Advocating for the Principles of Osteopathic Medicine

Fostering Equitable Healthcare Solutions in the Northwest

Committed to advancing the future of healthcare, the Northwest Osteopathic Foundation serves as the fundraising catalyst for programs aimed at enhancing access to comprehensive, patient-centered medical care in underserved communities. With a dedicated focus on championing holistic practices and promoting universal healthcare access, we aspire to uplift underserved communities while fostering a network of partnerships and nurturing empathetic leaders across the Pacific Northwest.

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What is Osteopathic Medicine?

Osteopathic medicine is a comprehensive approach to healthcare that focuses on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms of a disease. Osteopathic physicians (DOs) undergo rigorous medical training that includes traditional medical practices as well as specialized osteopathic techniques. These techniques emphasize the body’s ability to heal itself and the importance of the musculoskeletal system in overall health.

DOs are trained to look at the patient as a whole and consider all aspects of their health – physical, mental, and emotional – when diagnosing and treating medical conditions. Osteopathic medicine prioritizes preventative care, patient education, and a holistic approach to medical treatment, aiming to not only treat illness but also promote overall well-being and quality of life.

History of Osteopathic Medicine

1850s
1860s
1870s
1880s
1892
1894
1896
1897
1917
1922
1951
1967
1973
2005
2014
2016
2017
2020
2023
2024

1850s

In 1853, Dr. Still moves to Kansas to help his father provide care for Native Americans and soon receives training to become a physician. In 1857, Dr. Still is elected to Kansas’ territorial legislature.

1860s

Dr. Still marries Mary Elvira Turner, known as the mother of osteopathic medicine. Dr. Still serves in the Union Army and is distraught by the medical care and effects of opium. Four children of Dr. Still’s die within four weeks, prompting him to rethink his medical training.

1870s

On June 22nd 1874, after years of study and research, Dr. Still develops what would become osteopathic medicine. In 1875, Dr. Still moves to Kirksville, Missouri to work as a traveling physician.

1880s

Dr. Still’s reputation grows, and he coins the term “osteopathy.”

1892

ATSU opens as the American School of Osteopathy (ASO) in Kirksville, with A.T. Still, DO, as the first president.

1894

The Journal of Osteopathy is launched in Kirksville and prints until 1964.

1896

Vermont is the first state to license osteopathic physicians for medical practice.

1897

The American Association for the Advancement of Osteopathy (now the American Osteopathic Association) was established.

1917

On December 12th, Dr. Still dies at age 89 in Kirksville, Missouri.

1922

The Andrew Taylor Still College of Osteopathy and Surgery (ATSCOS) is founded by George M. Laughlin, DO.

1951

U.S. Congress amends the Social Security Act to include osteopathic physicians.

1967

DO graduates participate in the military residency match for the first time.

1973

The DO degree is recognized in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

2005

Louisiana becomes the 50th state to accept the COMPLEX examination.

2014

Transition to a single accreditation system for graduate medical education is announced.

2016

The number of DOs in the U.S. surpasses 100,000.

2017

125th anniversary of the opening of the first college of osteopathic medicine. One in 4 U.S. medical students attends an osteopathic medical school.

2020

The successful transition to a single GME accreditation system is completed. First combined DO and MD Match takes place. The number of DOs and osteopathic medical students surpasses 150,000. The JAOA is renamed Journal of Osteopathic Medicine.

2023

47 countries vote to support practice rights for DOs.

2024

Celebrating 150 years of osteopathic medicine.

Honoring a Pioneer & Founding Board Chair of the Northwest Osteopathic Foundation

Dr. J. Scott Heatherington, DO
Leader. Mentor. Osteopathic Trailblazer.

Dr. J. Scott Heatherington, DO, was one of the most influential osteopathic physicians in Oregon’s history. Known for his unmatched leadership, skill as a teacher, and quick-witted humor, Dr. Heatherington’s legacy continues to shape the future of osteopathic medicine across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Born in Woodson, Kansas, and raised as a preacher’s son, Scott developed an early love for music, mischief, and making people laugh—a trait that never left him. His journey to osteopathic medicine began at York College, where a roommate’s family inspired him to consider a career in healing. He enrolled at A.T. Still College in 1941, quickly proving his resilience in the face of wartime pressures and an accelerated curriculum.

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Following his internship in Detroit, Dr. Heatherington planted roots in Oregon, opening a practice in Medford before relocating to Gladstone. In addition to delivering babies and performing surgeries, he made countless house calls and served his community in every way imaginable—from Rotary Club president to church trustee.

Dr. Heatherington’s contributions to the osteopathic profession are immeasurable. He served as President of the American Osteopathic Association (1969–1970), helped establish the Department of Osteopathic Medicine at Eastmoreland General Hospital, and later became the founding Board Chair of the Northwest Osteopathic Medical Foundation. His work writing the foundation’s original bylaws and hiring its first executive helped ensure long-term support for osteopathic students—a mission that lives on today.

Among his many honors, Dr. Heatherington received the GP of the Year Award in 1974, a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1996, and the A.T. Still Medallion of Honor in 1998. Today, the OMT department at COMP-Northwest proudly bears his name, a tribute to his lifelong passion for hands-on healing and student mentorship.

Dr. Heatherington passed away in December 2000 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He is remembered as a gifted physician, a generous teacher, and a joyful spirit whose legacy continues to inspire.

“Scott had a way of making you feel like you belonged—from his patients to his peers to the students he mentored. His laugh and leadership were unforgettable.”

Mission, Vision, Values

Our Mission Statement

Northwest Osteopathic Foundation is dedicated to improving access to quality, whole-person healthcare in underserved communities by empowering the next generation of compassionate osteopathic physicians to ensure equitable healthcare for all.

Our Vision

We envision a world where everyone has access to culturally competent, compassionate, whole-person healthcare.

Our Values

Passion – We love what we do and are committed to moving osteopathic medicine forward.

Collaboration

We’re better together! We team up with others to strengthen osteopathic healthcare.

Excellence

We bring the best programs and partnerships to elevate care in the Northwest. Impact – We focus on smart strategies with clear goals to create real, lasting change.

Flexibility

Challenges happen—we adjust, adapt, and keep things moving forward.

Agility

The industry changes fast, and so do we, making sure we stay ahead and on mission.

Mindfulness

We believe in whole-person healthcare that cares for the mind, body, and spirit.

Education

We keep our community—donors, doctors, students, and supporters—engaged and informed.

Our Goals

Support Future Physicians

Break down barriers for osteopathic medical students, providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

Strengthen Partnerships

Build deeper connections with Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, Osteopathic Associations, and policymakers to drive meaningful change.

Expand Access to Care

Ensure that everyone can receive high-quality, holistic, and timely osteopathic healthcare, no matter their circumstances.

NWOF Recognized by Charity Navigator

Northwest Osteopathic Foundation has been awarded a prestigious 3-star rating by Charity Navigator, underscoring our commitment to financial health, accountability, and governance practices. This recognition reaffirms our organization’s dedication to transparency and effective philanthropic impact.

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Board of Directors

Officers

Jennifer Ribar, D.O., President | Northwest, US | Northwest Osteopathic Foundation<br />

Jennifer Ribar, D.O., President

Dr. Ribar is a graduate of Pacific Northwest University. As an osteopathic neuromusculoskeletal medicine specialist in her hometown of Fairbanks, Alaska, she exclusively practices OMM both in her clinic and in the local hospital. Dr. Ribar sees everything from newborns to 90+ year old's, acute and chronic conditions. She has been involved with the Northwest Osteopathic Foundation since medical school in Yakima, Washington, and is a former scholarship recipient. As President of NWOF she is excited to help transform how NWOF interacts with the osteopathic community of the Pacific Northwest at all levels of training and patient care.

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Dr. Ribar is one of eight physicians in the United States certified to teach seminars on the Fascial Distortion Model (FDM), which is a unique treatment that TVC OMM offers to our patients. FDM allows for effective manipulative treatment for pulled muscles, fractures and frozen shoulders. As one of the few, Dr. Ribar brings both experience as an osteopathic practitioner as well as a unique way of educating her patients about their bodies.

Interests

Dr. Ribar’s hobbies include outdoor activities, cooking and baking, reading, and binge-watching baking shows. Living in Alaska allows her to spend time doing anything outside – boating, fishing, hiking – the options are endless and “right at my fingertips”

Medical Education
  • Dr. Ribar earned her medical degree from the Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences.
  • Internship at Sparrow Osteopathic in Lansing, MI, and ONMM residency at Michigan State University
Board Certification
  • Board-certified through the American Osteopathic Association.
Additional Certifications
Juliet Bliss, D.O., President-Elect | Northwest, US | Northwest Osteopathic Foundation

Juliet Bliss, D.O., President-Elect

Juliet Bliss, DO, is a board-certified family medicine physician who also offers obstetrics. She works for Franciscan Medical Group. She is passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion, and enjoys partnering with diverse populations to provide equitable and exceptional care to all. Dr. Bliss practices compassionate, full-spectrum primary care, treating newborn infants to elders and everyone in between. Her approach is holistic and osteopathic, encompassing the mind, body, and spirit. She uses osteopathic (hands-on) techniques to treat many conditions, including headaches, sprains, sinus and upper respiratory infections, joint pain, and chronic body pain. She feels that getting to know everyone in the family is important for the best partnership in care, and she especially loves working with new parents.

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Medical Education
  • Residency: The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education/National Family Medicine Network, Auburn, WA
  • Medical School: A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Mesa, AZ
Board Certification
  • Family Medicine/OMT (Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment)
John Mozena, D.P.M., Treasurer | Northwest, US | Northwest Osteopathic Foundation

John Mozena, D.P.M., Treasurer

Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Surgery Fellow, American Society of Podiatric Surgeons Fellow, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons Fellow, American College of Ambulatory Foot Surgeons. John Mozena, D.P.M. has staff privileges at Legacy Hospitals, Providence Milwaukee Hospital, Providence Hospital, Willamette Falls Hospital, and Portland Adventist Hospital

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Medical Education

Surgical Residency:

  • Hillside Hospital, San Diego, 1983-1984
  • Residency Director, Medical Center Hospital, 1985-1991
  • Director of Podiatric Surgery, Medical Center Hospital, 1989-1991
  • Consultant for Nike shoe company, Tahnu division, 1987
  • Team Doctor, Central Catholic High School Football, 1987-1990
  • United States Patent: Planter Surface Baseball Cleat Design, 1982
Features on Television and in Print
  • Who’s Who in the World, America, West, Executives and Professionals, Science and Engineering.
  • Health & Living, August 1996; “Summer Heel Pain & Pediatrics” and various other segments
  • AM Northwest, January 1994, April 1994, June 1995, November 2000
  • “Good Evening Show”, Channel 2 News
  • March 1994, ESPN, “Cold Pizza”, 2006
  • Channel News 2, “Orthosorb” Pins, June 1993
  • “Endoscopic Heel Surgery,”, September 1994
  • Featured in Oregonian newspaper article, “Great toe implants.”
  • Consulting Editor, Podiatry Today, national publication, 2000-current
  • Consulting Editor Podiatry Management Magazine, national publication 1994-1997
  • Adjunct Faculty, Heath Professional Section, Portland Community College
  • 1999 Clinician of the Year, Eastmoreland Hospital
  • 2000-2001 National Satellite Media Tour on Onychomycosis
  • 2003 National Spokesperson, Dermik Lab “Best Foot Forward” Marathon Program
  • 2005-2006 Legislative Chairman, Oregon Podiatric Medical Association, O.P.M.A.
  • 2000-2014 Clinical Associate Professor of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery: Western University of Health Sciences 2010-Present.
Doug Woerner, D.O., Immediate Past President| Northwest, US | Northwest Osteopathic Foundation

Doug Woerner, D.O., Immediate Past President

As a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Woerner’s approach to care is a holistic one. He partners with patients to care for their whole person – mind, body, and spirit, with an emphasis on healthy living through diet and exercise. Dr. Woerner grew up in the Laurel area and has been caring for patients of all ages at Laurel Family Medicine for nearly sixteen years. He is pleased to partner with the excellent team at Laurel Family Medicine, and also the vast network of specialists in the SCL system. Dr. Woerner loves outdoor sports, especially hunting and fishing.

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Medical Education
  • Abrazo Central Campus
  • Residency, Family Medicine, 2008
  • Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
  • Medical School, 2005
Board Certification
  • Family Medicine
  • American Board of Family Medicine, 2009

Board Members

Thomas Kincheloe, D.O.| Northwest, US | Northwest Osteopathic Foundation

Thomas Kincheloe, D.O.

Dr. Kincheloe earned a medical degree from Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences. He completed an internship at Stony Brook University at Southampton Hospital and residency training at Michigan State University. As a board-certified physician in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine, Dr. Kincheloe specializes in treating Neuromusculoskeletal injuries with hands-on treatments, also known as Osteopathic Manipulation, utilizing biomechanics, cranial techniques, and fascial techniques. He also has a medical interest in Regenerative Medicine, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Ringside Medicine, and Performing Arts Medicine. Dr. Kincheloe enjoys spending his spare time with his family, playing board games, and training in martial arts (Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu).

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Fields
  • Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine
  • Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine
  • Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
  • Medical Education
Areas of Expertise
  • Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
  • Chronic Pain
  • Interrater Reliability
  • Common Compensatory Pattern and Fascial Planes
  • Fascial Distortion Model
Methodological Expertise
  • Case studies​
  • Systematic reviews
Current Projects
  • Investigation in Sink’s Common Compensatory Pattern with Frequency, Variability, and Inter-rater Reliability
  • Use of Artificial Intelligence in Undergraduate Medical Education
Nancy Kragt, D.O.| Northwest, US | Northwest Osteopathic Foundation

Nancy Kragt, D.O.

Dr. Nancy L. Kragt (Loerke) is an emergency medicine physician in Anchorage, Alaska, and is affiliated with Alaska Regional Hospital. Dr. Kragt graduated from the Univ of North Texas Health Science Center Texas College of Osteopathic Med in 2004. She works in Anchorage, AK, and specializes in Emergency Medicine. Dr. Kragt is affiliated with Alaska Regional Hospital and has been practicing for 20 years.

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Specialties
  • Emergency Medicine
  • General Emergency Medicine
Richard Koss, D.O.| Northwest, US | Northwest Osteopathic Foundation

Richard Koss, D.O.

Dr. Richard Koss is more than a physician; he’s a healer dedicated to restoring balance and wellness through osteopathic principles. His journey in medicine began with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, earned with Summa Cum Laude honors from Springfield College, followed by a Fellowship in Anatomy & amp; Physiology. He graduated from A.T. Still University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1982 and later served as a Flight Surgeon and Family Practice Chief in the U.S. Air Force.

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Driven by his dedication to holistic care, Dr. Koss returned to Kirksville to specialize in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM), which remains his central practice focus today. Throughout his career, Dr. Koss has held influential teaching and leadership positions. He served as an Assistant Professor at A.T. Still University and as Vice Chair of the OMM Department at the University of North Texas Health Sciences Center. His accolades include Educator of the Year in 1997 and recognition as one of “Seattle’s Best Doctors” in 2002. Since 1999, Dr. Koss has dedicated himself to his Maple Valley practice, focusing exclusively on osteopathic manipulative treatments and sharing his knowledge

Certifications and Expertise
  • Board Certified in Family Practice and OMM
  • Certified in Medical Acupuncture
  • Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM)
Dave Miller, D.O. H| Northwest, US | Northwest Osteopathic Foundation

Dave Miller, D.O.

As an Osteopathic Family Physician, I strive to treat the whole person through all stages of life. I enjoy seeing young kids and watching them grow up along with taking care of their parents and grandparents. This includes using Osteopathic Manipulation to treat a variety of problems from back pain and neck pain to sports injuries with fewer medications and often quicker return times. I look forward to helping take care of your family.

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Physician at Family Health Services

Family Health Services provides high-quality, culturally sensitive primary medical and dental care, behavioral health, and social services that are affordable and accessible to the people of South Central Idaho.

Medical Education
  • Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Yakima, Washington – Graduated 2014
  • Osteopathic Family Practice and Manipulative Treatment
  • Allegiance Health Residency Program, Jackson, Michigan – Completed 2017
Lisa Newton, D.O. Northwest, US | Northwest Osteopathic Foundation

Lisa Newton, D.O.

Dr. Newton is a Family Medicine Physician providing direct primary care for Premise Health in Portland, Oregon. She has over 23 years of experience and is board certified in Family Medicine/OMT. She is affiliated with Legacy Health System. Dr. Newton graduated from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her undergraduate education at The University of Michigan. Though she hails from Michigan, Dr. Newton loves living in the Pacific Northwest and exploring all of the wonderful activities the area has to offer. In her free time you will find her walking her dog in the woods, volunteering, or spending time with family and friends.

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Specialty
  • Family Medicine
Kevin Wilson, D.O.| Northwest, US | Northwest Osteopathic Foundation

Kevin Wilson, D.O.

Dr. Wilson received his B.S. in biology from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan before graduating from Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1988. He completed his internship and Internal Medicine residency at Detroit Osteopathic Hospital in Highland Park, Michigan. Dr. Wilson practiced inpatient and outpatient Internal Medicine from 1992-2017 in Cottonwood, Arizona at Verde Valley Medical Center. There, he developed the center’s Internal Medicine residency and served as the Director of Medical Education and Program Director

Staff

Jacqueline Forsythe, Executive Director

Phone: 971-491-5566
Email: jforsythe@nwosteo.org

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