Montell named Physician of the Year

At the Hilo Medical Center Foundation’s 10th Anniversary Wine, Cheese, Chocolate and More! fundraiser on Sunday, the Hawaii County Medical Society will honor Dr. Edwin Montell as the 2012 Physician of the Year.

The fun, gourmet event in support of the Foundation will be held at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel’s Moku ‘Ola Room and lanai from 4-7 p.m. Tickets are $55 in advance and can be purchased at the Most Irresistible Shop, Grapes, Kadota Liquors and the Foundation office. If available, they will be on sale for $65 at the door.

“The Physician of the Year Award is a highlight of our Wine and Cheese fundraiser,” said Lori Rogers, the foundation’s executive director, “and we are pleased with this year’s selection because Dr. Montell is an exemplary leader who has dedicated 33 years to improving medical care here in Hilo. He has been in leadership roles at Hilo Medical Center serving on its Medical Executive Committee for five years and is currently serving his second stint as chief of staff.”

According to Dr. Joann Sarubbi, Hawaii County Medical Society’s chairwoman, Montell extends his leadership skills in many community organizations including the HMSA Board of Directors, the Beacon Board and the Bay Clinic Board. In coalition with the Catholic Charities, he was instrumental in founding the Hilo Homeless Shelter in the 1980s.

Montell began practicing in Hilo in 1979 at the Hilo Medical Group. He was Hilo’s first gastroenterologist, a much-needed specialist in treating diseases of the digestive system. In 1990, he formed Gastroenterology Associates Inc. and has been in private practice every since.

All proceeds will go toward the Hilo Medical Center Foundation’s mission to support the Hilo Medical Center with projects that benefit the greater community. For more information, call the Foundation office at 935-2957.