OCTOBER 2026
Mason County’s future health care leaders Page 2
District’s Quality Awards and Recognition Page 3
DAISY Award Nursing Honorees Page 5
Futuras líderes de atención médica del condado de Mason Página 10
UNITED COMMUNITY, EMPOWERED PEOPLE, EXCEPTIONAL HEALTH
united community Introducing Mason County’s future health care leaders — Medical scholarships awarded for for District staff and high school students
Mason Health is strengthening the future of healthcare in Mason County through a growing commitment to education, workforce development, and student success.
A Shelton native, Sanchez-Barajas has watched family members battle cancer and seen first-hand the difference that providers can make when caring for sick people.
This year, the Mason Health Hospitalist Group launched a new scholarship program for students pursuing a four-year degree in the medical field. The hospitalist scholarship joins the District’s full-ride Health Sciences Academy nursing scholarship program and Mason Health Foundation’s medical scholarships administered through the Centennial Guild and Auxiliary chapters.
While attending Shelton High School, she participated in the Running Start program through Olympic College, earning recognition from both the National Honor Society and Olympic College’s Dean’s and President’s Lists.
Together, these investments reflect a strategic effort to develop a strong local healthcare workforce while helping students overcome financial barriers to higher education.
She also competed in track and field, worked as a cashier at a local food truck, volunteered as a camp counselor, and tutored fellow students in Algebra II.
In total, Mason Health Foundation has awarded $95,000 in scholarships this year, including the Hospitalist Group and the Centennial Guild and Auxiliary chapter scholarships. That figure is in addition to Mason Health’s three full-ride scholarships and financial assistance that have been offered.
New Hospitalist Scholarship strengthens workforce development strategy The Mason Health Foundation Hospitalist Group Scholarship Fund awarded its inaugural scholarship to Shelton High School senior Xiomara Sanchez-Barajas, recognizing her exceptional academic achievement, determination and commitment to a future career in medicine. Xiomara Sanchez-Barajas The scholarship supports students pursuing four-
year degrees that lead to careers in healthcare. Eligible fields include medicine, dentistry, nursing, physical therapy, pharmacy, nutrition, behavioral health, social sciences, biochemistry, bioengineering, laboratory medicine, and other health-related disciplines. The scholarship places special emphasis on first-generation college students, students with demonstrated financial need, and those committed to completing a four-year degree. Administered through Mason Health Foundation, the fund is supported by donations from the Mason Health Hospitalist Group. The scholarship review committee includes Douglas Lindahl, DO, Lead Hospitalist at Mason General Hospital; Jacqueline Gorzynski, MD, Mason Clinic-Primary Care; and Darren Cuevas, DO, Chief Medical Officer at Mason Health. “We are honored to provide the scholarship to such a worthy recipient,” Dr. Lindahl said.
“The scholarship committee was impressed by Xiomara’s accomplishments through her high school years and her drive to excellence as she enters the university setting, working toward her ambitions of a degree in public health and becoming an oncologist.” October 2026, Vol. 42, No. 3
On the cover: Clockwise from left, Emma Oleachea, Health Sciences Academy and Auxiliary Foundation scholarship winner; Annora Smith, Centennial and Auxiliary Guild scholarship winner; Julia Solano-Martinez, Auxiliary scholarship winner; Jacob Udarbe, Health Sciences Academy scholarship winner; Aristina Uribe-Florea, Centennial and Auxiliary Guild scholarship winner; Monse Gonzalez-Cruz, Health Sciences Academy scholarship winner; and Xiomara Sanchez-Barajas, Hospitalist Group and Auxiliary scholarship winner. Composite cover photo and interior photos by Cooper Studios, unless otherwise noted.
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She is on track to be the first member of her family to earn a bachelor’s degree.
In the fall, Sanchez-Barajas will attend the University of Washington School of Public Health, where she plans to pursue a degree in Public Health-Global Health before applying to medical school. “I had no words when I found I received this scholarship, and I never expected I would be chosen,” she said. “This scholarship will help me help others, especially my parents who have sacrificed their time, money and dreams to make my own dreams come true.”
Building the next generation of caregivers Mason Health also awarded three full-ride Health Sciences Academy Nursing Scholarships to Shelton High School seniors Monse Gonzalez-Cruz, Emma Oleachea and Jacob Udarbe. The scholarship covers tuition, books, uniforms, lab and simulation fees, and licensure costs associated with obtaining a nursing degree. “The healthcare scholarships and our partnership with Shelton School District are an investment in the future of healthcare in Mason County,” said Melissa Strong, MSN, RHCNOC, RN, Chief Nursing Officer. “By supporting aspiring nurses in our community, we are building a strong, compassionate workforce that will care for our neighbors for generations to come.” The program began in 2022, and over the years several of the recipients have continued on to work at Mason Health. Wyatt Anthis, Class of 2023, is now a registered nurse in the Medical-Surgical-Pediatrics Unit at Mason General Hospital and Carly VanAagten, Class of 2024, is now a registered nurse in the Emergency Department. Gonzalez-Cruz experienced a family crisis that shattered her world when she was in her sophomore year of high school. A season of emotional turmoil at home led to a dip in grades, and at the end of her junior year, she learned she was going to have a baby. “I remember feeling fear, uncertainty and even doubt about what my future would look Monse Gonzalez-Cruz like,” she wrote in her application essay for the scholarship. “The day I gave birth at Mason Health changed me forever. In the Birth Center, I experienced a level of compassion and care that I will never forget.” Gonzalez-Cruz had always dreamed of becoming a nurse, and now she wants to work at the Birth Center someday to be an advocate for other mothers, especially young ones who may feel alone or afraid.
exceptional health Oleachea also had an experience with a nurse that inspired her to pursue a career in health care — when she was a child, a nurse noticed that Oleachea and her siblings needed critical help and stepped in to alert authorities. “When I was younger … a nurse (helped) me and my siblings get out of the horrible situation we were in,” she wrote in her Emma Oleachea application essay. “I will be forever grateful to that nurse who got me and my siblings out of that house and to a place we would not have been in without her courage and bravery to speak out for those who couldn’t.” Oleachea now wants to be the one who helps others in tough situations get the support that they need. Udarbe’s life was shaped by the death of his premature brother, Thomas, before Udarbe was born. Listening to his parents share stories about their experience at the neonatal intensive care unit shaped Udarbe’s dreams to give hope to people in their darkest hours. “A nurse stayed for hours past her shift as Thomas’ health declined … If it weren’t for the Jacob Udarbe medical staff that extended Thomas’ time on Earth, and specifically that one nurse who gave hope to my mother, my parents would have stayed in that dark place,” Udarbe wrote in his application. “Trying again (was) a terrifying medical gamble. I can attribute my existence to the diligence and passion of that one nurse.” Udarbe wants to not only save lives but inspire patients: “I want to support people who need it most and offer the hope that meant so much to my family.” Shelton High School students can apply for the Mason Health Health Sciences Academy scholarship in early 2027.
A Community Tradition of Supporting Healthcare Education For decades, Mason Health Foundation’s Auxiliary and Centennial Guild chapters have distributed scholarships to support the next generation of health care workers. Both chapters award scholarships to high school youth across Mason County and to Mason Health employees. In its last year as a chapter of the Foundation, the Auxiliary awarded 18 medical scholarships totaling $30,000. The Foundation plans to continue awarding scholarships in honor of the Auxiliary chapter, for youth and District staff members. The Centennial Guild awarded 17 scholarships totaling $55,000 for the 2026-2027 academic year, in memory of former Centennial Guild member and Mason General Hospital nurse Kristi Armstrong. “The Centennial Guild is a small but mighty group of women who raise scholarship money each year,” said Guild Scholarship Chair Kim McElliot. “The money raised from these events goes toward our Kristi Armstrong Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship committee was thrilled with how many people applied this year.” The Guild’s scholarships support Shelton High School seniors, Mason Health employees, and Mason County residents pursuing careers in the medical field. To learn more email foundation@ masongeneral.com.
Mason Health recognized for excellence in quality and patient care Mason Health continues
to earn recognition for its commitment to quality, patientcentered care, and organizational excellence. This past year, the District has received several notable honors that reflect the dedication of team members across the organization and reinforce Mason Health’s vision to provide the best patient-centered care in the Pacific Northwest. Mason Health received national recognition for patient experience and satisfaction through the 2025 Excellence in Healthcare Awards presented by Professional Research Consultants (PRC), a leading healthcare intelligence organization. The Birth Center at Mason General Hospital earned a prestigious Five Star Award, placing it among the top 10% of healthcare organizations nationwide for Overall Hospital Rating, according to PRC’s 2025 Inpatient OB/GYN Services Normative Database. Additionally, Mason General Hospital’s Inpatient Services team received a Four Star Award, ranking in the top 25% nationally for Overall Hospital Rating based on the 2025 Inpatient Services Normative Database. Awards recognize the teams dedication to delivering outstanding care experiences and positive outcomes for patients.
“In rural healthcare, patient experience is deeply personal,” said Chief Nursing Officer Melissa Strong. “We are so proud of our team members.” Strong recently earned another achievement: the Rural Hospital CNO certification through the National Rural Health Association’s Center for Rural Health Leadership. The certification recognizes nurse leaders who demonstrate advanced expertise in the unique challenges and opportunities of rural healthcare leadership. The American Diabetes Melissa Strong, MSN, Association — the nation’s RHCNOC, RN leading organization committed to fighting diabetes — has renewed and recognized Mason Health’s diabetes education program for another four years, through the association’s Education Recognition Program. Mason Health’s diabetes education program is administered through the District’s Diabetes Wellness & Dietitian Services Sarah Fulkerson, RD, CDCES department and offers small-group classes and individual instruction for adults with Type 1 and 2 diabetes, prediabetes and gestational diabetes. See page 8 and the SCOPE Special Insert for more special recognition the District has received!
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exceptional health Mason Health welcomes new providers in Primary Care, Walk-In and Eye Care T
hree new providers joined the exceptional teams at Mason Clinic this past summer — Erica Auguillard, PA-C, at the Walk-In Clinic, John Coates, MD, in Primary Care and Hui Zhao, MD, at Mason Clinic-Eye Care. Their dedication, expertise, and compassionate approach to care further strengthen the positive experience patients receive at Mason Clinic. Auguillard has known she wanted to work in health care ever since she was a little girl growing up in East Texas. Not only was her mother a registered nurse, but Auguillard had acute glomerulonephritis, a kidney disease that had her in and out of hospitals from infancy until she was a teenager. “I was pretty much raised in health care,” Auguillard reflected. “My mom is my superhero. When I was a baby, she knew something was wrong, even though doctors told her it was nothing. She had seen a case while in nursing school and so she sought a second opinion.” Erica Auguillard, PA-C
Auguillard received an experimental cancer drug at 6 months old, and then every 6 months, her mother drove the two hours to Houston so that Auguillard could get bloodwork done and have doctors check her kidney function.
For Dr. Coates, the path to medicine developed gradually. He was fascinated by anatomy and inspired by his own experiences with a trusted primary care physician.
John Coates, MD
“It was kind of one of those things where I was drawn to math and sciences,” he said. “I really thought anatomy was cool, and from visits with my own primary care doctor, I envisioned myself in that role.”
A native of Arkansas, Dr. Coates earned his bachelor’s degree from Lyon College in Batesville before attending medical school at the University of Arkansas. He completed his residency training through St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro, Arkansas, where he gained valuable experience caring for patients in both clinic and hospital settings. One of the most important lessons he took from residency was the value of continuity of care. Rather than seeing patients only in an outpatient setting, he followed many of them throughout their healthcare journey. “I was seeing patients in clinic, rounding on them when they were hospitalized, and then seeing them again after they were discharged,” he said. “It helped them that I was already in the loop for their care.”
She fell in love with Houston on her visits to the kidney specialist, which continued until she was 16. Auguillard also remembers spending time at the hospital where her mother worked and absorbing as much information as she could.
The experience reinforced his belief that strong patient-provider relationships lead to better care and better outcomes. His clinical rotations solidified for him that he wanted to be a primary care provider.
These experiences lead to a dream — she wanted to be a health care provider in Houston. After graduating from Texas A&M University with a bachelor’s degree, Auguillard initially worked as a schoolteacher in Dallas for five years, contemplating her next steps.
“In my third year, I realized I didn’t like being in the operating room,” he said. “It came down to internal medicine versus family medicine.”
She decided to attend Baylor College of Medicine in Houston for a master’s degree in the physician assistant program. As a health care provider, Auguillard worked in the correctional field for five years and then at an urgent care clinic in East Texas. She loves the variety and fast pace of urgent care medicine and worked closely with a physician who shared her philosophy of building relationships with patients so that you can help them on their health care journey. “Above all, it’s about helping people,” she said. “We all have our differences, but at the end of the day, we’re all the same. We have our needs and we love our families. We’re all hoping someone will respect and help us. That is why I love what I do.” After 14 years in urgent care medicine, when her physician partner retired, Auguillard and her husband decided it was time for a change. She loved what she saw at Mason Health — a chance to help people in an underserved area and work for a company that offered amazing benefits.
“We are in the business of helping people,” she said. “I love people and I learn so much from people and my patients.” While not working, Auguillard loves puzzles, flowers and spending time with her husband, mother and brother. 4 SCOPE
“I really enjoyed the personal relationships that come with primary care, and I liked the lifestyle of working in a clinic.” After completing residency in 2022, Dr. Coates practiced at a rural federally qualified health center in Arkansas. The position allowed him significant autonomy and the chance to care for people in a community close to where he grew up. However, being the only physician in the clinic presented challenges. “Most specialists were about a half hour away,” he said. “I was my own island. What stood out for me about Mason Health was how interconnected the hospital and clinics are. I appreciate having peers and specialists available. It’s nice to have colleagues to collaborate with.” Today, Dr. Coates’ clinical interests include managing chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, supporting patients with weight-loss goals, and treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). He notes that advances in medical therapies have created more options than ever before for helping patients improve their health. He and his wife, a pharmacist, moved to Washington looking for a place that offered a strong sense of community, support for raising their two children, ages 7 and 5, and a healthy work-life balance. “It is just very pretty out here. It’s hard to beat,” he said. “Even though Shelton is rural, it feels like the hub of the rural community. There’s
empowered people always something going on, and with Mason Health, I feel confident about the leadership and the direction of the organization.” Outside of medicine, Dr. Coates enjoys spending time with his family and playing chess. Originally from Shanghai, China, Dr. Zhao knew from an early age that she wanted to become a physician. Her interest in ophthalmology developed through both personal passion and an appreciation for the vital role vision plays in people’s lives. “Eyes are very delicate, small, and complex,” Dr. Zhao said. “Nearly 90 percent of the information Hui Zhao, MD we receive comes through vision. When people lose their vision, they lose a connection to the world around them. I wanted to dedicate my career to helping preserve and restore that connection.” Dr. Zhao earned her medical degree from Zhejiang University School of Medicine and later completed a Clinical Ph.D. in Ophthalmology at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Her post-doctoral research at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, focused on age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, two of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide. Her ophthalmology research contributed to the discovery of potential therapies for diabetic retinopathy and her work has been published in several respected ophthalmology journals. While she enjoyed research, Dr. Zhao found herself increasingly drawn to direct patient care. She completed her internship in General Surgery and residency in Ophthalmology at Washington University’s BarnesJewish Hospital before pursuing fellowship training in Cornea, External Diseases and Refractive Surgery at the University of California, San Francisco. Her clinical interests include cataract surgery, dry eye disease, ocular surface inflammatory and infectious conditions, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and age-related macular degeneration. She also specializes in the medical and surgical treatment of corneal disorders and has extensive experience with procedures ranging from routine cataract surgery to corneal transplantation and ocular surface reconstruction. Throughout her career, Dr. Zhao has remained committed to caring for underserved populations. While preparing for her board examinations, she volunteered at a free clinic in Nashville, Tennessee, where she treated patients with advanced eye disease, many of whom had limited access to care. “Many patients had uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension, or severe cataracts and didn’t fully understand what was happening to their vision,” she said. “Those experiences reinforced how important it is to provide both care and education.”
“Everyone is willing to help as quickly as possible. I’ve worked in academic medicine, private practice, and large healthcare systems, and Mason Clinic has one of the most efficient and supportive environments I’ve experienced. People here genuinely want to help patients, and they do so with kindness and compassion.” Outside of medicine, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, ages 13 and 16. The family has embraced life in the Pacific Northwest and enjoys hiking, biking, and exploring the region’s outdoor recreation opportunities. To make an appointment at Mason Clinic, call 360-426-2653.
Congrats DAISY Award winners!
Mason Health awarded
Patricia Agnese, RN, from the Medical-Surgical-Pediatrics Unit, and Amanda Diaz, RN, from the Birth Center, with this year’s DAISY Awards for Excellence in Nursing. The DAISY Award is a nationwide recognition program that honors the best nursing staff at participating hospitals. Mason Health’s awards recognition ceremony took place on May 12, during National Nurses Week, on the 206th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth. Nightingale was the founder of modern nursing. Nominated by patients and voted on by a committee of nursing leadership, Agnese and Diaz were honored because of their compassion for and dedication to their patients. Agnese’s nominator detailed how she retrieved medical equipment from the Emergency Department during evening shift and learned on the spot how to use it so that the patient could have the necessary printed data report that they needed for their provider the next morning. “She did all this while showing a high level of concern and compassion for me as a patient,” they reflected. “She was awesome.”
Most recently, Dr. Zhao practiced as a cornea specialist with Kaiser Permanente in Sacramento, California, before relocating to Washington state, working as an ophthalmologist in Bremerton.
Diaz’ nominators in the Birth Center described her calm support during challenging times, including during delivery and with breastfeeding.
“Helping patients in areas where resources are scarce is incredibly rewarding,” she said. “I feel a strong responsibility because for many patients, I may be the closest eye specialist they can see.”
“She was so compassionate, efficient with everything, and by my side the whole time,” one nominator said. “She made me feel so safe and comfortable. Anyone who has her as their nurse is so lucky. I hope to have her with me for every delivery.”
After joining Mason Clinic earlier this year, Dr. Zhao said she was immediately impressed by the collaborative culture and dedication of the staff. “In just my first few months, I’ve been amazed by the teamwork,” she said.
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giving
Mason Health Foundation contributors memorialized
Mason Health Foundation would like to acknowledge former
contributors. Listed below are supporters the Foundation would like to recognize for their past support of our mission and work in the community. Please join us in acknowledging their support of the Foundation during their lifetimes. This report reflects individuals who have deceased beginning March 19 to Aug. 6, 2026.
Invest in today, because tomorrow will be here before you know it.
Mason Health Foundation’s
Forever Fund Health Care for Future Generations By Jennifer Capps, Chief Development & Communications Officer
The of the easiest ways to provide an enduring gift of support to Mason Health Foundation is through your will. By including the Foundation and the Forever Fund in your estate plans, you can designate some of your assets to the Foundation after your lifetime. At that time, the asset(s) you specify can be allocated to us, and your estate may be able to take a charitable deduction for the amount of your bequest, possibly reducing income and estate taxes payable.
How to name Mason Health Foundation in your will and give the gift of healthcare
If you choose to include Mason Health Foundation in your will or other
estate plan, we should be named as:
Gordon Brown Thor Dawley Barbara M. Parsloe Lydia Buchheit Brigitte Dolen Vanessa Petersen Jennica Budde Cathy Erickson Dorajean Putvin Eileen Burruss Dorothy Eslick Joseph D. Simpson John C. Caldiero Raenelle Gordon Richard A. Sperling Robert E. Chandler Billie L. Howard Denny R. Temple Linda Colebank Judy Johnson Jeanette C. Webb Zelma Crabtree Lynnette R. Kelly James Whiting B Cylwik Loyd Liles William B. Willard Please be advised that every effort has been made to ensure the integrity of this listing. If we have inadvertently omitted any names, please accept our apologies and most sincere thanks for your generosity and continued support of Mason Health Foundation.
Honor and memorial contributions made to Mason Health Foundation
Mason Health Foundation generously receives donations in honor
and/or memory of the individuals. If you would like to make a memorial donation, please use the remittance envelope included in SCOPE and mark Memorial Giving. You may also call the Foundation office at 360-427-3623 for assistance. SHS Class of 1965 Bellaine West In Memory of Dick Bell In Memory of Landis Brown SHS Class of 1965 Bellaine West In Memory of Sue Dorman Malloy In Memory of Tim Fredson SHS Class of 1965 Bellaine West In Memory of Jim Richards In Memory of Dorajean “Dori” Putvin SHS Class of 1965 Bellaine West In Memory of Sandi Lewis Wilson In Memory of Sandi Lewis Wilson
The Foundation welcomes Karl Nelson to the Board of Directors
Mason Health Foundation is pleased to announce
Mason Health Foundation Post Office Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584 Our tax identification number is 91-1529293
the appointment of Karl Nelson to the Foundation’s Board of Directors. He brings a wealth of professional experience and a strong commitment to service that will help advance the Foundation’s mission of supporting exceptional health care for Mason County residents.
Mason Health Foundation would be pleased to work with you and/or your financial or tax advisor to establish the planned gift(s) most appropriate for you to achieve your financial planning goals.
Our Mission
Mason Health Foundation furthers the mission of Public Hospital
District No. 1 of Mason County by providing financial support to Mason Health.
Please make a gift to the Foundation
Use the enclosed envelope to make your tax-deductible donation to help support the Foundation. To make a secure donation online go to www.MasonHealth.com
If you do not wish to receive future fundraising requests to support the Foundation, please contact us at foundation@masongeneral.com or toll-free at (855) 880-3201 ext. 28084. We will honor your request not to receive any Mason Health Foundation fundraising communications after the date we receive your decision.
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Nelson joins the Foundation board following a distinguished career in business leadership and nonprofit service. Originally from Florida’s Gulf Coast, Nelson completed a master’s degree in business administration in 1983 from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He then launched a successful career in direct marketing in Connecticut, where he spent more than two decades helping lead organizational growth and innovation. Later, he relocated to the Pacific Northwest to join World Vision, where he served in a leadership role. Karl Nelson
Today, Nelson serves as a chaplain with North Mason Regional Fire Authority, providing support to first responders and community members during times of need.
Thank You
War rior Angel Riders!
Your support for Bikers for Babies will contribute to the purchase of four PhilipsAvalon FM series fetal and maternal monitors for Mason Health’s Birth Center. The Avalon FM monitors are the first and only to offer automated coincidence detection with Smart Pulse technology, as well as the only product that can monitor triplets on a single monitor using the same
SAVE THE DATE NOVEMBER 9TH-20TH 2026!
Save the Date for Give Local 2026! Our fundraising goal is $7,500!
ultrasound frequency. With this new technology in the Birth Center, Mason Health can prevent birth complications and improve care outcomes for expectant mothers.
The Fund total -A goal n-Item fo equip r this ment is $140,0 00.
Public Hospital No.1 of Mason County, Washington, d.b.a Mason Health complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex (consistent with the scope of sex discrimination described at 45 CFR § 92.101(a)(2)), including sex characteristics, including intersex traits; pregnancy or related conditions; sexual orientation; and gender identity. Mason Health does not exclude people or treat them less favorably because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.
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united community News Briefs
Mason Health Lab re-accredited from the Joint Commission This summer, the Joint Commission re-accredited Mason Health Laboratory, affirming the high quality of care that Mason Health provides to patients and the community.
The Joint Commission represents the highest standard among accrediting entities, and this recognition reflects the meaningful, highquality diagnostic work the laboratory team provides every day in support of patient care across the District. Lindsay Roberts
“I appreciate the collaboration across departments in ensuring sustained compliance.” “I am proud of the work that we do at Mason Health to maintain excellence in patient care.”
Welcome new Mason Clinic Specialty Care Manager Candice Osmundson Mason Health welcomed Candice Osmundson, Specialty Care
Manager at Mason Clinic, to the District in May. She has nearly two decades of experience, including several years in operations and leadership roles, and has a strong passion for community-based health care.
She received an Associate of Science in PreNursing from South Puget Sound Community College in 2016 and a Bachelor’s in Health Care Administration from Western Governors University in 2025. She began her career in 2007 as a Health Unit Coordinator at St. Clare Hospital in Lakewood, later moving into a role as a Cardiac Monitor Technician.
In 2014, she joined the remote telemetry suite at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, where she helped build the largest centralized telemetry monitoring unit in Washington state. In 2023, Osmundson was promoted to Cardiac Monitoring Unit Supervisor, leading a team of 92 telemetry technicians across eight hospitals helping an average of 700 patients daily. Before joining Mason Health, she served as the Surgical Oncology Clinic Manager for the MultiCare Cancer Institute.
“What has stayed with me was the desire to work in high acuity environments and contribute to patient safety,” she said.
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Mason Health welcomes new chaplain Rev. Dr. Nancy Niero, an ordained United Church of Christ pastor,
joined the District’s group of volunteer chaplains earlier this year. The volunteer chaplains are faith leaders of varying denominations who provide emotional support to Mason Health patients, loved ones, and staff in their time of need. Prior to being called to ministry, Rev. Dr. Niero worked as a journalist and historic preservationist. At the age of 50, Rev. Dr. Niero went to seminary, called to be a hospice chaplain and work in hospice bereavement. She joined Mason Health’s chaplain team at the suggestion of a friend.
The accreditation cycle can last for months and requires collaboration across multiple departments.
“While this is a lab-specific accreditation, this consistently highlights how interconnected the Laboratory is with nearly every clinical area,” said Laboratory Director Lindsay Roberts.
Candace Osmundson
“That’s ultimately what led me into cardiac monitoring and later into healthcare operations and leadership.”
“I hope it’s comforting for patients and families to have someone who will listen to the questions that need to be asked, especially when facing distressing news,” she said. “Chaplains provide a listening presence for staff who may have been having a difficult day.” Nancy Niero
Mason Health chaplains visit the hospital on a rotating schedule and are available on an on-call basis. The team includes Anglican Reverend David Hockaday, Buddhist Chaplain Denise Carrico and Faith Lutheran Church Pastors Doug Peterson and Terry Oliver. Chaplains do not proselytize, and their care is always patient-directed. Each chaplain has experience providing spiritual care in a medical environment. They round with the patients on their own and connect with nurses to ask which patients might need emotional support. To request a Chaplain, patients may ask a nurse or other staff member during their visit.
“I am really enjoying getting to know the nurses, and I loved blessing their hands in a blessing ritual during National Nurses Week in May,” Rev. Dr. Niero said. “It is such a moment of gratitude to show appreciation in a blessing, for all the heavy lifting nurses hands do for so many.” If you are interested in learning more about Mason Health’s Chaplain program, email volunteer@masongeneral.com or visit masonhealth. com/community/volunteering to learn more.
Haley Waxler promoted to Human Resources Manager, Talent Acquisition and Workforce Development Since joining the Human Resources team in January 2024, Haley Waxler has made valuable contributions to Mason Health through her work supporting talent acquisition, onboarding, workforce planning, position development, compensation alignment, and other key HR initiatives. In her new role, she will assume expanded responsibility for HR operations and programs, including the alignment of the Education team with our Workforce Development
united community initiatives, while continuing to partner with leaders across the organization.
Haley Waxler
Waxler holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology and has earned the Society for Human Resource Management’s Certified Professional credential (SHRM-CP). She is also continuing her professional development by pursuing a master’s degree in Human Resources and Employment Law.
Kostad joins Mason Health as Program Manager of Physical Security and Access Control Chris Kostad joined Mason Health this summer as Program Manager of Physical Security and Access Control, familiarizing himself with the District’s physical security, access control, and emergency preparedness programs.
Kostad brings more than 35 years of experience in law enforcement, public safety, and security. Most recently, he served as Chief of Police for the Shelton Police Department, where he led department operations, strategic planning, accreditation, policy development, training, and emergency response while partnering with community organizations and local agencies. Prior to his law enforcement career, Kostad spent nearly 10 years in security and loss prevention, providing him with a strong foundation in physical security operations. He also holds multiple Certified Healthcare Security Officer (CHSO) certifications from the International Association for Healthcare Security & Safety (IAHSS), along with extensive Incident Command System (ICS) training and leadership experience.
Chris Kostad
Classes & Workshops Announcement Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Support Group We welcome brain injury survivors, caregivers, and immediate family. Our mission is to facilitate an encouraging and educational meeting, while providing social and emotional support. Time: 1 to 3 p.m., second Tuesday of every month Location: Shelton Family YMCA: Participants need to check in at the front desk of the YMCA and provide ID. Cost: Free Call (360) 427-9578 for more information.
First Aid/CPR Class Mason Health offers First Aid & CPR classes open to community members. Pre-registration is required by Dec. 9, 2026. Call 360-427-3609 or email scurtis@masongeneral.com to pre-register. Time: 4:30 to 8:30 p.m., Wednesday, December 16 Location: Mason Health Learning Center, located next to the Shelton McDonald’s on Olympic Highway North, 2505 Olympic Hwy N, Suite 470, Shelton, WA 98584 Cost: $50. Check, cash or PayPal are accepted. Check out www.masonhealth.com for more classes and workshops, including Cancer Wellness and First Aid/CPR classes!
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hola Presentamos a los futuros líderes de la atención médica del condado de Mason: becas médicas otorgadas al personal del Distrito y a estudiantes de secundaria
C
universitario.
Este año, el Grupo de Médicos Hospitalarios de Mason Health lanzó un nuevo programa de becas destinado a estudiantes que cursan carreras de cuatro años en el campo de la medicina. Esta iniciativa se suma al programa de becas completas de enfermería de la Health Sciences Academy del distrito y a las becas médicas de la Fundación Mason Health, las cuales son gestionadas por los capítulos Centennial Guild y Auxiliary.
En otoño, Sanchez-Barajas comenzará sus estudios en la Escuela de Salud Pública de la Universidad de Washington, con el objetivo de obtener un título en Salud Pública–Salud Global y luego ingresar a la facultad de medicina.
on el objetivo de fortalecer el futuro del cuidado de la salud en el condado de Mason, Mason Health colabora con la educación, el desarrollo profesional y el éxito de los estudiantes.
En conjunto, estas inversiones representan un esfuerzo estratégico para fortalecer al cuerpo local de profesionales de la salud y ayudar a los estudiantes a superar los obstáculos económicos que limitan el acceso a la educación superior.
Nueva beca de médicos hospitalarios fortalece la estrategia de desarrollo profesional El Fondo de Becas del Grupo de Médicos Hospitalarios de la Fundación Mason Health le entregó la primera beca a Xiomara SánchezBarajas, estudiante de último año de Shelton High School, en reconocimiento de su rendimiento académico, su determinación, y su vocación por la medicina. Las becas están destinadas a estudiantes
Xiomara Sanchez-Barajas universitarios que cursan carreras de cuatro
años relacionadas con el cuidado de la salud. Entre las profesiones se incluyen medicina, odontología, enfermería, fisioterapia, farmacia, nutrición, salud mental y conductual, ciencias sociales, bioquímica, bioingeniería, medicina de laboratorio y otras profesiones afines. La beca prioriza a los estudiantes universitarios de primera generación, a aquellos que demuestren necesidad financiera y a quienes se comprometan a completar una carrera de cuatro años. La Fundación Mason Health administra el fondo que recibe donaciones del Grupo de Médicos Hospitalarios de Mason Health. El comité de revisión de becas está integrado por Douglas Lindahl, DO (Doctor en Osteopatía), Médico Hospitalario Principal en Mason General Hospital; Jacqueline Gorzynski, MD (Doctor en Medicina), Atención Primaria en Mason Clinic; y Darren Cuevas, DO (Doctor en Osteopatía), Director Médico de Mason Health. “Es un orgullo entregar esta beca a una beneficiaria tan merecedora”, expresó el Dr. Lindahl. “El comité quedó impresionado por los logros académicos de Xiomara durante la secundaria y por la firme determinación con la que ingresa a la universidad, donde busca obtener un título en salud pública y especializarse en oncología.” Originaria de Shelton, Sanchez-Barajas ha visto a miembros de su familia luchar contra el cáncer y ha comprobado de primera mano cómo los profesionales de la salud pueden transformar la atención de quienes atraviesan una enfermedad.
Además, compitió en atletismo, trabajó como cajera en un puesto de comida local, fue consejera voluntaria en campamentos y brindó apoyo de Álgebra II a sus compañeros de estudio.
“Me quedé sin palabras al enterarme de que había recibido esta beca. Nunca pensé que me elegirían”, expresó. “Esta beca me permitirá ayudar a otros, especialmente a mis padres, quienes han sacrificado su tiempo, dinero y sueños para que yo pudiera cumplir los míos.”
Formando la próxima generación de cuidadores Mason Health también entregó tres becas completas de enfermería de la Health Sciences Academy a estudiantes del último año de Shelton High School, Monse Gonzalez-Cruz, Emma Oleachea and Jacob Udarbe. La beca incluye el pago de la matrícula, los libros, los uniformes, los gastos de laboratorio y simulación, y los costos de la matrícula, que son necesarios para obtener el título de personal de enfermería. “Tanto las becas de formación en salud como nuestra colaboración con el Distrito Escolar de Shelton constituyen una inversión en el futuro de la salud del condado de Mason», expresó Melissa Strong, MSN (Master en Ciencias de la Enfermería), RHCNOC (Jefa de Enfermería de Hospitales Rurales), RN (Enfermera Registrada), Directora de Enfermería. “Al apoyar a quienes desean convertirse en enfermeros dentro de nuestra comunidad, estamos consolidando un equipo de profesionales fuerte y compasivo que cuidará de nuestros vecinos por generaciones”. El programa comenzó en 2022, y desde entonces, varios beneficiarios se han sumado al equipo de trabajo de Mason Health. Wyatt Anthis, egresado en 2023, hoy es enfermero en la Unidad Quirúrgica Pediátrica de Mason General Hospital, y Carly VanAagten, egresada en 2024, trabaja como enfermera en el Departamento de Emergencias. Durante su segundo año de secundaria, Gonzalez-Cruz atravesó una crisis familiar que marcó su vida. Fue un periodo de inestabilidad emocional que provocó una baja en sus calificaciones, y al terminar el tercer año, supo que iba a tener un bebé. “Recuerdo sentir miedo, incertidumbre, e incluso dudas respecto de mi futuro”, escribió en el ensayo de solicitud de beca. “El día del parto en Mason Health me cambió para siempre. En el Centro de Maternidad recibí un cuidado con un nivel de compasión que jamás olvidaré”. Gonzalez-Cruz siempre soñó con ser enfermera, y en la actualidad, desea trabajar en el Centro de Maternidad para acompañar y asistir a otras madres, sobre todo a las jóvenes que puedan sentirse solas o asustadas.
Durante su paso por Shelton High School, participó en el programa Running Start de Olympic College. Su rendimiento la llevó a recibir distinciones de la National Honor Society y de las listas del Decano y del Presidente del Olympic College. Se convertirá en el primer miembro de su familia en obtener un título 10 S C O P E
Monse-Gonzalez-Cruz
Oleachea atravesó una experiencia similar con una enfermera que la inspiró a estudiar una carrera relacionada con la medicina. Cuando era una niña, una enfermera notó que tanto ella
hola como sus hermanos necesitaban ayuda urgente, y alertó a las autoridades.
Emma Oleachea
“Cuando era más joven, una enfermera nos ayudó a mis hermanos y a mí a salir de una situación terrible”, escribió en su ensayo. “Siempre agradeceré a la enfermera por ayudarnos a salir de esa casa y llevarnos a un lugar donde nunca habríamos llegado sin su valentía y coraje para alzar su voz por quienes no podían hacerlo”.
En la actualidad, Oleachea desea ser quien brinde contención a las personas en situaciones difíciles, y las ayude a conseguir el apoyo que necesitan. Antes de su nacimiento, la vida de Udarbe ya estaba marcada por el fallecimiento de Thomas, su hermano prematuro. Al escuchar los relatos de sus padres sobre los días en la unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales, nació su deseo de dar esperanza a quienes atraviesan momentos difíciles. “Alguien del personal de enfermería extendió su jornada laboral para quedarse junto a Thomas mientras su salud empeoraba. De no ser por el personal médico que prolongó la vida de Thomas, y sobre todo por la enfermera que le dio esperanza a mi madre, mis padres habrían permanecido en la oscuridad”, escribió Udarbe en su solicitud. “Intentarlo nuevamente fue una apuesta médica aterradora. Mi vida se la debo al esfuerzo y la pasión de esa enfermera”. Udarbe desea salvar vidas e inspirar a los pacientes: “Mi deseo es asistir a las personas que lo necesiten y brindar la esperanza que fue tan importante para mi familia”.
Jacob Udarbe
A principios de 2026, los alumnos de Shelton High School tendrán la oportunidad de solicitar la beca de la Health Sciences Academy que otorga Mason Health.
Una tradición de la comunidad que impulsa la formación en salud Durante décadas, los capítulos Auxiliary y Centennial Guild de la Fundación Mason Health han otorgado becas con el objetivo de impulsar a futuros profesionales de la salud. Estas becas están destinadas a estudiantes de secundaria de todo el condado de Mason y a empleados de Mason Health. Durante su último año dentro de la Fundación, Auxiliary otorgó 18 becas médicas por un total de 30,000 dólares. La Fundación tiene previsto seguir otorgando becas en honor a la sección auxiliar, destinadas a jóvenes y a miembros del personal del Distrito. Centennial Guild otorgó 17 becas por un total de 55,000 dólares durante el ciclo académico 2026-2027, en memoria de Kristi Armstrong, exintegrante del Centennial Guild y enfermera del Mason General Hospital. “Centennial Guild es un grupo reducido pero muy activo de mujeres que cada año recauda fondos para becas”, señaló Kim McElliot, presidenta del comité de becas del Guild. “El dinero reunido durante estos eventos se destina a nuestra Beca Conmemorativa Kristi Armstrong. El comité de becas expresó su satisfacción por la cantidad de postulaciones recibidas este año”. Las becas del Guild apoyan a los estudiantes de último año de Shelton High School, a los empleados de Mason Health y a los residentes del condado de Mason que desean estudiar carreras relacionadas a la salud. Para obtener más información, puede escribir a foundation@masongeneral.com”.
Reconocen a Mason Health por su calidad y cuidado a los pacientes Mason Health sigue
sumando reconocimientos por su compromiso con la calidad, el cuidado del paciente y la excelencia organizacional. En el último año, el Distrito obtuvo galardones que reflejan la dedicación de los miembros de sus equipos y refuerzan la misión de ofrecer el mejor cuidado de la salud en el noroeste del Pacífico. En 2025, Mason Health recibió un reconocimiento a nivel nacional por la experiencia y satisfacción de sus pacientes a través de Excellence in Healthcare Awards (Premios a la Excelencia en el Cuidado de la Salud). Este galardón es presentado por Professional Research Consultants (PRC), una organización líder en inteligencia para el sector salud. El Centro de Maternidad de Mason General Hospital recibió el prestigioso premio Five Star Award (Premio cinco estrellas), que lo posiciona dentro del 10 % de las organizaciones de salud de todo el país en la Calificación Hospitalaria General, según la base de datos 2025 de PRC para los servicios de internación en obstetricia y ginecología. Asimismo, el equipo de Servicios de Internación del Mason General Hospital recibió el premio Four Star Award (Premio cuatro estrellas), que lo ubica entre el 25 % de los hospitales mejor calificados a nivel nacional, según la base de datos 2025 de servicios de internación. Estos galardones destacan el esfuerzo de los equipos por ofrecer una atención de calidad y lograr buenos resultados para los pacientes que se encuentran internados. “Cuando se trata de salud rural, la experiencia de cada paciente es profundamente personal”, afirmó Melissa Strong, Directora de Enfermería. “Estamos muy orgullosos de nuestro equipo de trabajo.” Hace poco, Strong alcanzó un nuevo logro: la certificación Rural Hospital CNO (Jefa de Enfermería de Hospitales Rurales) otorgada a través del Centro de Liderazgo en Salud Rural de la Asociación Nacional de Salud Rural (NRHA, por su sigla en inglés). Esta certificación reconoce a los Melissa Strong, MSN, líderes de enfermería que demuestran un RHCNOC, RN conocimiento avanzado en los desafíos y oportunidades propios de la gestión de la salud rural. La Asociación Americana de Diabetes, organización líder en el país en la lucha contra la diabetes, renovó por cuatro años el aval programa de educación sobre la diabetes de Mason Health a través de su Programa de Reconocimiento Educativo. Esta iniciativa es administrada por el departamento de Diabetes Wellness & Dietitian Services del Distrito, y ofrece clases Sarah Fulkerson, RD, grupales, así como asesoría individual para adultos con diabetes tipo 1 y 2, prediabetes CDCES o diabetes gestacional. SCOPE
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901 Mountain View Drive Shelton, WA 98584
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Patient Financial Services & Enrollment Liaisons Have Moved!
Pay your bill and seek help signing up for health insurance all at a new one-stop location. Patient Financial Services are now located at 237 Professional Way.
Three Ways To Pay Your Bills At Mason Health
Business Office/Patient Accounts: 237 Professional Way, Shelton, WA 98584. Mon-Fri: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 360-427-3601 (or 360-275-8614 from Allyn) or email hospitalbillingquestions@masongeneral.com for questions about your bill. A Spanish translator is available.
1. Online bill pay service
Make an online payment at www.MasonHealth.com. Click on the “Pay Your Bill” link at the top of the web page.
Mason Health: Located at: 901 Mountain View Drive, PO Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584-5001 • 360-426-1611, from Allyn 360-275-8614, Toll free 855-880-3201, TTY/TDD 360-427-9593 • Serving the medical needs of Mason County since 1968 • Accredited by DNV-GL • Free Translation Services Provided/Se habla español • Equal Opportunity Provider • Public Hospital No.1 of Mason County, Washington, d.b.a Mason Health complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex (consistent with the scope of sex discrimination described at 45 CFR § 92.101(a)(2)) or sex, including sex characteristics, including intersex traits; pregnancy or related conditions; sexual orientation; and gender identity. Mason Health does not exclude people or treat them less favorably because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.
2. Call or visit Patient Financial Services in person
at 237 Professional Way • Shelton, WA 98584 (360) 427-3601 • Mon - Fri, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
3. By mail
Updated 8/2026
Mason Health Business Office POB 94782 • Seattle, WA 98124-7082
Visiting hours: Every day 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. All visitors should enter through the MGH Main Entrance, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. After hours or Sunday visitors can use the Emergency Department entrance. Mason Clinic hours: Mon-Sun: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Mason Clinic Lab Hours: Mon-Fri: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. • Mason Clinic Walk-In hours: Mon-Fri: 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sat/Sun: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
CAN’T MAKE YOUR CLINIC APPOINTMENT? Please notify Mason Health as soon as you know you will need to change or cancel your appointment, and cancellation must be at least one business day prior to your scheduled appointment. See Mason Health’s No-Show and Cancellation Policy at www.MasonHealth.com and direct any questions you have about it to your Clinic.
INSURANCE IDENTIFICATION
DON’T FORGET! If you have an appointment remember to bring your:
ID Card & Insurance Cards
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