Rev. Tracey R. Lopez is a Palliative Care Chaplain at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. She is Board Certified by the Association of Professional Chaplains, (APC). She serves the APC on an annual basis, by mentoring and interviewing BCC candidates. Prior to coming to MWHC, Tracey worked in various healthcare organizations, including hospice, where she honed her skills in supporting patients and families dealing with chronic illnesses and end-of-life challenges. She is passionate about the promotion of Palliative Care philosophies and the focus on holistic care of every patient. As a healthcare chaplain, she believes the invitation into a person’s struggle and vulnerability while hospitalized is sacred space.
Tracey is enthusiastic about collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, seeking opportunities to advance her professional skills, while sharing her knowledge and expertise in the areas of end-of-life concerns, grief, and bereavement. Tracey is broadening her knowledge and skills in the areas of mindfulness, complimentary spiritual/emotional healing interventions, and legacy building for patients with chronic and serious illnesses. She incorporates these interventions in her work to enhance coping and meaning. In the community, Tracey is serving as the President of the Virginia Chaplains Association Board, a nonprofit, volunteer organization which promotes the continuing professional development, advocacy, and support of professional chaplains.