Magali Valdez EDITOR / PHOTOGRAPHER
Jill Baker
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Ivone Valdez COPYWRITER
Devyn Lynch SOCIAL MEDIA
Growing Stronger Together
As we continue to grow and evolve, I’m thrilled to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to the 12 new providers who have joined the CBHA family! Each one brings their unique expertise, passion, and commitment to our mission of improving lives and strengthening communities. We’re so excited to have you on board and can’t wait to see the incredible impact you’ll make. Together, we’re building a future where compassionate care and support are at the heart of everything we do.
We are incredibly grateful to share the inspiring journey of 5-yearold Eleazar Roa, a true beacon of hope and resilience. Eleazar faced a challenging battle with cancer, but with his strength and determination, as well as the unwavering support of his loving family, he has come through as a true fighter. Thank you to Eleazar’s family for allowing us to be a part of this deeply personal journey. Your story is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. It’s the personal connections and compassionate care that truly make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Stories like these inspire us all to continue our efforts and focus on the needs of our community. To read more about Eleazar’s incredible journey, visit page 4-5.
Our commitment to nurturing talent within CBHA is exemplified through our Leadership Development Program. This initiative empowers the next generation of leaders, enabling them to grow, take on new challenges, and contribute meaningfully to our success. We believe investing in people is crucial to our longterm growth and sustainability.
I’m excited to shine a spotlight on Daniela Voorhies, our incredible Wahluke Clinic Manager. Daniela’s journey with CBHA has been one of hard work, dedication, and growth. Starting with a passion for helping others, she has taken on multiple projects that have allowed her to grow both professionally and personally. Her motivation and commitment to CBHA have made a lasting impact on our team and the patients we serve. Daniela truly embodies the values we hold dear at CBHA, and we are so proud to have her as a part of our team. Be sure to read her full story on page 7.
On the community front, our 2024 Color Run was a huge success, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the
incredible community support! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered, and cheered us on. It was a day filled with fun, fitness, and, most importantly, a strong sense of unity. We loved seeing so many come together to support childhood wellness, and it truly made the event special. We’re already excited for next year’s run and can’t wait to see even more of you there! Thank you for helping make a difference in the lives of kids and families in our community. See how much money you helped raise and the number of participants who helped make this event a success, head over to page 14.
I’m absolutely thrilled to share some exciting news—CBHA has been recognized as one of Modern Healthcare’s Best Places to Work and has earned the Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in Healthcare award! These prestigious honors are a true testament to the hard work, passion, and dedication of our incredible team. I couldn’t be prouder of the culture we’ve built together—one that’s focused on support, growth, and making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. These awards reflect the amazing people we have here at CBHA, and I’m excited for all that’s ahead as we continue to grow and thrive as a team! Learn more about these prestigious awards and what they mean for CBHA, check out the full details on page 17.
Lastly, we’re excited to welcome our CBHA Dental Resident, who is joining us for the year as part of our dental residency program. This program is a wonderful opportunity for hands-on learning, and we’re proud to offer a platform for the next generation of dental professionals. Our resident will gain valuable experience while contributing to the care we provide, ensuring a bright future for dental health in our community. You might even meet them at your next dental appointment! Check out the amazing work our dental resident will be doing during their time at CBHA, head over to page 19.
Thank you to everyone for your continued commitment to excellence. Together, we’re making a lasting difference!
Nieves Gomez, CBHA President and CEO
Elezar Roa's Triumph Over Leukemia
Elezar Roa is a vibrant 5-year-old and a living example of resilience and strength. His journey took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with leukemia, shaking his family’s world. His story is not just one of illness, but of hope, perseverance, and the power of community support.
At the time, Elezar was only 2 years old when he went in for a regular well-child visit with Vanessa Frank, Pediatric ARNP, who noticed irregularities during a routine well-child visit. Vanessa's attention to detail and commitment to her patients led her to order further tests, and refer Elezar to a specialist, who later confirmed his leukemia diagnosis. This early detection was critical in getting him the treatment he needed as quickly as possible.
During the most difficult times, Elezar’s parents had to navigate an emotional rollercoaster. “We quickly moved into the Ronald McDonald house in Spokane and Elezar started his treatment,” says his mom, Brenda Roa. “It was tough because we had to be away from our other son while he stayed with our family.” The Roa family faced long hospital stays, emotional challenges, and logistical hurdles, all while doing their best to maintain a sense of normalcy for all three of their children.
One of the key lessons Brenda learned was to lean on those around her. “Cry if you need to, let it out, and lean on whoever’s there,” she advises other parents in similar situations. It was this support—both from friends, family, and their community—that helped the Roa family get through the darkest days. The kindness they received ranged from meals dropped off at their home to heartfelt encouragement.
Elezar’s family also had the opportunity to participate in a special parade, organized by a close friend and supported by CBHA, the Othello Police Department, the Othello Fire Department, and the Othello School District. What started as a simple idea snowballed into an event that brought the whole community together to support Elezar. The parade, which included fire trucks, police cars, and school buses, brought joy and a sense of celebration for his bravery during such a tough journey.
Well child exams are so important! At these appointments, we make sure that your child is reaching their milestones and growing healthy.
Vanessa Frank Pediatric ARNP
Thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Elezar’s dream beach getaway came true. He wished to swim and eat shrimp, and Make-A-Wish made it happen by sending him and his family to the Aulani Disney Resort in Hawaii. The resort offered fun activities like character meet-and-greets, a Luau, trickor-treating, and making Mickey ears. Elezar also enjoyed stunning sunsets, spotting sea turtles, and, of course, his favorite food— shrimp. It was the perfect, magical escape for Elezar and his family after a tough journey. Elezar said, “I had sooo much fun!”
“Well child exams are so important!” says Vanessa Frank. “At these appointments, we make sure that your child is reaching their milestones and growing healthy. Because Brenda was consistent in scheduling her child’s exams, we were able to catch his diagnosis early and start treatment earlier, which lead to the success of him becoming Cancer free!”
Elezar’s family hopes to continue spreading awareness about childhood cancer and the importance of regular well-child exams to inspire other families to remain hopeful through tough times. While there are still challenges ahead, Elezar's story serves as a powerful reminder that, with support, hope, and perseverance, the toughest battles can be overcome.
We will always be here to walk you through your health journey and celebrate the big and small milestones in your family’s lives! Wellchild checkups are important! If you haven’t scheduled your child’s exam, now is the time to do so! Visit CBHA.org or call/text
509.488.5256
Douglas Jahns welcome
ARNP, FAMILY PRACTICE PASCO CLINIC
“I want to work with you, my patients, to help you live healthier, happier lives by providing you with the information, tools, and choices you need to reach your health goals.”
Douglas Jahns, ARNP, was born and raised in Othello, where his passion for helping others began at a young age. Whether it was fixing tires or lending a hand to someone in need, Doug always found ways to assist people. This drive led him to pursue a career in healthcare, earning his Nurse Practitioner degree from Gonzaga University.
Now at CBHA, Doug is dedicated to providing primary care that helps patients address health issues early and live healthier, happier lives. In his exam room, he ensures patients have the knowledge and resources they need to reach their health goals. When Doug isn’t caring for patients, he enjoys kayaking, hiking, and playing video games.
Dr. Kristin Comstock welcome
FAMILY PRACTICE
OTHELLO CLINIC
“As a provider, I’m passionate about caring for the whole person and supporting my patients through every stage of life. Whether it’s welcoming a new baby or navigating the challenges of aging, I believe in providing compassionate, full-spectrum care that focuses on overall well-being.”
Dr. Kristin Comstock grew up in the tiny town of Roseau, Minnesota, where her love for medicine first sparked. A high school medical class that let her shadow different healthcare professionals sealed the deal on her becoming a doctor.
She earned her degree from the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth and went on to the University of Minnesota Medical School, specializing in rural healthcare. After completing her training in southern Minnesota, Dr. Comstock relocated to Colville, Washington, where she practiced for five years.
Outside of work, Dr. Comstock loves hiking, baking up delicious treats, and diving into arts and crafts.
Employee Spotlight
Elevating to Excellence: Daniela Voorhies
At CBHA, we believe in taking care of both our patients and our employees. By investing in the future of our staff, we empower them to better serve our communities. Our programs, like Ed Bucks and 529 College Savings, encourage our team members to pursue further education while receiving guidance from our leadership to achieve their career goals.
Daniela Voorhies, Wahluke Clinic Manager, exemplifies how dedication and CBHA’s support can help employees grow and advance within the organization.
Daniela started as a Pharmacy Assistant in May 2016. Over the years, through hard work and continuous learning, she advanced to Pharmacy Services Supervisor in February 2017 and eventually became the Wahluke Clinic Manager in October 2021.
Daniela credits her journey to a combination of personal motivation and the support she received from CBHA. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Central Washington University before working with CBHA and later pursued an MBA in Healthcare Management from Western Governors University, utilizing CBHA’s Ed Bucks program. The decision to go back to school was fueled by a desire for personal development and opening new doors for career advancement.
Throughout her time at CBHA, Daniela took on several projects that helped her grow both professionally and personally. She played an integral role in initiatives such as Pickpoint, school health screenings, Synctimes, our new Royal City Clinic, and community outreach events, and even helped develop the PSR Training Manual. CBHA’s commitment to professional growth made it easier for her to balance work, life, and studies with flexible scheduling and financial support.
Now, as the Wahluke Clinic Manager, Daniela oversees daily operations and is currently planning the first annual PSR training event. Daniela’s journey is a testament to the opportunities available within CBHA for those willing to put in the effort and stay committed to their goals. “Determine your path, chat with your supervisor, and communicate your goals. We are here to help and want you to succeed!" says Daniela.
At CBHA, our employees' success is also our success. We are committed to fostering their growth by encouraging them to expand their knowledge and skills at every opportunity. Our leadership team is always here to provide guidance and support, cheering them on every step of the way as they achieve their goals.
CBHA in Action: Giving Back to Our Community
Through Summer Events
This summer, CBHA was deeply involved in a wide range of community events, demonstrating our commitment to supporting and giving back to those we serve.
From participating in local parades to hosting family nights and dress-up days, our staff showed up in full force to engage with the community. We organized staff lunches to foster team spirit, while also taking part in important community outreach initiatives such as car seat safety Clinics and offering physicals for our farmworkers.
Partnering with local schools and police departments, we worked together to strengthen the bonds of our community.
Every event was an opportunity for our staff to volunteer their time and expertise, reinforcing our mission to not only provide health care but to actively support the well-being of our neighbors.
It was a reminder that being a part of this community means giving back and lifting each other up.
If you’re passionate about making a difference and want to be part of an organization that truly values community, apply today and join us in giving back.
Together, we can create a stronger, healthier future for all.
Being part of this community means giving back and lifting each other up. Every event is an opportunity to connect, support, and make a lasting impact.
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Dr. Sarah Ayala welcome
DO, FAMILY PRACTICE OTHELLO & WAHLUKE CLINIC
“My passion lies in providing compassionate, patient-centered care, particularly in rural communities. Together, we can navigate your health journey.”
Dr. Sarah Ayala, originally from Sacramento, California, completed her undergraduate studies at UC San Diego and earned her medical degree from Touro University. Dr. Ayala went on to complete her family medicine residency in Central Washington, gaining valuable hands-on experience in Ellensburg and Yakima.
Drawn to CBHA by its exceptional care and the warmth of the Othello community, Dr. Ayala is passionate about rural medicine and eager to contribute to the community’s well-being. She believes in building strong, collaborative relationships with patients and tailoring care to meet individual needs.
Dr. Ayala looks forward to becoming an integral part of the community and helping guide patients on their health journey.
Dr. Jordan Earl welcome
OPTOMETRIST
OTHELLO CLINIC
“I’m committed to providing you with the best possible care. I’ve worked hard to learn about eyes, how to care for them, and how to care for my patients. Let’s get you to your healthiest you!”
Dr. Jordan Earl, originally from Moses Lake, always knew he wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. His fascination with eyes began during school, leading him to earn a Doctorate of Optometry from the Arizona College of Optometry after completing his undergraduate studies at BYU-Idaho.
Dr. Earl is passionate about the unique insights that eyes can provide into overall health, explaining that they are the only part of the body where blood vessels can be examined without surgery. When he’s not caring for patients at CBHA, Dr. Earl enjoys playing the guitar, reading, hiking, and playing tennis. He’s dedicated to helping his patients achieve their healthiest selves through expert eye care.
Sarah Anderson welcome
ARNP, FAMILY PRACTICE WAHLUKE CLINIC
“As a provider, I focus on listening to my patients, understanding their individual needs, and working together to create personalized care plans that genuinely work for them. I’m excited to bring my experience and passion for patient-centered care to you and this community.”
Sarah Anderson is an ARNP at CBHA who grew up in Seattle and has lived in Ellensburg for the past 20 years. She completed two Clinical rotations with CBHA under Dr. Atfeh while attending Washington State University, where she earned her doctorate in nursing. With over 12 years of nursing experience, including 8 years in emergency care, Sarah brings a wealth of knowledge to her role.
Drawn to CBHA's commitment to holistic, high-quality care, Sarah values listening to her patients, understanding their unique needs, and collaborating with them to create personalized care plans that truly work. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys hiking, reading fiction, and spending time with her family and golden doodle. She is excited to bring her experience and passion for patient-centered care to the CBHA community.
Larissa Garza welcome
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ASSOCIATE OTHELLO SCHOOL DISTRICT & OTHELLO CLINIC
"Growing up in a Hispanic community, I saw how mental health was often overlooked. As a provider, I’m here to create a supportive space where you feel heard and work together on your mental wellness."
Larissa Garza is a Behavioral Health Associate at CBHA, supporting both the Othello Clinic and students at Lutacaga and Scootney Elementary Schools.
A graduate of the University of Washington with a Master’s Degree in Social Work, Larissa is passionate about helping others prioritize their mental health. She believes in the strength of small communities and is dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, especially within Hispanic communities. Larissa strives to create a safe, supportive space where individuals feel heard and understood.
Outside of work, she loves spending time with family and friends, reading, and relaxing with a good Netflix show.
Stuart Brown welcome
PA-C, FAMILY PRACTICE OTHELLO CLINIC
“As a provider, I’m excited to work alongside my patients, learn together, and make a positive impact on their health and well-being.”
Stuart Brown is a Physician Assistant at CBHA, originally from Riverton, Utah. He earned his degree in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University, followed by his PA degree from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions.
Stuart is eager to work with patients, learn along the way, and make a positive impact in the community. He appreciates the slower pace and beauty of the rural area and looks forward to building strong relationships with his patients.
Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and camping, as well as spending time with his wife, daughter, and their cat.
Brent Landkammer welcome
PSYCHIATRIC ARNP
WAHLUKE & PASCO CLINICS
"When you come to see me, know that I’ll treat you the way I’d want my own family to be treated—with care, attention, and respect. I’m here to listen, understand, and help you on your journey to better mental health.”
Brent Landkammer is a Psychiatric ARNP at CBHA. He grew up in Clarkston, Washington, and holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from the University of Idaho. With over 15 years of experience as a licensed mental health counselor, Brent’s passion for helping others led him to further his career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Since graduating from Gonzaga University in 2018, Brent has been dedicated to serving the Tri-Cities community, where he has treated patients for the past five years. Brent approaches every patient with the same level of care, attention, and respect he would offer his own family. He is committed to listening, understanding, and supporting each individual on their journey to better mental health.
BUSINESSES THAT DONATED OR SPONSORED 27
POUNDS OF COLOR THROWN 500
VOLUNTEERS
NEW ACTIVITIES: FACE PAINTING & CHALK COLORING
FOOD VENDORS 6
Jazmine Martinez welcome
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ASSOCIATE ROYAL AND OTHELLO SCHOOL DISTRICTS
“I love what I do and I hope to make people feel comfortable in sharing their innermost thoughts without fear of judgement.”
Jazmine Martinez is a Behavioral Health Associate at CBHA with deep roots in Othello. She’s a graduate from Central Washington University where she received her Bachelor’s in Phycology and then went on to Eastern Washington University to get her Masters of Social Work. Her passion for mental health and counseling is driven by her desire to give back to the community that raised her.
Jazmine primarily works with students in Othello and Royal City, supporting their mental health journeys in schools. She values creating a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to express themselves and navigate their path to wellness.
Outside of work, Jazmine enjoys traveling, trying new foods, and playing video games.
Steve Zirker welcome
PA-C, FAMILY PRACTICE PASCO CLINIC
“I’m here to do whatever I can to make you feel healthier and happier. I’m committed to providing care that supports not only your physical health but also your overall well-being.”
Steven Zirker is thrilled to return to CBHA, where he originally worked years ago. After gaining experience in urgent care and family practice, Steven realized how much he missed building long-term relationships with patients and knew CBHA was the right place to return.
His passion for medicine stems from his own health experiences, which have shaped his patient-centered approach. Steven is dedicated to providing the best medical care while building trust and supporting his patients’ overall well-being.
His goal is simple: to help patients feel healthier and happier. We’re excited to have Steven back at CBHA, where he will continue making a positive impact on the community he’s always valued.
TWO MAJOR AWARDS
for Excellence in Workplace Culture and Patient Care!
We’re beyond excited to announce that CBHA has earned two prestigious awards that showcase our commitment to both our employees and the communities we serve!
Best and Brightest Companies to Work For
CBHA has been named one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For by the National Association for Business Resources! This award celebrates organizations that go above and beyond to enrich their employees' lives. From leadership development to work-life balance, our team is at the heart of everything we do. As CEO Nieves Gomez says, "Our workforce drives our success—together, we serve with passion, purpose, position, and performance."
We know culture beats strategy, and by investing in our people, we continue to deliver the best care.
Nieves Gomez CBHA CEO
Modern Healthcare’s Best Places to Work in Healthcare
For the fifth year in a row, CBHA has earned a spot on Modern Healthcare’s list of the Best Places to Work in Healthcare—placing us among the top 150 healthcare organizations nationwide. This recognition is a direct result of the collaborative, supportive culture
we’ve built and the exceptional care we provide to our patients. As Kelly Carlson, CBHA’s Chief Administrative Officer, said, “This honor is a true testament to our amazing employees who deliver top-tier care every day.”
These awards reflect the incredible team at CBHA, and we’re proud to continue leading by example in both employee satisfaction and patient care. As Nieves Gomez puts it, “We know culture beats strategy, and by investing in our people, we continue to deliver the best care.”
Ready to join an award-winning team? At CBHA, we believe in supporting and developing our employees to make a lasting impact on the health and wellness of our communities.
Scan or visit CBHA.org/Careers to explore opportunities and join a culture of growth and excellence!
Educating Future Dentists
We are proud to partner with NYU Langone Health’s Advanced Education in General Dentistry Program to train the next generation of dentists. Residents join CBHA for a full year, gaining hands-on experience in comprehensive dental care with an emphasis on public health.
Our program is unique, covering preventative and restorative care, pediatrics, molar endodontics, surgical extractions, dentures, and more. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Ji Choi, residents utilize state-of-the-art technology such as CAD/CAM machines, dental implant equipment, and digital x-rays. This immersive experience equips residents with the skills and confidence to provide exceptional care in diverse Clinical settings.
As Dr. Choi explains, “Graduates leave confident and skilled, ready to excel as dentists.” Many residents, like Dr. Niki Tomblin, choose to stay: “CBHA helped me grow as a provider. The team, patients, and support inspired me to stay full-time.”
CBHA also gives back through school outreach, teaching kids about oral health and providing dental screenings.
Meet our current dental resident, Dr. Justin Chung, below.
Dr. Justin Chung welcome
DENTAL RESIDENT FROM LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY, LOMA LINDA, CALIFORNIA
“I’m excited to work with CBHA’s dental team and gain experience in implant dentistry,” says Dr. Chung. Dr. Chung was interested in coming to CBHA for our comprehensive patient care and advanced dental technology. “The Clinic is very up to date in the kind of dental procedures they can perform on patients,” says Chung. He is also happy to be able to complete his residency relatively close to where his family lives in Wenatchee. When he is not seeing patients, Dr. Chung enjoys playing the cello, hiking, napping and playing video games.
“I look forward to learning more about dentistry, patient care, and working in a health team,” says Dr. Chung.
THESE ARE SOME OF THE PROCEDURES THEY CAN DO WHILE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF OUR DENTAL PROVIDERS:
X-rays
Dental cleanings
Fillings
Root canals
Extractions
Bone grafting Crown lengthening Crowns
Fabricate dentures/flipperstemporary
Educate patients, and parents of the patients, on maintaining proper oral health
Communicate with dental staff on our team regarding patient treatment plans
Dr. Ahmed Raddad welcome
DENTIST CONNELL CLINIC
"I am committed to providing the best possible dental care and will do everything I can to ensure you feel comfortable, informed, and confident in your treatment. Your well-being is my top priority, and I’m here to support you every step of the way."
Dr. Ahmed Raddad, DDS, is a graduate of Rutgers School of Dental Medicine with a focus on Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Disorders. He also completed a residency in Operative and Esthetic Dentistry at Boston University.
Passionate about making a positive impact on people’s lives, he chose CBHA for its advanced technology, which allows him to provide top-quality care. Dr. Raddad is committed to ensuring patients feel comfortable and receive the best dental care possible.
Outside of work, he enjoys traveling and playing soccer with his kids.
Sarah Bannon welcome
ARNP, FAMILY PRACTICE
OTHELLO & CONNELL CLINICS
“I want to work with you, my patients, to help you live healthier, happier lives by providing you with the information, tools, and choices you need to reach your health goals.”
Sarah Bannon grew up in Michigan and began her career as a travel nurse, spending time in California and Alaska.
During her travels, she frequently passed through the Pacific Northwest and fell in love with the area, eventually making it her home. After her time as a travel nurse, Sarah returned to school and earned her Nurse Practitioner license from South University.
Inspired by her experience growing up with two brothers with special needs, she witnessed her mother’s compassionate care, instilling in Sarah a deep passion for attentive, heartfelt patient care. Outside the Clinic, Sarah enjoys hiking, camping, and is currently working toward her private pilot’s license.