New role focused on helping people with serious illness live well and supporting their caregivers
Cambia Health Solutions, a family of companies dedicated to transforming people’s journey through the health care system, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. April Krutka, DO as Cambia’s Palliative Care Medical Director. Dr. Krutka brings almost ten years of progressive experience developing and directing palliative care business and provider strategies through the development of strategic partnerships, programs and initiatives.
Palliative care is a strategic priority for Cambia because it transforms the health care experience of people and families living with serious illness. The company has integrated this palliative care focus across the enterprise, including philanthropy, health plan initiatives and investment strategies with the goal of helping people with serious illness to live as well as possible for as long as possible and to support their family caregivers.
Dr. Krutka is dedicated to compassionate care. In her new role, she will provide clinical oversight for Cambia’s health plan’s personalized care support program to ensure the company’s medical policies, programs and strategies are both high quality and cost effective, improving health outcomes for members and their families.
“Cambia’s vision is that every person with serious illness receives personalized care that is consistent with their values, goals and preferences; and that their caregivers will feel included, honored and respected,” said Peggy Maguire, Senior Vice President, Palliative Care Solutions at Cambia Health Solutions. “Having Dr. Krutka on the team will help us advance person-focused, economically sustainable care for our customers.”
Previously as Intermountain Healthcare’s palliative care associate medical director, Dr. Krutka drove palliative care initiatives from within the health care system, creating and scaling pilot projects and software development furthering advanced illness care across Utah. In Grand Junction, Colo., she received HopeWest’s Pioneer Spirit Award for Creativity and Passion for building an innovative, full spectrum palliative care consultation service. In 2014, Dr. Krutka was awarded St. Mary’s Circle of Care Award, when her patient donated to the hospital’s foundation in her honor, citing their marked difference in quality of life.
Dr. Krutka earned her Hospice & Palliative Medicine board certification from the University of Kansas and completed her Family Practice residency at AnMed Health in South Carolina. She will continue to live, work and mountain bike in Salt Lake City.
