Her clinical expertise, combined with her background in strategy and innovation, will play a pivotal role in guiding our clinical operations. We anticipate that her return will enhance the exceptional care we provide to patients facing serious illness or nearing the end of life.

“We are so excited that Dr. Krutka has returned home to western Colorado and HopeWest. Dr. Krutka brings such depth of experience in providing quality service to our hospice and palliative care patients and their families,” said HopeWest President and CEO Cassie Mitchell. “Additionally, Dr. Krutka is a strategist who will work diligently with our healthcare community to provide accessibility, education, and support.”

After completing a Hospice and Palliative Medicine fellowship at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 2012, Dr. Krutka spent the first part of her career at HopeWest, where she developed a hospital-based palliative care consultation service at St. Mary’s Hospital while also practicing hospice. In 2015, she moved to Utah where she served in various leadership roles focused on expanding access to Serious Illness solutions at a local, regional, and national level.

Dr. Krutka’s work has been recognized nationally among her colleagues for her efforts in advancing the field of Hospice and Palliative Care through a combination of clinical expertise and business strategy. In 2019, she was named a Fellow of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. This honor is achieved by members whose professional activity is devoted to the practice of Hospice and Palliative Medicine.

“HopeWest is very near and dear to my heart, and I am excited to rejoin the team,” said Dr. Krutka. “I look forward to contributing to its legacy, community focus, and commitment to service. I especially look forward to being a part of a team that prioritizes patients and their families.”