Emily Looney, MD, has joined Samaritan Evergreen Hospice as medical director.
Dr. Looney earned a bachelor’s degree from Cornell University and a medical degree from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. She completed training in family medicine at the Family Medicine Residency of Idaho and a hospice and palliative medicine fellowship at the University of Utah. While in medical school, she completed a rotation with Dr. Ira Byock, one of the early figures in palliative care.
When asked what motivated her to work in hospice and palliative care, Dr. Looney said, “I find it deeply meaningful to have honest conversations with patients and families, help align their medical care with their values and walk with them through the last phase of life.”
Dr. Looney has been with Samaritan Health Services since 2016, practicing at Samaritan Family Medicine – Geary Street and Samaritan Supportive Services at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center. She is board certified in hospice and palliative medicine as well as family medicine.
“The interdisciplinary team at Samaritan Evergreen Hospice works together in a powerful way to help meet the physical, psychosocial and spiritual needs of patients at the end of life,” said Dr. Looney. “I am very excited to join this passionate and dynamic team. I look forward to continuing the standard of high quality care, partnering with local organizations, and providing education to providers and community members about key end of life topics and advance care planning.”
In addition to serving as medical director for Samaritan Evergreen Hospice, Dr. Looney will continue a part time primary care practice at Samaritan Family Medicine – Geary Street.
In her free time, Dr. Looney enjoys playing classical saxophone and other woodwinds. This spring she will play in the pit orchestra for the Albany Community Theater’s production of “Annie.” She also enjoys pottery, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with her family and domesticated house bunny.
Samaritan Evergreen Hospice focuses on patient comfort and quality of life as well as support services for patients including spiritual support, respite care and bereavement support groups. Learn more about available hospice services.