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.
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
Honoring a Pioneer & Founding Board Chair of the Northwest Osteopathic Foundation
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.
Board of Directors
Officers
Jennifer Ribar, D.O., President
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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
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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
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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
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.
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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.
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Specialties
- Emergency Medicine
- General Emergency Medicine
Richard Koss, D.O.
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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.
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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-Klucevek, 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.
Staff
Jacqueline Forsythe, Executive Director
Join us in advancing healthcare, fostering community well-being, & empowering a future where quality, osteopathic care is accessible to all.