Hospice of the Chesapeake, Maryland’s largest independent not-for-profit hospice organization, has recently expanded its medical team with the addition of two new physicians. Dr. Sonja Richmond and Dr. Ever Ponciano have joined the organization, enhancing its capacity to deliver expert and compassionate care throughout Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, and Prince George’s counties.
Dr. Sonja Richmond has been appointed as Vice President of Medical Affairs and Hospice Medical Director. Based in Waldorf, Maryland, at the organization’s Charles County location, Dr. Richmond will lead the hospice medical team across all served counties, including the two inpatient care centers. She brings a wealth of experience from Vitas Healthcare in Washington, D.C., where she previously served as a hospice medical director. Dr. Richmond holds board certifications in internal medicine and as a hospice medical director. Her educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Virginia, a medical degree, and a residency from George Washington University. Besides her medical expertise, Dr. Richmond is also passionate about wellness and mindfulness, holding an Ayurveda certification and pursuing a Yin Yoga certification.
Joining her is Dr. Ever Ponciano, who has transitioned from a contracted role to a permanent position as a hospice physician within the organization. Dr. Ponciano will provide care at the Hussman Supportive Care Center and the Rebecca Fortney Inpatient Care Center. His previous role was Associate Medical Director at Hospice of Washington County, and he continues to serve the community in private practice. Dr. Ponciano completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland and earned his medical degree from the Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia.
Dr. Marny Fetzer, Chief Medical Officer at Hospice of the Chesapeake, praised the new additions. “As Maryland’s largest independent not-for-profit hospice organization, we take our role of providing expert, compassionate care to all who need it very seriously. Dr. Richmond and Dr. Ponciano join us in our mission to break down barriers to bring hope and healing to those experiencing advanced, serious illness,” Dr. Fetzer commented.
The integration of these two esteemed physicians into the Hospice of the Chesapeake’s team is expected to fortify the organization’s commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to patients and their families across the region.
