Professional Role and Affiliation
Lisa Illig, MD serves as Medical Director of Palliative Medicine at HealthPartners, specifically practicing at Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital and the HealthPartners Frauenshuh Cancer Center in the Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area. She has held the leadership role of Medical Director at Park Nicollet Health Services since August 2009, marking over 16 years of continuous service in this capacity.
Areas of Clinical Expertise and Medical Interests
Dr. Illig is board-certified in internal medicine and hospice & palliative care, with a clinical focus on palliative medicine providing expert symptom management and pain relief, especially for oncology and end-of-life care patients. She is recognized as a pain and symptom management expert within the palliative care domain. Her scope includes working as part of multidisciplinary care teams to enhance quality of life for patients with advanced illness.
Educational Background
Dr. Illig holds an MD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health (1993-1997). She completed an Internal Medicine Residency (1997-2001) and a Fellowship in Hospice and Palliative Medicine (2001-2002) at the same institution. Her foundational education includes degrees in biology from Drake University (MA, 1991-1993) and Luther College (BA, 1987-1991).
Professional Experience
- Medical Director Palliative Medicine, Park Nicollet Health Services (Aug 2009 – Present)
- Physician, Martha Jefferson Hospital, Charlottesville, VA (Jun 2003 – Jul 2009)
Her clinical and leadership experience bridges over two decades, encompassing direct patient care and administrative oversight in palliative medicine settings.
Recognitions and Awards
Dr. Illig has been repeatedly recognized in Minnesota Monthly Top Doctors lists including in 2021 and 2023, underscoring peer recognition for clinical excellence in her specialty. She has received multiple accolades related to her expertise in hospice and palliative care.
Contributions to Research and Thought Leadership
Dr. Illig has co-authored at least two peer-reviewed clinical research articles focused on palliative care and oncology patient outcomes. She has contributed to discussions on improving end-of-life care pathways, integrating palliative care into oncology treatment, and managing pain and symptoms in advanced illness. Publications and professional presentations associated with her focus include topics such as inpatient oncology hospitalization practices and personalized pain management strategies.
Institutional Context
HealthPartners is a well-established healthcare system in Minnesota, with facilities including Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital and the Frauenshuh Cancer Center. Dr. Illig operates within a multidisciplinary team setting aimed at delivering comprehensive palliative and oncology care. The institution has received notable awards such as the Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award for outstanding patient experience in oncology services, signaling an environment committed to quality and patient-centered care.
Professional Network and Public Profile
Dr. Illig maintains an active professional presence on LinkedIn ([profile](http://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-illig-378551144)) with over 50 connections and followers, reflecting an engaged clinical and professional network. She is involved in collaborative interdisciplinary efforts within HealthPartners and the broader Minnesota healthcare community.
Summary: Dr. Lisa Illig is a highly experienced and board-certified medical director specializing in palliative medicine at HealthPartners. Her long tenure and leadership at Park Nicollet Health Services, combined with recognized clinical excellence and contributions to peer-reviewed research on palliative care and oncology, position her as a key clinical stakeholder in managing complex, life-limiting illness patient populations. Her work supports HealthPartners’ strategic emphasis on quality, patient-centered oncology and hospice care in the Minneapolis area.
