Skip to main content
2026 Annual Assembly of Hospice & Palliative Care Main banner
Conference Favorites
This is not in your schedule.
This will appear in your schedule. Click again to remove it.
Session Icons
AAHPM Abstract Award Winner
AAHPM Abstract Award Winner
HPNA Abstract Award Winner
HPNA Abstract Award Winner
Registration Required
Registration Required
Poster Icons
AAHPM Abstract Award Winner
AAHPM Abstract Award Winner
HPNA Abstract Award Winner
HPNA Abstract Award Winner

Maria L. Sturchler, MD, EdD, HMDC (she/her/hers)

Senior Medical Director of Inpatient Palliative Care and Hospice
Lower Cape Fear LifeCare & Novant Health, Coastal NC Region

Maria de Lourdes L. Sturchler is the Senior Medical Director of Inpatient Palliative Medicine and Hospice at Lower Cape Fear Lifecare, where she brings a diverse and unique background to her work and leadership efforts. Maria initially taught middle and high school math for nearly a decade before pursuing a career in medicine. At the age of 29, she returned to school and attended Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, ultimately becoming an emergency physician. Her journey later led her to specialize in Hospice & Palliative Medicine, and she now leads several teams and combines her medical expertise with her passion for humanistic patient care at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, North Carolina and other hospitals within Novant Health system's Coastal Region of North Carolina.

Dr. Sturchler is triple board certified in Emergency Medicine, Hospice & Palliative Medicine, and as a Hospice Medical Director. She is highly regarded for her ability to connect with patients and families during challenging times, offering expert clinical care and emotional support.

In addition to her medical training, Dr. Sturchler earned a Master’s degree in mathematics education and a Doctorate in educational leadership, reflecting her commitment to effective and compassionate leadership.

Beyond her professional career, Maria is a three-time Ironman finisher, having competed in events in Tempe, AZ; Louisville, KY; and Cozumel, Mexico. Her dedication to endurance sports mirrors her personal commitment to resilience and perseverance. Maria spent part of her childhood in southeastern Africa, where she developed a love for adventure. Both her stepfather and biological father were professional safari hunters, further deepening her connection to the natural world.

Outside of her medical practice, Dr. Sturchler is a mother of 2 young children, and enjoys beach trips, cycling, piano, and gardening, as well as applying her experience and knowledge as an expert witness.

Presentation(s):

Email Maria