October SCMS The Message Open2
Table of Contents
2013 Officers and Board of Trustees Anne Oakley, MD President David Bare, MD, President-Elect
The Physician Assistant .
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Terri Oskin, MD Immediate Past President
Correction to article in September 2013 edition of The Message .
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Shane McNevin, MD Vice President
Hospital Admissions Hampered .
Matt Hollon, MD, Secretary-Treasurer
CMS Clarifies Policy: PAs Authorized to Perform Hospital Admissions . .
Trustees: Robert Benedetti, MD Audrey Brantz, MD Karina Dierks, MD Clinton Hauxwell, MD Charles Benage, MD J. Edward Jones, MD Louis Koncz, PA-C Gary Newkirk, MD Fredric Shepard, MD Carla Smith, MD
Fall 2013 PA Challenge .
Newsletter editor – David Bare, MD
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The Impact of Health Care Reform on SCMS Foundation Work .
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Quick Facts about the Physician Assistant Profession: Past, Present and Future .
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Group Aims to Improve Community Health with School Drop-Out Early Intervention .
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SCMS Members’ Special Event at Triple Play Family Fun Park .
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Membership Recognition for October 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . 11 In The News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Spokane County Medical Society Message A monthly newsletter published by the Spokane County Medical Society. Advertising Correspondence Quisenberry Marketing & Design Attn: Lisa Poole 518 S. Maple Spokane, WA 99204 509-325-0701 Fax 509-325-3889 Lisa@quisenberry.net All rights reserved. This publication, or any part thereof, may not be reproduced without the express written permission of the Spokane County Medical Society. Authors’ opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policies of SCMS nor the Editor or publisher. The Editor reserves the right to edit all contributions for clarity and length, as well as the right not to publish submitted articles and advertisements, for any reason. Acceptance of advertising for this publication in no way constitutes Society approval or endorsement of products or services advertised herein.
In Memoriam: Clinton A. “Pete” Piper, M.D. .
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A Project Access Client’s Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 new physicians .
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Positions available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Continuing medical education / Meetings / conferences / events . . . 17 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 2013 SCMS Events .
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together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success .”
– H enry F ord
October SCMS The Message Open3
The Physician Assistant By Anne Oakley, MD SCMS President
This issue of The Message has articles about the Physician Assistant (PA) community in Spokane, many of whom are members of the SCMS. I would like to share some interesting information about the profession with all of you, especially with those of you who are not PAs and do not regularly interact with these colleagues. I obtained most of these facts from the American Academy of Physician Assistants’ webpage, www.aapa.org. This website defines a PA as “a medical professional who works as part of a team with a doctor. A PA is a graduate of an accredited PA educational program who is nationally certified and statelicensed to practice medicine with the supervision of a physician.”
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There have been well-trained people assisting physicians for as long as the title “doctor” has existed. The military’s use of corpsmen and medics is best known and most longstanding. It is from this group that Dr. Eugene Stead selected the first class of PA students when he established a formalized training program at Duke University in 1965. The concept was well received, and by the 1970’s there was federal recognition of the profession. The medical community was involved from the start in establishing curriculum standards and credentialing. There are now 149 accredited programs, and PAs can practice in all 50 states. All PAs must pass the PANCE (PA National Certifying Exam), become licensed in their state of practice, perform 100 hours of CME every two years and retake the PANCE every six years to maintain licensure. Unlike physician training programs where specialization occurs after formal schooling in residency tracts, PAs are all trained as generalists and learn the specifics of the job while working. This gives PAs a great deal more flexibility in their career. This flexibility will have a lot of value as new health care delivery systems evolve. Currently one-third of PAs work in primary care, two-thirds in specialty care (ERs, surgery, occupational med, etc). Seventeen percent practice in rural settings. Who knows how these numbers may change with time and need. I see daily the invaluable partnering of my surgical colleagues with PAs in the OR on many levels, from improved patient care to OR efficiency. This issue also contains information about some national issues which will affect many of your practices. According to the propaganda, the Affordable Care Act had a goal to more efficiently use Physician Assistants, particularly in areas of physician shortage. Despite this, the law seems to have some provisions that seemingly contradict this goal. Please read PA Jason Konyu’s article on the issue of hospital admission processes. Enjoy this issue, and remember once again that this is a publication for you--the members! We are planning some reformatting in the year 2014 and hope to focus on you as well as on news of professional interest. Contributors welcome!
Let’s Whip Whooping Cough: Vaccinate your patients for pertussis
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Correction to article in September 2013 edition of The Message. Article read: The Dtap booster is given to pregnant women, adults and teens, and the Tdap vaccine is given to children and babies who are eight weeks and older. CORRECTION Should read: The Tdap booster is given to pregnant women, adults and teens, and the Dtap vaccine is given to children and babies who are eight weeks and older.
October SCMS The Message 1
Hospital Admissions Hampered
By Jason Konyu, PA-C Northwest Heart and Lung Surgical Associates On August 19 of this year the Center of Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) published a new rule that has the potential to directly affect patient care across not only Washington State but the rest of the nation as well. The greatest influence of this ruling will be felt in the rural community hospitals where mid-level providers’ presence greatly extends their supervising physicians’ abilities, or they are among the few providers that provide much needed medical care in those communities. CMS published its 2014 Policy and Payment Changes for Inpatient Stays in Acute-Care and Long-Term Care Hospitals and released it on August 19. Within the 2000+ paged regulatory rule is a section that prevents physicians from delegating to PAs or other healthcare practitioners the ability to admit patients to the hospital. This can be read on the CMS website at: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-08-19/pdf/2013-18956. pdf#page=471 . The section under question is 412.3(b). This ruling will make it nearly impossible for PAs or other healthcare practitioners from admitting patients to the hospital. It removes a supervising physician’s abilities to delegate the responsibly to a mid-level practitioner along with other requirements that create issues for patient care. The following excerpt is from a recent email I received on August 28 from the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) publicizing their position on the CMS rule and explaining the rule: The final rule contains three new requirements that create roadblocks for a timely hospital admissions process involving PAs and other qualified healthcare practitioners. PAs and other qualified practitioners must have ‘admitting privileges’ at the hospital. (PAs have privileges at hospitals and write orders. However, hospitals only provide admitting privileges to physicians. PAs and others currently furnish the order to admit through the delegation of a physician.) PAs and other qualified practitioners must be permitted by state law to admit patients to hospitals. (All state laws currently allow physicians to delegate orders to PAs. However, state laws do not specifically address admitting privileges for PAs or others.) Physicians are prohibited from delegating the hospital admission order to PAs and other qualified practitioners. (PA practice is predicated on the ability of physicians to delegate to PAs, and is clearly defined by state laws.)”
working with the CMS as well as the White House for several months to reduce access to care issues. Such as “eliminating the requirement that a physician be on site once every two weeks in certified rural health clinics staffed by PAs. The new admissions requirements appear to run contrary to Secretary Kathleen Sebelius’ leadership role in removing unnecessary Health and Human Services (HHS) regulatory barriers to the provision of healthcare in rural and other medically underserved communities.” As stated by the AAPA in a statement published on August 14 about the CMS new rules and regulations. Good news is that on September 5, CMS released a publication that clarifies practitioners’ orders as well as qualifications of practitioners. This publication, acknowledges PAs and other practitioners following the delegated medical treatments of patients. The publication is viewable on the CMS website under the hospital section or by the following link: http://www.cms.gov/ Medicare/Medicare-Fee-for-Service-Payment/AcuteInpatientPPS/ Downloads/IP-Certification-and-Order-09-05-13.pdf. This is a start to addressing the issue of mid-levels admitting patients under the direction of a supervising physician. It clarifies that phyisicans can delegate to PAs to admit a patient to the hosptial. But it still does not address the issue that PAs and other mid-level providers do not have admitting privileges. It also is not clear on how the supervising physicians are to authenticate these delegated orders, leaving it ambiguous as to whether we need more legislation to allow mid-level providers to fully function as care providers for patients being admitted to acute and long term care settings. Mid-level providers regularly are fully involved and vested in the care of patients being treated in acute care settings. They round on patients daily, write orders, and direct patient care in the hospital. A PA’s practice is strictly predicated on the supervising Physician’s ability to delegate to them. That is how the PA-physician model was designed to work. A team approach to patient care. Mid-level providers’ abilities are defined clearly by state law. And so, the next question to ask is how can we expand the model to improve patient care, access to care, delivery of care? Particularly in light of the up coming changes to our stressed medical system.
This regulation will result in potential delays in patient care and potentially adverse outcomes through delayed hospital admissions. It also not only affects hospitals but long term care facilities as well, such as rehabilitation facilities, pyschiatric hospitals, and skilled nursing centers. The AAPA has been closely
October SCMS The Message 2
CMS Clarifies Policy: PAs Authorized to Perform Hospital Admissions
Fall 2013 PA Challenge By Michael Zosel, PA-C
Submitted by Theresa Schimmels, PA-C from the American Academy of Physician Assistant (AAPA) website with permission : http://www.aapa.org/the_pa_profession/federal_and_state_ affairs/resources/item.aspx?id=6767&terms=k%20sebelius%20 aapa On September 5, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued guidance that affirms the ability of PAs, NPs and medical residents to personally write admission orders and perform the history and physical (H&P) for hospital inpatient admissions. The guidance clarifies language contained in the Hospital Inpatient Perspective Payment System (IPPS) rule for 2014, which called into question and appeared to restrict the authority of PAs and certain other professionals to provide these important services. A major purpose of the IPPS rule was to assist hospitals in defining the appropriate use of hospital admission versus observation status, thereby helping more Medicare beneficiaries become eligible for nursing home care after a minimum three-day hospital inpatient stay. Prior to the release of the guidance, AAPA wrote Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, explaining that limiting the ability of PAs to provide hospital admission services would undermine patient access to necessary care and disrupt care in hospitals throughout the country, especially in rural communities and at critical access hospitals. AAPA Advocacy and Government Affairs staff and a PA hospital administrator met with senior CMS officials to express serious reservations about the language. CMS officials indicated it was not their intent to disrupt the important role PAs play in the hospital admissions process. Even with the guidance, AAPA remains concerned about a required aspect of the admissions process—the physician certification of the admission. This certification occurs after the order is written and the H&P has been performed. The guidance states only a physician is authorized to authenticate the certification and the certification must occur prior to the patient’s discharge. Additional CMS clarification is needed regarding the certification process so it can be determined whether barriers to practice efficiencies will be created, and how hospital electronic health records systems will be impacted.
I had my performance review recently. We met in our board room with my precepting doc and four other people I’ve only met a few times. Overall came out of it with an A- or a C+ depending on whose face I was looking at. Gotta work on some stuff. The feedback was good. I am a PA-C working downtown with a group of six great MDs. I’d say at least five of them are brilliant. This twenty minute assessment got me thinking about what other people- namely my patients- think of my performance. Got me thinking of ways to make them feel cared for and accepted. Like many of you I struggle to get face time with my patients with that damn computer in the room. (Side note: apparently I’m not allowed to upcode just because I document “25 of 30 minute visit spent face to face with frozen EMR.”) Not long after this review I did a sports physical for a young lady. We got to the family history and she revealed one dead parent and the other in jail for life. Yet here she was, moving on and excited about playing basketball for her middle school. The human spirit… So what do I have to complain about? Well, I have a list—starting with the EMR and meaningful (meaningless?) use but I’m not goin’ there. Too petty. Instead I created a list of positive actions for myself (and you?): • Include the days’ patients in my morning prayers • Bring my assistant her favorite coffee tomorrow morning • Always check the ‘yes’ box to precept students ( I think I benefit as much as they do) • Thank my support staff at the end of the week—they do more for me than I realize • Say to a Medicaid or Molina patient” I’m really glad you’re a patient here”. Words they’ve probably never heard • Plan an office fundraiser for the upcoming holidays. Gift it in the name of my precepting docs to a local charity • Call a depressed patient out of the blue (no pun intended)
In short, I really have nothing to complain about (but probably will anyway). My friends I wish you peace, prosperity and renewal.
AAPA will continue to work with CMS to help assure that the rule and subsequent clarification will not disrupt access to care or the ability of hospitals to utilize PAs to the full extent of their education and expertise.
October SCMS The Message 3
Quick Facts about the Physician Assistant Profession: Past, Present and Future
Further, those against a name change argue that changing national and state legislation for PA practice (which lists “physician assistants” in the regulatory language) would be a strain on time and resources.
Submitted by Theresa Schimmels, PA-C from the AAPA website with permission: http://www.aapa.org/the_pa_profession/quick_ facts/resources/item.aspx?id=3840
AAPA’s Board of Directors has not taken a position on the name change, but has stated that the more broadly representative AAPA House of Delegates is the proper place for discussion of this and other issues affecting the PA profession.
What are projections for the future growth of the
When and how was the profession founded?
profession? And why is it growing so fast?
The PA profession was created to improve and expand healthcare. In the mid-1960s, physicians and educators recognized there was a shortage of primary care physicians. To remedy this, Dr. Eugene Stead of the Duke University Medical Center put together the first class of PAs in 1965. He selected Navy corpsmen who had received considerable medical training during their military service. Dr. Stead based the curriculum of the PA program on his knowledge of the fast-track training of doctors during World War II. The first PA class graduated from the Duke University PA program on Oct. 6, 1967. The PA concept was lauded early on and gained acceptance and backing federally as early as the 1970s as a creative solution to physician shortages. The medical community helped support the profession and spurred setting accreditation standards, establishing a national certification and standardized examination, and developing continuing medical education requirements. For more information, visit the Physician Assistant History Society.
What other names have been proposed for physician assistants?
In medical literature and in the media, there are many names that have been used interchangeably with “physician assistant”: non-physician provider, physician extender, mid-level provider, healthcare practitioner. However, the official name has been debated throughout the history of the profession. The main contender to replace “physician assistant” has been “physician associate.” During the early days of the profession, many of the most prominent programs were “physician associate” programs. Many people, including educators, physicians and regulators, influenced the profession’s name. Eventually, the title “physician assistant” gained general acceptance. Those who support changing the name back to “physician associate” argue that “assistant” does not adequately represent all that a PA does and is confusing for patients (often being mistaken for “medical assistant”). Those who support leaving the name as is feel that now PAs are more well-known, and that patients accept PA-provided care regardless of the name.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that PAs will be the second-fastest-growing profession in the next decade, increasing from 74,800 in 2008 to 103,900 in 2018. AAPA projects that in 2020, there will be between 137,000 and 173,000 certified PAs. In answer to growing physician shortages, there is a push for more PAs to help ensure access to care. Coupled with this are the prospects of an aging population (who will need more healthcare services) and the fact that more people are expected to seek care due to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
Can PAs practice internationally, and are there PAs in other countries?
PAs can practice internationally, but the options are limited. Because the PA profession is still young in other countries, there may be lack of regulation or definition of PA practice. The most common ways to practice internationally are to work for the U.S. Department of State or to volunteer with a relief organization that serves developing countries. There are few PA programs and PAs working in other countries: • Canada has the most established and fastest-growing network of PAs. PAs are authorized to practice in almost all Canadian provinces, and Canadian PAs are working to ensure adequate legislation for full PA practice. • The Netherlands has a growing cohort of PAs, with five PA programs and about 400 PAs, according to the Netherlands Association of Physician Assistants. • India has a growing and promising community of PAs. According to the Indian Association of Physician Assistants, there are 300 PAs practicing in India. • South Africa has a few programs that are similar to PA programs. Instead of “physician assistants,” program graduates are called “clinical associates.” • Saudi Arabia recently opened its first PA program.
October SCMS The Message 4
The Impact of Health Care Reform on SCMS Foundation Work
Immigrants here legally for five years are eligible for Medicaid; those here less than five years are eligible for the Health Benefit Exchange.
By Lee Taylor Director Strategic Initiatives
The Affordable Care Act is just beginning to roll out. A major expansion of Medicaid is set to take effect and enrollment is now open for Washington’s Health Benefit Exchange with coverage beginning on January 1, 2014. As positive as we expect the benefits of these programs to be, the transition will be complex and the major challenges will remain.
The Good News: Washington’s Medicaid Expansion will provide a significant boost in health care coverage for low-income individuals and families, extending coverage to anyone below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level ($32,499/year for a family of four). According to the Washington State Health Care Authority, there could be as many as 325,000 new Medicaid clients added over the next few years, including a quarter of a million individuals who were not previously eligible and 75,000 who were not aware of their eligibility. The Washington Health Benefits Exchange (WHBE) offers a streamlined online marketplace for individuals and families to find and compare health insurance plans on an apples-to-apples basis. The plans offered through the WHBE Healthplanfinder meet strict benefit and quality standards and must include essential services like visits to the doctor and the emergency room, maternity care, and preventive screenings and immunizations. Tax credits to offset the cost of these plans will be accessible through the same portal for individuals and families that qualify.
The Challenges: Many people will remain uninsured. The practical affordability of insurance through the Health Benefit Exchange is still unknown. Pricing of plans from the Exchange is expected soon, but even with subsidies, plans may still be unaffordable for many. Specifically, some may find that the relatively small penalty for not obtaining insurance is preferable to a monthly premium that significantly shrinks their already tight budgets. Changes in life circumstances — e.g., income, employment status, pregnancy — can cause movement from Medicaid eligibility to ineligibility as well as movement from one Medicaid insurance plan to another. Differing eligibility levels can split families across different plans and provider networks. For example, Medicaid will cover a pregnant mother and child, but the father would need to get coverage through the Health Benefit Exchange. Undocumented immigrants, certain religious groups, Native American tribes and incarcerated individuals are not eligible.
In other words, this will be a complex transition and there will remain many individuals who, for one reason or another, are uninsured during periods of illness or injury. In these cases, the question of care will not be substantively different than it is today. Do we leave these individuals to suffer until they show up in the emergency room—at which point care is less successful and more costly to the community? Or do we take the long view by working toward a community that maximizes physical and fiscal health simultaneously?
Where Do We Go From Here? In many ways, the Spokane County Medical Society Foundation was built for precisely this sort of transition. Our various initiatives are designed to fill in the gaps in our health care system, wherever and whatever they may be. This has always entailed maximum flexibility amid ever-changing circumstances and many of the coming changes will create opportunities for Project Access to put its network and experience into use toward smoothing the transition for patients and medical professionals. The community clinics, for instance, are expected to be overwhelmed by the flood of new Medicare patients coming into the system. Discussions with our community partners have affirmed that Project Access will be ideally poised to assist in the normalization of this load by redirecting and coordinating services through major providers of primary care services— Providence Health Care, Group Health, Rockwood Health System, CHAS, Spokane Falls Community Clinic, and Native health— diffusing the load across the system more efficiently than would otherwise be the case. Two other initiatives, the Hot Spotters Group and H3 (Homeless, Housing, & Health) focus specifically on populations that are unlikely to engage with the health care system without our proactive intervention—those who are highly vulnerable due to homelessness and/or extreme behavioral health issues. These patients tend to over-utilize emergency response systems and hospital emergency departments at great cost to the taxpayer, with virtually zero long-term improvement in their own health. These Spokane Medical Society Foundation programs facilitate intensive coordination between community providers of medical and behavioral health care, substance abuse treatment, housing, and other social services with a goal of long-term stabilization, broad-based improvement in the patient’s health outlook, and measurable cost savings across the health care system. We are excited about the future and ready to continue acting as a broad and adaptable health care safety net for individuals and families in Spokane County. We look forward to playing a vital role in this transition and working with our community partners to maximize the health of our citizens.
October SCMS The Message 5
Group Aims to Improve Community Health with School Drop-Out Early Intervention
There is a distinct problem: students dropping out of school – for whatever reason – are behind the eight ball before they can obtain a valid driver’s license or register to vote.
By Kevin Dudley, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Greater Spokane Incorporated
A group of nonprofits in Spokane have teamed up to keep students from dropping out of school with the end goal of improving community health.
“Anytime we look at any type of health issue by education, those with less education have poorer health”
Whether or not a person graduates from high school often determines how healthy they’ll be in their adult years. Research shows health deficiencies have a relationship with educational attainment. According to the Spokane Regional Health District’s (SRHD) Health Inequities in Spokane County study, those without a high school diploma in Spokane County have a 46 percent chance of living in poverty, while for those with a high school diploma or GED, the likelihood of living in poverty is 31.1 percent. Neither figure is good, though an almost 15 percent drop in the likelihood of living in poverty is a significant difference. “Anytime we look at any type of health issue by education, those with less education have poorer health,” said Lyndia Wilson, the Disease Prevention and Response Director at the SRHD.
Priority Spokane, an affiliate of Greater Spokane Incorporated, was recently awarded a $200,000 grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The funds are being used to establish a program to identify at-risk middle school students who are beginning to show a pattern of truancy. Currently, the program is for the middle schools in Spokane Public Schools, but the hope is that this program can expand to other Spokane County school districts, and even at the elementary level.
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Providence Spokane Heart Institute proudly welcomes new specialists to our team.
Providence Spokane Heart Institute is committed to providing the highest quality care to patients with cardiovascular disease. Our specialized physicians cover every aspect of cardiovascular care, including disorders of the heart, arteries, veins, valves and peripheral blood vessels. Staff who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease work together in highly integrated and collaborative teams to provide patients superior cardiac care. Matthew Forrester, MD, conventional cardiothoracic surgery, heart transplant & circulatory assist mechanical heart implantation Providence Northwest Heart & Lung Surgical Associates 122 W. 7th Ave., Suite 110, Spokane, WA 99204 (509) 456-0262
Matthew Forrester, MD Mark Harwood, MD
Steven Le, MD
Sean Spangler, MD
Mark Harwood, MD, cardiology and electrophysiology Steven Le, MD, cardiology Sean Spangler, MD, cardiology and heart failure Providence Spokane Cardiology 122 W. 7th Ave, Suite 450, Spokane, WA 99204 (509) 455-8820
To learn more about Providence Spokane Heart Institute and a full listing of specialists, visit psheart.org, or call (509) 47-HEART.
October SCMS The Message 6
October SCMS The Message 7
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
“If we continue to raise the education level in the community, in the long run, (people) will see less diabetes and other chronic diseases,” Wilson said.
Here’s how it works: When a student accrues four unexcused absences in a school year, the student and his or her parent(s) or guardians will be invited to meet with a Community Attendance Support Team (CAST) – a board made up of educational and community representatives – to discuss why the pattern of truancy is occurring and look at ways to improve the student’s attendance. Once the CAST determines what is keeping these kids from going to school, it works with the student and his or her family, providing the support it might need. Dr. Mary Beth Celio of Northwest Decision Resources conducted a study for Spokane Public Schools in 2012 called “Getting to Graduation and Beyond.” Celio’s research showed that almost half of the amount of dropouts in Spokane Public Schools in 2008 and 2010 could have been identified as “at-risk” in elementary or middle school. The CAST looks to find those at-risk students early enough to steer them in the right direction. “It’s a perfect time to intervene, refer them to the community resources and get them back on the right track,” Wilson said.
On its surface, the CAST helps keep kids in school. Its larger impact, though, is community health. Eventually, May and Wilson both would like to see the CAST process become statewide policy. Both agree that the Becca law is good and needed, but early intervention should be adopted as well in order to prevent the juvenile court system from being the only solution. In order for the process to become statewide policy, the community will need proof that the system is working. That’s why two WSU researchers are partnering with Priority Spokane to analyze the process and to evaluate whether intervening at four unexcused absences will improve the likelihood that these at-risk children will graduate. Improving community health is a tall task, but a dedicated group in Spokane is working to do exactly that, with a smart approach and a strategic mindset.
The current “Becca Bill” in Washington drives the current practice of turning students over to the Juvenile Court system after five unexcused absences in a month or ten in a year. The CAST aims to reach those students before they are required to enter the court system. “The purpose of it is to intervene with a student quickly and in restorative ways, non-punitive ways,” said Alisa May, Executive Director of Priority Spokane. “We try and find out what is happening in the family, get the student on track and get them reengaged with school.” Not every truancy story is the same and many times parental issues are at the root. “When parents aren’t educated it is not always important to them that their child become educated, which creates cycles of generational poverty,” May said. Stats from the SRHD back up that claim. According to its report, the SRHD says, “Children whose parents did not finish high school are 23.4 times more likely to live in poverty than children whose parents received an advanced degree in Spokane County.” Those living in poverty do not have access to the resources that others have, such as nutritious food, quality childcare or preventative health screenings. According to the SRHD report, the lower an adult’s income, the more likely they are to experience poor mental health and have diabetes, for example.
October SCMS The Message 8
SCMS Members’ Special Event at Triple Play Family Fun Park On Saturday, September 7, 2013 174 SCMS members, staff and family members enjoyed a fun-filled day at Triple Play Family Fun Park in Hayden Lake, ID. The day started with an all-you-can- eat pizza buffet and spending a little time getting to know one another. Then it was off to miniature golf, bowling, rock wall climbing and playing at the Raptor Reef Water Park. We’re hoping even more members are able to join in the fun next year! For more photos, visit the SCMS website at www.spcms.org.
It was a real success at getting together doctors who don’t usually see each other anymore - just a few years ago, I knew many more doctors and routinely saw them in the hospital, but under current fractionalization the majority of us are becoming strangers to one another. At the event, I met pediatricians, psychiatrists, and some subspecialists I never would have met otherwise. This, to me, is the SCMS performing a good function for the community.
October SCMS The Message 9
Thanks so much to you and your colleagues who made the Triple Play event possible this past weekend. What a wonderful idea! My family and I had a great time. It was so nice to have a family oriented event like this.
I really enjoy these types of family events the organization sponsors. Thank you for hosting the event yesterday. We had a great time and keep saying how much fun it was!
Providence proudly welcomes Bryan Mitchell, MD & William Page, MD to our team.
Orthopedic specialists William Page, MD, and Bryan Mitchell, MD recently joined Providence NorthEast Washington Medical Group (PNEWMG) in Colville and Chewelah. Dr. Page specializes in hand and upper extremity orthopedic surgery. Dr. Mitchell specializes in sports medicine and general orthopedics. Providence Orthopedic physicians are board-certified by The American Board of Orthopedic Surgery, are sub-specialty trained, and offer patients a superior level of surgical and non-surgical orthopedic methods of treatment.
PROVIDENCE ORTHOPEDICS To refer a patient or for information please call 509.684.3701. phc.org
October SCMS The Message 10
Providence NorthEast Washington Medical Group – Garden Homes 143 Garden Homes Drive Colville, WA 99114
Membership Recognition for October 2013
In The News
Thank you to the members listed below. Their contribution of time and talent has helped to make the Spokane County Medical Society the strong organization it is today. 20 Years Paul M. Craig, MD Phillip W. Curtis, Jr., MD David R. Duba, MD Angelo S. Ferraro, MD Joni C. Nichols, MD Karen A. Stanek, MD, PhD Alexandra M. Wardzala, MD
10/13/1993 10/13/1993 10/13/1993 10/13/1993 10/13/1993 10/13/1993 10/13/1993
10 Years Katherine L. Griffing, MD
10/29/2003
Incyte Diagnostics Announces the Expansion of Its Women’s Health Services Incyte Diagnostics welcomes Bruce A. Britton, M.D. to its growing Women’s Health Department. Prior to joining Incyte Diagnostics, Dr. Britton was practicing pathology in Missoula, MT. Dr. Britton has 20 years of pathology experience. He is board certified in anatomic and clinical pathology with subspecialty training in gynecologic pathology and breast pathology at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. Dr. Britton will join Incyte Diagnostics in early October.
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In Memoriam
Clinton A. “Pete” Piper, M.D. Born April 5, 1924 to Clinton and Barbara Piper in Pittsfield, NH, Clinton A. “Pete” Piper spent his childhood in Merrimac, MA. At age eight, his father died and he went to work on a farm to help his mother support his two sisters during the Depression. His father’s fatal lung condition instilled in him the desire to study medicine. He achieved top scholastic performance that resulted in a scholarship to Boston University. The day after Pearl Harbor, Pete enlisted and was streamlined through Harvard Medical School. As a thoracic and vascular surgeon, he served in Korea and Japan, and became the Chief of Surgery at Madigan Army Hospital in Tacoma, WA. He retired from the Army as a full colonel after 20 years of service to his country. In 1943 he married Katherine “Chummy” Hall and together they raised their three daughters. During their 29 year marriage, they shared their passions for the mountains, hunting, fishing, and horseback riding. In 1995 he married Patti Baxter. Together they traveled the globe. His volunteer commitments included the Big Brother Program, forming a lifelong bond with little brother Travis McClenny. In 1998 Pete was voted Big Brother of the Year. He was a member of the Pierce and Spokane County Medical Societies, the North Pacific Surgical Association, the Unitarian Universalist Church of Spokane and the Marketeers Investment Club. Pete passed away peacefully at his home on September 13, 2013. Preceded in death by his sister Betty Ann Matanis, Pete leaves behind his wife Patti of 17 years; his three daughters Karen, Linda and Suki; his sister Verna Bridges; grandchildren Cylus and Abigail Archer; little brother Travis McClenny and numerous nieces and nephews. He will be remembered for his stories, compassion, sense of humor, and huge heart.
Incyte Diagnostics Welcomes Bruce A. Britton, M.D. Incyte Diagnostics welcomes Bruce A. Britton, M.D. to its growing Women’s Health Department. Dr. Britton has 20 years of pathology experience and is board certified in anatomic and clinical pathology with subspecialty training in gynecologic and breast pathology. Learn more by visiting www.incytediagnostics.com or calling 509.892.2700 Proudly serving the greater Spokane healthcare community since 1957
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Learn more at an upcoming information meeting:
gonzaga.edu/mbahcm
MBA & MACC PROGRAMS
A Project Access Client’s Story
By Jim Ryan, Project Access Program Coordinator The physicians at Providence Medical Group - Kidney Care of Spokane have been dedicated donors of services to Project Access clients since 2008, providing a full range of kidney care diagnosis and treatment options, including ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, kidney biopsy, and dialysis. Dozens of Project Access clients have benefited from the generosity of these superb physicians. One such client is Tracy, a 49-year old woman who found herself battling chronic kidney dysfunction during a period of extended unemployment. Her unemployment benefits had run out. She exhausted her personal savings trying to make ends meet and treat her condition at the same time. Tracy was referred to Project Access by Community Health Association of Spokane (CHAS) and subsequently sent to see Dr. Reddy at Providence Medical Group - Kidney Care of Spokane.
Tracy was not a typical kidney patient. Ideally she would have been referred to an endocrinologist, but Project Access simply did not have access to endocrinology specialists due to limited capacity and Tracy could not afford to pay out-of-pocket to see one on her own. Dr. Reddy wanted to help Tracy treat her debilitating anemia so that she could get back to being productive and get her life back on track. To that end, they embarked on a 16-week course of iron transfusions. Tracy says that while she still has the underlying kidney dysfunction, she is not “looking better, feeling better,” and has been able to get back to work.
The team at Providence Medical Group - Kidney Care of Spokane was “fantastic to work with,” according to Tracy. “I never felt like I was a discount client.” She also wanted to “toot the horn” of Shelley, her care coordinator at the CHAS clinic on Maple, who steered her in the right direction from the beginning. “Regarding Project Access,” Tracy says “I would like to say I am so very grateful the organization exists. It’s a fantastic community resource. Providence Medical Group - Kidney Care of Spokane had this to say about their work with Project Access: As a community of Spokane physicians, caring for the less fortunate and the underinsured is a part of what we do every week. Project Access provides an invaluable platform bringing patients and doctors together. It allows us to tap into other resources generously made available by other clinics, testing facilities, and hospitals. When we can help to identify and manage a treatable condition early, then it helps make our community healthier and stronger. Kidney disease is a public health problem that isn’t often in the spotlight. Untreated kidney conditions can have a great impact on patients, their families, and our community. Caring for people is a privilege, and we are thankful to do our small part in making Project Access available to people in need. We asked Dr. Reddy, in particular, why he works with Project Access and what his experience has been working with our clients. “I participate because I consider it part of our duty to care for those in need, regardless of their financial situation,” he told us. “It’s my way of giving back to the community. In general, my experience has been that the patients are very grateful for the ability to see specialists and are usually some of my most compliant patients.”
Vijayakumar Reddy, MD
It is because of physicians like those at Providence Kidney Care Spokane—Dr. Chow, Dr. Malireddi, Dr. Mroch, Dr. Reddy, Dr. Tuttle, Dr. Guzman, Dr. Ojogho and Dr. Groza—that Project Access exists and is able to connect patients, such as Tracy, to the care they desperately need and would not have access to otherwise. Like many of our clients, Tracy might well have fallen into deeper financial, personal and physical distress. Instead, she is back at work and saving money again—some of which she intends to spend on alternative treatments that she hopes will help maintain the benefits achieved by the donated treatment she received from Providence Medical Group - Kidney Care Spokane.
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The following physicians and physician assistants have applied for membership and notice of application is presented. Any member who has information of a derogatory nature concerning an applicant’s moral or ethical conduct, medical qualifications or such requisites shall convey this to our Credentials Committee in writing to the Spokane County Medical Society, 104 South Freya Street, Orange Flag Building, Suite 114, Spokane, Washington, 99202.
PHYSICIANS Nair, Nandini, MD Cardiovascular Disease Med School: St George’s U (2000) Internship: Drexel U (2001) Residency: Drexel U (2003) Fellowship #1: Stanford U (2004) Fellowship #2: Hahnemann U Hospital (2007) Practicing with Providence Spokane Cardiology 09/2013 Muntean, Rebecca, MD Rheumatology Med School: U Din Oradea, Romania (2007) Internship: Providence Spokane Internal Medicine Residency (2009) Residency: Providence Spokane Internal Medicine Residency (2011) Fellowship: U of CA - Irvine (2013) Practicing with Providence Physicians Clinic of Spokane 09/2013 Eddy, Amy MD Internal Medicine Med School: U of Washington (2010) Internship: Providence Spokane Internal Medicine Residency (2011) Residency: Providence Spokane Internal Medicine Residency (2013) Practicing with Providence Medical Group- IM Hospitalists 10/2013 Davis, Joan E., MD Child/Adolescent Psychiatry Med School: St Christopher’s College of Medicine (2006) Internship: U of Wyoming (2007) Residency #1: U of Wyoming (2008) Residency #2: U of Washington (2010) Fellowship: Seattle Children’s Hospital (2013) Practicing with Providence Medical Group- Psychiatric Center 10/2013
PHYSICIANS PRESENTED A SECOND TIME Costa, Ruxandra, MD Neurology Practicing with PMG - Neurology 09/2013 Fralich, Laura S., MD Family Medicine Practicing with Columbia Medical Associates 09/2013 Houmard, Brenda Sue, MD Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Practicing with SRM Spokane 10/2013 Lessman, Katherine L., MD Obstetrics and Gynecology Practicing with Rockwood OB/GYN Center 08/2013 O’Connor, Rachel L., MD Diagnostic Radiology Practicing with Radia Inc. 09/2013
PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS Sutter, Matthew, PA-C Physician Assistant School: U of WA, MedEX NW (2013) Practicing with Orthopaedic Specialty Clinic of Spokane, PLLC 11/2013 Whetzel, Lindsay R., PA-C Physician Assistant School: Oregon Health Sciences U (2013) Practicing with Providence Medical Group- Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology 10/2013
I make house calls. Jurene Phaneuf SPECIALIZING IN P H Y S I C I A N R E L O C AT I O N S
Britton, Bruce, MD Anatomical and Clinical Pathology Med School: U of New Mexico (1988) Internship: Penrose Hospital (1989) Residency #1: Tripler Army Medical Center (1992) Fellowship: Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (1993) Practicing with InCyte Pathology 10/2013
C E L L : 5 0 9 -2 9 4 -119 2 O F F I C E : 5 0 9 - 5 3 5 -74 0 0 J U RE N E P H A N EU F @ G M A IL .C O M
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POSITIONS AVAILABLE PHYSICIAN (OB/GYN and Urgent Care) OPPORTUNITIES AT COMMUNITY HEALTH ASSOCIATION OF SPOKANE-Spokane Locations (CHAS) Enjoy a quality life/work balance and excellent benefits including competitive pay, generous personal time off, no hospital call, CME reimbursement, 401(k), full medical and dental, NHSC loan repayment and more. To learn more about physician employment opportunities, contact CHAS Human Resources at (509) 444-8888 or hr@chas.org. Visit our website to learn more and to apply www.chas.org. QTC MEDICAL GROUP is one of the nation’s largest private providers of medical disability evaluations. We are contracted through the Department of Veterans Affairs to manage their compensation and pension programs. We are currently expanding our network of Psychology, Psychiatry, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Family Medicine, Occupational Medicine, Internal Medicine and General Medicine providers for our Washington Clinics. We offer excellent hours and we work with your availability. We pay on a per exam basis and you can be covered on our malpractice insurance policy. The exams require NO treatment, adjudication, prescriptions to write, on-call shifts, overhead and case file administration. Please contact Maggie Dillon directly at (909) 978-3548 or mdillon@qtcm.com or visit our website www.qtcm.com to learn more about our company. PROVIDENCE FAMILY MEDICINE RESIDENCY SPOKANE Immediate opening with Providence Family Medicine Residency Spokane (PFMRS) for a full- time BC/BE FP physician who has a passion for teaching. PFMRS is affiliated with the University of Washington School of Medicine. We have seven residents per year in our traditional program, one per year in our Rural Training Track and also administer OB and Sports Medicine Fellowships. This diversity benefits our educational mission and prepares our residents for urban & rural underserved practices. We offer a competitive salary, benefit package and gratifying lifestyle. Please contact Linda Barkley, Program Assistant at (509) 459-0688 or Linda.Barkley2@providence.org. MID-LEVEL OPPORTUNITIES AT COMMUNITY HEALTH ASSOCIATION OF SPOKANE - Family Practice ARNP and Physician Assistant needed in Spokane, WA and Moscow, ID Enjoy a quality life/work balance and excellent benefits including competitive pay, generous personal time off, no hospital call, CME reimbursement, 401(k), full medical and dental, NHSC loan repayment and more. To learn more about employment opportunities, contact CHAS Human Resources at (509) 4448888 or hr@chas.org. Visit our website to learn more and to apply www.chas.org.
PROVIDENCE HEALTH & SERVICES has immediate opportunities for BE/BC Family Physicians to join our expanding primary care team in Spokane, eastern Washington’s largest city. Newborns to geriatrics, no OB. Regular 8-5 hours, five-day week. New physicians will join Providence Medical Group, our physicianled multispecialty medical group with clinics throughout the metropolitan area. Excellent compensation and benefits. Providence Medical Group (PMG) – Eastern Washington is our physician-led network of more than 200 primary and specialty care providers in multiple clinic locations in Spokane and Stevens County. PMG partners with some of the region’s most advanced hospitals: Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center & Children’s Hospital, Providence Holy Family Hospital, Providence Mount Carmel and Providence St. Joseph’s Hospital. Contact Mark Rearrick at mark.rearrick@providence.org or (509) 474-6605 for more information. PROVIDENCE MEDICAL GROUP (PMG) - Eastern Washington is recruiting for an excellent Family Medicine physician to join our care team in this scenic suburb of Spokane. Full-time opportunity with our growing medical group in what will be a large, stateof-the-art medical ambulatory center (construction completion target is spring 2014). No OB. Outpatient only. Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits. Providence Medical Group – Eastern Washington is our physician-led network of more than 200 primary and specialty care providers in multiple clinic locations in Spokane and Stevens County. PMG partners with some of the region’s most advanced hospitals: Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center & Children’s Hospital, Providence Holy Family Hospital, Providence Mount Carmel and Providence St. Joseph’s Hospital. Contact Mark Rearrick at mark.rearrick@ providence.org or (509) 474-6605 for more information. SPECTRUM HEALTHCARE RESOURCES has an immediate opportunity for a civilian Family Practice Physician at Fairchild Air Force Base. This contract position offers: Fulltime; Outpatient setting; Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 4:30pm; Manageable patient load (20-25 per day) and Shared on-call responsibilities (mostly telephone consulting). The position will have the following requirements: Current and unrestricted medical license; Successful completion of a family medicine residency; Board Certified by the ABFM or AOBFP; BLS, ACLS, PALS and Ability to work in a team setting. Contact Spectrum recruiter Lisa Paska for more information at Lisa_Paska@spectrumhealth.com or (314) 744-4107.
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Continuing Medical Education
Meetings/Conferences/Events
Rockwood Health System Breast and General Tumor Boards: The tumor boards are jointly sponsored by Rockwood Health System and the Spokane County Medical Society. Tumor Boards will be held weekly June – December 2013. Each Tumor Board is worth 1.0 Category 1 CME credits. For more information please contact Sharlynn M. Rima CME Coordinator at SRima@rockwoodclinic.com. Promoting Healthy Families (Practice Management Alerts from the American Medical Association) is designed to help physicians successfully talk about healthy behaviors with their adult patients in a way that may spark—and help sustain—positive changes for the whole family. The continuing medical education activity includes a video module, a detailed monograph and patient handout. These activities have been certified for AMA PRA Category 1 CreditTM. For more information www.ama-assn.org. HPV and HPV Vaccine: Strategies for Patient Management and Increasing Vaccination, a workshop intended for clinicians who diagnose and manage HPV infection, provide HPV vaccine, and/or provide vaccination education to patients and parents 2.5 hours of Category 1 CME credits, sponsored by the University of Washington Department of Medicine and University of Washington Department of Nursing. An update on HPV and HPV vaccines will be discussed in addition to addressing the barriers providers often face concerning vaccine hesitancy and series completion. Wednesday October 16 from 5:30pm to 8pm at St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Institute. Registration fee of $20 includes CME/CNE, materials, dinner and parking. Register at http://stdtoolkit.srhd.org/hpvcme. Presented by the Seattle STD/HIV Prevention Training Center, Spokane Regional Health District, Spokane County STD Medical Coalition, Washington State Department of Health Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunization Action Coalition of the Inland Northwest. Contact Anna Halloran at ahalloran@srhd.org for more information.
Institutional Review Board (IRB) - Meets the second Thursday of every month at noon at the Heart Institute, classroom B. Should you have any questions regarding this process, please contact the IRB office at (509) 358-7631. Spokane Guild of the Catholic Medical Association- is pleased to present a lecture by Father Robert Spitzer, SJ, PhD, on “The Scientific Evidence for the Existence of God”. Father Spitzer is the past president of Gonzaga University. He is an author, educator, philosopher, and founder of the Magis Center of Reason and Faith. Please join us on 3 October, Thursday evening at 6 p.m. at Providence Auditorium, Sacred Heart Medical Center. All health care professionals are welcome. Atheists and agnostics are especially welcome. For more information contact Al Oliva, MD at (509) 220-3586. National Environmental Health Association Courses sponsored by the CDC and EPA available. Courses include National Environmental Public Health Performance Standards Workshop: Building Local and National Excellence, Biology and Control of Insects and Rodents Workshop, Environmental Health Training in Emergency Response and Environmental Public Health Tracking 101. For more information go to the website at www.nehacert.org. Physician Family Alanon Group: Physicians, physician spouses or significant others and their adult family members share their experience, strength and hope concerning difficult physician family issues. This may include medical illness, mental illness, addictions, work-related stress, life transitions and relationship difficulties. We meet Tuesday evenings after 6 p.m. The format is structured by the 12-Step Alanon principles. All is confidential and anonymous. There are no dues or fees. To discuss whether this group could be helpful for you, please contact Bob at (509) 998-5324.
WSMA Medical Staff Leadership Workshop - Peer review can be a challenging endeavor, even for the most seasoned medical staff leader. WSMA’s new Medical Staff Leaders Workshop is designed to address the skills needed to help you be a more effective leader. The course will provide information on the fundamentals of peer review, identification of peer review “best practices,” effective communication skills and offer hands-on learning through role-play activities. The workshop is an allday event led by University of Washington’s Dr. Ed Walker and WSMA’s Director of Legal Affairs Denny Maher, MD, JD. Preregistration is required. The cost is $850. The workshop is limited to 36 physicians. To register, contact Lynda Sue Welch at (206) 441-9762 or lyndasue@wsma.org. The workshop will be held from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Friday, October 18, 2013 at the SeaTac Hilton Hotel. The WSMA is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. The WSMA designates this live activity for a maximum of 6 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. This activity meets the criteria for up to 6 hours of Category 1 CME credit to satisfy the relicensure requirements of the Washington State Medical Quality Assurance Commission. October SCMS The Message 17
REAL ESTATE Custom Home - Little Spokane River Valley For Sale Nestled on a slight hill overlooking the peaceful Little Spokane River Valley with 220 feet of waterfront acreage sits a beautiful custom home designed and built by the renowned architectural firm of Copeland Design and Construction. The home surroundings are wonderfully landscaped with paths that lead to the Little Spokane River and woods. The interior has natural wood details which accentuate each room. The many Hurd windows give panoramic views of the river valley. There are 4 bedrooms, library, sun room, master bedroom, master bath with imported European tile, great room with tiled gas fireplace, kitchen with Corian counters and bar seating, laundry room, mud room, large rec room, 2 and 1/2 baths, furnace room, utility/wine storage room and a 3-car attached heated garage. There is a heated green house with an adjacent fenced in garden area. A paver patio, back deck with hot tub and front porch allow for enjoyment of the pleasant summer evenings. The home has solar water heating and solar electric with backup batteries and generator. It is in the Mead school district and only 10 - 15 minutes from Providence Holy Family Hospital and 25 minutes from Providence Sacred Heart and Deaconess Hospitals. There are too many other details to list here. Please call: (509) 466-6947 or (509) 879-3770. Large Second Owner Custom Built Executive Home with unparalleled views of Liberty Lake and Spokane Valley on five acres available for sale or lease. Custom hardwood floors and woodwork throughout, cherry office shelves, cathedral ceilings, central air, three car garage, brick porch, tile roof, large deck, three fireplaces, four bedrooms, four bathrooms, formal dining room, large kitchen, large eating room and den. Walk out basement, wood stove, kitchen and bathroom. Large 30’ x 100’ pole barn with separate utilities, two phase power, three twelve-foot overhead doors. 30 x 60 sports court. Large animals allowed. Water rights included. 4Kw grid interactive, portable battery backup solar system available. Offered for $600k or for lease $3250, no pets/smokers. Seller is a real estate broker at (509) 220-7512. Beautiful Priest Lake Cabins for Rent Our newly restored cabins are located on the historic site of Forest Lodge in the entrance to the scenic Thorofare. Two cabins are available. Each sleeps 8. They are located at the water’s edge, have gorgeous views, bordered by the National Forest and 18 acres of private land. The beds and furnishings are all new and cabins have all the amenities - decks, docks, beaches with fire pits, walking trails and forest to explore. Boating, hiking, swimming, sailing, snowmobiling in winter or just relaxing in the sunshine. You will enjoy a peaceful, fun-filled vacation at this amazing site. For available dates, pricing, photos and details call Jeannie or John at (509) 448-0444.
Comfortable Three-Bedroom Home in quiet neighborhood for rent. Good storage in kitchen, gas stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, washer/dryer and fireplace. Comes furnished or can negotiate. Close to Hamblen Grade School, Sac Middle School and Ferris High School. Three bedrooms, three baths, large living room, family/TV room, master bedroom has private bathroom, two-car garage. Large windows in living room look out into large fenced yard with automatic sprinkler system (front and back). Snow blower and lawnmower provided. Call (408) 594-1234 or (509) 993-7962. One of Copeland’s Best North Side Homes on over fifty acres with meadows, trees, complete privacy and gorgeous views. This home offers contemporary living at its best featuring four bedrooms, four bathrooms, three-car garage, hard rock maple floors, cabinets and built-ins, three balcony decks plus a patio with water feature. The second level has a distinctive master suite with custom built-ins, large walk-in closet, lovely master bath with lowboy toilet and bidet, a large sitting room with built-in shelving, raised gas fireplace and extraordinary views! The main floor great room boasts granite, stainless appliances, oversized pantry and very functional laundry suite with chute. Super-efficient geothermal heating and cooling affords economical year ‘round comfort. Twenty minutes from Holy Family Hospital. Mead schools! $750,000 Call Marilyn Amato at (509) 979-6027.
MEDICAL OFFICES/BUILDINGS South Hill – on 29th Avenue near Southeast Boulevard Two offices now available in a beautifully landscaped setting. Building designed by nationally recognized architects. Both offices are corner suites with windows down six feet from the ceiling. Generous parking. Ten minutes from Sacred Heart or Deaconess Hospitals. Phone (509) 535-1455 or (509) 768-5860. North Spokane Professional Building has several medical office suites for lease. This 60,000 sf. professional medical office building is located at N. 5901 Lidgerwood directly north of Holy Family Hospital at the NWC of Lidgerwood and Central Avenue. The building has various medical office spaces available for lease from 635 to 10,800 contiguous usable square feet. and has undergone extensive remodeling, including two new elevators, lighted pylon sign, refurbished lobbies, corridors and stairways. Other tenants in the building include urgent care, family practice, pediatrics, dermatology, dentistry, pathology and pharmacy. Floor plans and marketing materials emailed upon request. A Tenant Improvement Allowance is available, subject to terms of lease. Contact Patrick O’Rourke, CCIM, CPM®with O’Rourke Realty, Inc. at (509) 624-6522, mobile (509) 999-2720 or psrourke@comcast.net.
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MARK YOUR CALENDARS Watch for more details!
2013 SCMS EVENTS Senior Physicians Dinner October 17 Thursday Manito County Club
Escape Fire Showing November 06 Wednesday Riverpoint Campus
Orange Flag Building
Phone: (509) 325-5010
104 South Freya Street, Suite 114
Fax: (509) 325-5409
Spokane, WA 99202-4686
Website : www.spcms.org
Spokane County
MEDICAL SOCIETY
Our business is turning them into realities. We do this by helping our clients plan and manage their financial resources. Fee-only.
For a complimentary consultation or brochure, call: Greer Gibson Bacon, CFP速 (509) 838-4175 or (888) 864-8827 assetplanning.com October SCMS The Message 19
October SCMS The Message 20
PRSRT STD
SPOKANE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY - ORANGE FLAG BUILDING 104 S FREYA ST STE 114 SPOKANE, WA 99202
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G lf G lf Cause Boobies FOR THE
Sunday, October 13 1 pm • $65 Coupons for food and EPC
$10 of each entry is donated to Spokane’s American Cancer Society.
th
FOR A
Sunday, October 20th 11 am shotgun start • $60
Proceeds benefit Nick Cuchessi and his fight against testicular cancer. Lots of prizes and optional 2 man “A” game (modified chapman).
1 800 523-2464 | CI R C L I N G R AV E N .COM |
/ C I R C L I N G . R AV E N
25 miles south of Coeur d’Alene at the junction of US-95 and Hwy-58