the interdisciplinary team must collaborate with the patient’s attending physician, communicating the patient’s wishes and status.

When is the Right Time to Refer to Hospice?

The earlier the patient is referred to and receives hospice care, the more opportunity there is to manage pain and symptoms, enhance quality of life, and provide support to their loved ones.

Why Mt. Hood Hospice?

We are a not-for-profit organization where our bottom line is you! Mt. Hood Hospice is able to do same-day admits. We provide high quality compassionate care and have low staff-to-patient ratios. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an information visit, please feel free to call 503-668-5545 – 24/7.