Katharine Ponzillo, MD

Kate Ponzillo, MD, is the Medical Director of Palliative Care Services. 'Quality of care from my perspective means honoring each patient by aligning the health care team's goals with the patient to achieve the best quality of life possible during chronic or serious illness,' says Dr. Ponzillo. Palliative care is specialized medical care for people with serious illness, and the goal is to relieve symptoms and stress for the patient while improving quality of life. Dr. Ponzillo and her team offer the following services to patients and families: symptom management in chronic illness (shortness of breath, anxiety, nausea, and pain), family education and communication support, advanced care planning, planning for goals of care. Patients often need a physician referral or recommendation to receive palliative care services, but insurance does typically cover these services. In her spare time, Dr. Ponzillo enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening and biking. Dr. Ponzillo's practice is part of BJC Medical Group, a well-established, multi-specialty physician group.