“We would not want
to overlook those very
important regional
training programs.”By Gary Knox, MD SCMS President
A M O N T H L Y N E W S M A G A Z I N E O F S C M S – J U L Y 2 0 1 0
SPOKANE COUNTY
MEDICAL SOCIETY
messageT HE
November SCMS Message Open3
T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
President’s Message:Don’t overlook those Regional Training Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Whitworth University Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Washington State University Health Sciences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Eastern Washington University Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
RUOP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
In The News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Membership Recognition for July 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
CME 2010 Program Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Keeping health reform affordable –The opportunity rests with us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Extraordinary SCMS Relationships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Annual Senior Physicians Golf Tournament. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Inland Northwest Medical Group Management Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Medical School Economic Impact Unveiled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Medical Referral Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
New Physicians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Meetings & Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Positions Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Classified Ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
“Respect for the fragiltiy and importance of an individual life
is still the mark of an educated man.”
–NORMAN COUSINS
Spokane County Medical Society Message
Brad Pope, MD, EditorA monthly newsletter published by
the Spokane County Medical Society. The annual subscription rate is $21.74
(this includes the 8.7% tax rate).
Advertising Correspondence Quisenberry Marketing & Design Attn: Jeff Akiyama 518 S. Maple Spokane, WA 99204 509-325-0701 Fax 509-325-3889 [email protected]
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.
2010 Board of TrusteesGary Knox, MDPresidentBrad Pope, MDPresident-ElectTerri Oskin, MDVice PresidentAnne Oakley, MD Secretary-TreasurerJ. Courtney Clyde, MDImmediate Past PresidentLouis Koncz, PA-CPosition 1Keith Kadel, MDPosition 2Michael Cunningham, MDPosition 3David McClellan, MDPosition 4Paul Lin, MDPosition 5Michael Metcalf, MDPosition 6Gary Newkirk, MDPosition 7Carla Smith, MDPosition 8VacantPosition 9David Bare, MDPosition 10Keith Baldwin, MHAChief Executive Officer
July SCMS Message 1
At the time of this writing a major announcement is being
made in Spokane about what the potential economic impact of
the proposed medical school will be on our region. The report
indicates that the dollars will be measured in the billions over the
next 20 years and the jobs will be measured in the thousands. Trip
Umbach, the consulting firm that did the independent financial
impact analysis, estimates that the influence on construction,
wages, research, business spin offs, new physician practices, and
government revenue from taxes will reach about $2 billion over
the next 20 years. Of course the financial effect is not all that will
result. The consultant points out that the growth in the healthcare
industry due to the medical school will result in improved health
care access, improved quality by increasing medical research in
our area, more physicians who will want to stay in or return to
our area, and better ease of recruiting of physicians due to this
being an academic center. In addition, they project that, based
on national benchmarks, our medical school alone will account
for 46 additional physicians yearly entering practice in Eastern
Washington and Northern Idaho by 2030. Those predictions
are based on a wealth of experience and information that Trip
Umbach has compiled over 20 years in the industry and it appears
that the assumptions are reasonable.
As comprehensive as this impact analysis is, it would be difficult
to include or predict every possible effect that this large project
could have on our community. It certainly could create more need
for ancillary healthcare workers or professionals and the training
programs from which they come. There are a number of healthcare
related training programs in our region that could feel a positive
impact of a medical school and the increased demand for the
graduates they produce. It may be surprising to learn how many
of those programs are already in existence in the area. With all the
excitement of the potential medical school, we would not want
to overlook those very important regional training programs. We
have articles this month that highlight some of those programs.
From exercise physiology to pharmacy, from physical therapy to
communications disorders, from nursing to dentistry, we have
a wealth of professional training programs already successfully
functioning here in Spokane. We can’t lose sight of their
importance as we get fired up about the medical school.
The collaboration on the medical school, which is now more
appropriately being called an “Academic Health Sciences
Center,” has been inspiring to watch. The Medical Society
has been intimately involved in the planning committees and
legislative visits from the beginning. The business and academic
leadership are firmly behind, and actually leading, the project and
the momentum is growing. The interest and enthusiasm among
doctors is growing also, but we will need more of that. And, our
state and federal legislators are very supportive, although the
funding for the project remains a big hurdle to be cleared.
You can expect to be hearing more about this monumental task
in the very near future. It is just beginning to be discussed broadly
in the community. Expect to be asked to participate in some way in
making this Academic Health Sciences Center a reality. It is good
for healthcare delivery and it is good for our community.
Gary Knox, MD
SCMS 2010 President
President’s Message: Don’t overlook those Regional Training Programs
July SCMS Message 3
Whitworth University
is a private, liberal
arts university, with
a long history of
preparing students for
careers and graduate
programs in the
health professions
such as athletic training, chiropractic, dentistry, medicine, nursing,
pharmacy, physical therapy and veterinary medicine. We believe
that careers in health care connect beautifully to the institutional
mission to provide an education of the mind and heart that
equips graduates to honor God, follow Christ and serve humanity.
Whitworth’s rigorous liberal-arts education gives students a
broad knowledge base and the analytical, critical-thinking and
communication skills that enable them to thrive in graduate school
and health-care fields.
The Health Sciences Department offers degrees in athletic
training, nursing (through WSU’s College of Nursing), and
health science. An athletic training or nursing degree will allow
students direct entrance into these respective careers. A health
science degree is an interdisciplinary program that begins with
a foundation in biology, chemistry, and an exploration of health
sciences. Students then study anatomy and physiology, exercise
physiology, nutrition, and research methods in exercise and human
performance. Additional courses in personal health, community
health and evidence-based practice broaden students’ ability to
connect human health and wellness with complex issues such as
personal value systems, ethics and social justice. A health science
degree is designed to prepare students for graduate programs
such as physician’s assistant, physical therapy, human physiology,
nutrition or public health.
Whitworth also offers a comprehensive pre-professional
program open to students from any major, which focuses
specifically on preparing students for entrance to medical, dental
or veterinary programs. This program includes one-on-one
advising, two specially designed seminar programs, and an active
student run pre-med/dent/vet club with peer mentoring. The first
seminar, usually taken in the first year at the university, introduces
students to the requirements for entrance to the graduate program
of their choice and to guest speakers representing various health
careers. The second seminar is intended to be taken during the
junior year and focuses on strategies to do well on the MCAT
exam and to navigate the application process for medical school.
Graduates from our program have been very successful in being
admitted to the medical, dental or veterinary schools of their
choice, and also in obtaining competitive scholarships to help fund
their health profession education.
Whitworth is constructing a 63,000-square-foot biology and
chemistry building which will be ready for classes in fall 2011.
This new building will have state of the art teaching and research
lab facilities, including a new human cadaver lab. It is the largest
and most expensive academic building ever constructed on our
campus and will be a hallmark of the university for years to come.
Whitworth University is committed to offering undergraduate
degree programs that provide students with the foundational
knowledge to achieve their post-graduate goals, as well as a
transformational experience that produces graduates equipped to
honor God, follow Christ and serve humanity through a variety of
health-related careers.
Dr. Karen Steven, Professor of Chemistry, Co-director of premedical
program
Dr. Mike Ediger, Health Sciences Department Chair
Whitworth University Programs
WSU Spokane is developing the academic health sciences
campus at Riverpoint. In partnership with other higher education
institutions, healthcare practitioners, and the community we are
working to expand medical education and research. Our vision
is to create a new culture of collaborative, interprofessional
education, research and practice and to help improve health care
access, quality of care, and sustainable economic vitality. For
more information see spokane.wsu.edu/healthsciences
Nutrition & Exercise Physiology
The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Exercise Physiology degree at
WSU Spokane focuses on the effects of nutrition and exercise on human
health. This unique curriculum integrates the areas of exercise physiology,
human nutrition, biological sciences, and social and psychological
sciences. This program offers the only bachelor’s degree in the U.S. to
be both endorsed by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
and accredited by the American Dietetic Association (ADA). Students
completing this unique undergraduate degree will be eligible to take
national examinations for credentialing as ACSM-certified Exercise
Specialists; those completing the Coordinated Program in Dietetics may
sit for the exam to be credentialed as entry-level Registered Dietitians.
The BS Nutrition & Exercise Physiology degree offers an interdisciplinary
examination of the effects of nutrition and exercise on individuals’ health.
Graduates have a competitive edge and extensive knowledge in the
areas of both exercise physiology and nutrition.
Washington State University Health Sciences
July SCMS Message 5
College of Nursing
Headquartered at WSU Spokane, the WSU College of Nursing
offers upper division undergraduate and graduate course
work in nursing from the baccalaureate through the PhD. Each
year, the College educates more than 1,000 upper-division
undergraduate and graduate students statewide and graduates
more entry-level nurses than any other institution in the state
of Washington. Upper-division BS Nursing students in Spokane
from EWU, WSU, and Whitworth University study together in
an intercollegiate program and receive joint degrees from their
home institution and from WSU, which operates the program.
The College of Nursing offers a Master of Nursing degree
(MN) with programs leading to specialization as a family nurse
practitioner, psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner, and/or
advanced practitioner for population health focus. The Doctor of
Philosophy in Nursing Program (PhD) addresses a critical shortfall
of doctorally prepared nursing faculty and nurse scientists
across the country and in the northwest. In addition, the College
addresses the recommendations of the American Association
of Colleges of Nursing for research-focused doctoral programs
in nursing. A national leader in distributive nursing education
models, the College is also engaged in research studies leading
to improvements in nursing care, the health care system, and the
health of the public.
Exercise Science
WSU Spokane offers the only research-based MS Exercise
Science in Washington State that focuses on clinical and
experimental exercise physiology with an emphasis on cellular
and molecular mechanisms. The core curriculum provides
a foundation in the study of the cellular mechanisms that
regulate physiological responses to exercise and the molecular
mechanisms that govern these cellular responses. Research
methods and statistics courses provide preparatory study in
research design and analysis for future project/thesis work. A
graduate certificate in exercise science is also offered.
Health Policy and Administration
With accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation
of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME), renowned
faculty and a strong, distinguished curriculum, the WSU
Spokane Master’s in Health Policy and Administration program
offers students outstanding preparation for health policy and
health management careers. The program provides students
interested in improving and developing healthier communities
with the knowledge, skills, and values to be skilled health
service administrators and community health policy leaders. The
HPA program at WSU Spokane is the only CAHME-accredited
program admitted to the Western Interstate Commission for
Higher Education (WICHE) Western Regional Graduate Program.
This allows residents of fourteen states to register at resident
tuition rates. Upon graduating, students receive Full Graduate
Membership Status to the Association of University Programs in
Health Administration (AUPHA).
WSU College of Pharmacy
The WSU College of Pharmacy is co-located on the university’s
Pullman and Spokane campuses. It offers a four-year professional
PharmD (Doctor of Pharmacy) program that is fully accredited by
the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. WSU Spokane
houses completion of the PharmD program that begins at WSU
Pullman; the program will be consolidated at WSU Spokane
in the future when facilities are available to house necessary
classrooms and labs. Spokane—an important regional medical
hub—provides a hands-on laboratory for students. The Drug
Information Center located at WSU Spokane serves health care
professionals by answering critical questions on drug use and
its possible side effects. As the only such source for Washington
State’s more than 20,000 licensed doctors and pharmacists, the
DIC plays a vital role in providing outstanding health care in
the Northwest and serves as one of the clinical rotation sites for
PharmD students.
Barb Chamberlain
Director of Communications and Public Affairs
Washington State University Spokane
Physical Therapy
The Department of Physical Therapy
at Eastern Washington University is the
only doctorate degree offered at the
university (DPT). It is considered one
of the top programs in the Northwest,
and the nation. The program is fully
accredited through the Commission
on Accreditation in Physical Therapy
Education, and the graduates of the
DPT are eligible to sit for state licensure
examinations. The curriculum is designed
to prepare leaders for the profession of
physical therapy whose focus of practice
is to diagnose and manage movement
dysfunction and enhance the physical
and functional abilities of the clients they
serve. Class sizes are restricted each
year to ensure optimal student learning,
thus enabling each student to receive
Eastern Washington University Programs
July SCMS Message 6
comprehensive instructional and clinical
experiences.
The program is part of the overall
health science offerings on the Riverpoint
Campus.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy (OT) is a health
and rehabilitation profession that helps
people of all ages to participate more fully
in their day-to-day lives. Occupational
therapists assist persons who are
experiencing a physical, cognitive or
emotional impairment recover to their
maximum level of independence. By
providing skilled evaluation, intervention
and health promotion strategies,
occupational therapists help people take
care of themselves and their families,
enjoy life, and contribute to the
social and economic fabric of
the community. The mission of
the Department of Occupational
Therapy at Eastern Washington
University is to prepare entry-
level graduates to provide
occupational therapy services with
distinctiveness and compassion in
a variety of professional practice
environments. The program
provides a foundation of skills in general
practice competencies, leadership and
creative and critical thinking processes to
facilitate the development of an innovative,
entry-level occupational therapist.
Additionally, graduates demonstrate a
commitment to the common good, creative
life-long learning and high ethical standards
for professional practice. A particular
focus of the educational program is to
prepare entry-level practitioners to work in
rural, underrepresented and underserved
communities.
Dental Hygiene
Eastern Washington University’s Dental
Hygiene program is the only entry-level
bachelor’s degree program in the state
of Washington. In fact, less than twenty
percent of the dental hygiene programs
in the United States offer this degree. This
means that Eastern’s graduates can pursue
dental health careers that may be closed to
people with dental hygiene certificates or
associate degrees.
For hygienists who choose to enter
private dental practice, a bachelor’s
degree offers a broader educational base
and a more secure foundation for everyday
interaction with the public.
Additionally, Eastern Washington
University Department of Dental Hygiene
has collaborated with Washington State
University’s School of Pharmacology to
bring Human Patient Simulation (HPS) to
dental hygiene students. HPS uses high
fidelity mannequins to practice high risk,
low occurrence situations such as medical
emergencies that may occur in the dental
office. Students are allowed to practice a
stressful situation and respond without risk
of serious consequences to a patient. This
is a great way to put into practice what is
learned in lecture and make it real.
EWU also offers a Master of Science
Degree in Dental Hygiene.
Regional Initiatives in Dental
Education (RIDE)
The Regional Initiatives in Dental
Education (RIDE) program is a strategic
expansion of the University of Washington
School of Dentistry in partnership with
Eastern Washington University and
Washington State University.
Under this working relationship,
Eastern’s top-notch dental hygiene
program is coupled with the nationally-
renowned University of Washington
Dentistry program, encouraging future
oral health care professionals to consider
serving rural and underserved communities
in the Inland Northwest.
RIDE builds upon the successful
infrastructure of the WSU’s WWAMI
program, which expands health care
education opportunities throughout
the Northwest.
Eastern’s commitment to the expansion
of the RIDE program is a tangible example
of the University’s commitment to
enhancing educational opportunities in the
Spokane region - especially in the health
care fields.
Communication Disorders
Professionals practicing in
Communication Disorders are concerned
with impairments and disabilities
of speech, language, cognition-
communication, voice and swallowing as
well as hearing processes and
disorders. Eastern Washington
University’s Department of
Communication Disorders has
a strong clinical orientation
and addresses the medical,
developmental and educational
issues that impact being a
competent speech-language
pathologist.
Communication Disorders
in cooperation with Washington State
University’s Department of Speech and
Hearing Sciences, called the University
Programs in Communication Disorders
(UPCD). UPCD’s Hearing and Speech
Clinic at Riverpoint provides services to
the surrounding community. Master’s level
students, training to become professional
speech, language or hearing specialists,
provide all evaluation and therapy services
under the direct supervision of nationally
certified faculty.
The general goal (through the Master’s
degree) is to provide a sound academic
background and to complement that
instruction with clinical knowledge
and experience sufficient to equip the
student to diagnostically assess and offer
professional services to individuals across a
spectrum of communication disorders in a
variety of employment settings.
By providing skilled evaluation, intervention
and health promotion strategies,
occupational therapists help people take
care of themselves and their families,
enjoy life, and contribute to the social
and economic fabric of the community.
July SCMS Message 7
Brian Staley, M.D. is the winner of the
Kadlec Regional Medical Center 2010
Spirit of Planetree Physician Champion
Award. The award recognizes a physician
who champions the Planetree model of
patient-centered care and whose actions
demonstrate him to be a role model for
other medical staff members.
Dr. Staley has been a pathologist at
InCyte Pathology assigned to Kadlec
Medical Center since 2006 and is
board certified in anatomic and clinical
pathology. He graduated from the
University of Utah Medical School and
completed his residency at the University
of Utah Health Sciences Center, ARUP
Laboratories and affiliated hospitals. His
subspecialty interests include cytology,
gynecologic and gastrointestinal
pathology.
The Regence Foundation presented
James Shaw, M.D., director of ethics at
Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center
and Children’s Hospital and medical
director at Providence Center for Faith
and Healing in Spokane, Washington
one of the four First Annual Sojourns
Awards. The award recognizes leaders
in the field of palliative care. Dr. Shaw will
donate the $50,000 Sojourns Award to
Providence Center for Faith and Healing,
which coordinates palliative care services
for Providence in the Spokane community.
The award is part of The Regence
Foundation’s Sojourns grant making
program to promote hospital- and
community-based palliative care
services. Through Sojourns, The
Foundation aims to foster best practices,
leadership and collaboration that help
people with life-threatening and incurable
illness to access high-quality palliative
care in their own communities.
Kim Thorburn, M.D. was named
the Washington Fish and Wildlife
Department’s 2010 Volunteer of the
Year for her work on sage and sharp-
tailed grouse recovery in Lincoln County.
She spent the past year radio-tracking
birds relocated to the county by state
biologists.
Dr. Thorburn is active with Spokane
Audubon Society and serves as a member
of the Upper Columbia River Group’s
Executive Committee. She is a retired
physician and former Spokane Regional
Health District director.
That’s a
funny word. The
UW School of
Medicine is acronym-philic and RUOP has
become one of my favorites.
The Rural Underserved Opportunity
Program is a 4-6 week period in the last
summer vacation our medical students
will ever have. Yes, the summer between
their first and second year. During this
time each student lives in a rural or
underserved community and works with
physicians there.
Between my first and second year at
the University of Illinois medical school
I had the same opportunity. Harkening
back to that month kept me strong in my
conviction that primary care is a great
specialty (despite what a fair number of
my research oriented preceptors wanted
me to believe). I remember each and
every one of my preceptors from this
formative period.
It is fantastic to see a new generation of
medical students have this opportunity.
Each of our RUOP students does a
community based research project and
they are required to keep a journal. Each
year the UWSoM publishes a redacted
and HIPAA compliant pamphlet of our
students’ reflections. Whenever you find
yourself tired, cynical or burning out, a
quick perusal of these students’ heartfelt
thoughts and struggles will restore
your faith in your colleagues and your
commitment to our honored profession.
If you would like a copy of your own,
call or email my office.
Deb Harper, MD
UW School of Medicine
Assistant Dean for Regional Affairs
WWAMI Clinical Coordinator for Eastern
& Central Washington
RUOP
In The News
Brian Staley, M.D Spirit of Planetree Physician Champion Award Winner
James Shaw, MD Sojourns Award Recipient Kim Thorburn, MD Honored for Wildlife Advocacy
July SCMS Message 9
Membership Recognition for July 2010Thank 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.
40 Years
Max Taxter, MD 7/10/1970
Jerzy Slobodow, MD 7/13/1970
20 Years
Daniel J. Dionne, MD 7/18/1990
George M. Momany, MD 7/18/1990
Morris E. Fuller, MD 7/18/1990
Myron E. Bloom, MD, MMM 7/18/1990
R. Dean Martz, MD 7/18/1990
Ward K. Chow, MD 7/18/1990
10 Years
Cameron J. Seibold, MD 7/10/2000
J. Edward Jones, MD, FACEP 7/17/2000
Melanie S. Lang, MD, DDS 7/17/2000
Timothy W. Powell, MD 7/17/2000
Jason H. Jones, MD 7/24/2000
SPOKANE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETYCONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION
2010 Program Schedule
SEPTEMBERModerate (Conscious) Sedation and Analgesia
Thursday, September 30Deaconess Health and Education Center
5:30 – 9:15 pm(SCMS’ annual program to satisfy JCAHO requirements and provide a refresher
course to members of the medical community in order to increase patient safety.)
NOVEMBERInfectious Disease Update 2010
Wednesday, November 3Deaconess Health and Education Center
5:30 – 9:15 pm(Three one-hour topics will be presented)
July SCMS Message 11
“That’s the one truly scary thing about health reform: far from
being a government takeover, it counts on local communities and
clinicians for success. We are the ones to determine whether costs
are controlled and health care improves—which is to say, whether
reform survives and resistance is defeated.”
—Atul Gawande, MD, Now what? The New Yorker, April 5, 2010
As you know, Group Health actively supported efforts to
get health reform passed in our nation. Since it passed, we’ve
been working energetically to determine what it means for our
members and providers.
What’s very apparent is that the focus of reform was on
expanding insurance coverage, not so much on correcting
financing incentives for patient care. This means that we’re still
practicing medicine in a health care system that pays for quantity of
care, rather than the value. And, in the words of respected Harvard
professor and surgeon Atul Gawande, MD: “This can’t continue.”
In his recent New Yorker column, Gawande says the task of
creating cost-saving, health care innovation will be left to local
communities like Boise, and Boston and Buffalo. “This is the way
costs will come down—or not,” he observes.
It’s up to physicians in Spokane too. We’ll need to work
together as a community to better integrate and coordinate care
to reduce costs and improve quality.
As I’ve mentioned before, Group Health is investing in several
ways to remove waste in the system while ensuring quality for our
patients. Our biggest initiatives are in:
Emergency Room transitions. Together with our partner
hospitals and our hospitalists, we’re making sure patients in
Emergency Departments are assessed and triaged for medical
necessity and educated about their out-of-pocket costs before
being automatically admitted into a hospital.
Better transitions from hospitals. We’re making sure our
hospitalized members are discharged to the appropriate next
point of care--whether its home, skilled nursing facility or
hospice. Then we’re ensuring they get prompt follow-up care,
cutting readmissions.
Shared decision making. We’re offering patient-teaching tools
to our contracted physicians and patients for many preference-
sensitive procedures, so patients know all their treatment options.
Patients report they are more prepared and informed, and those
who opt for surgery know it’s the best option for them personally.
Implementation of the medical home. Medical home is
now the primary care model for all of Group Health’s medical
centers. Two years of data show that it’s proven to be cost-
neutral, while leading to better outcomes and more satisfied
patients and physicians.
All these efforts couldn’t be done alone—they’ve required
leadership and time from our contracted hospitals and physicians.
Other medical practices in our community are experimenting too.
We’re glad to partner with you and try new approaches together.
We feel it’s our duty to do our part and let health reform succeed.
Keeping health reform affordable –The opportunity rests with us
What’s very apparent is that the focus of reform was on expanding insurance coverage, not so much on
correcting financing incentives for patient care.
Brad Pope, MD, is medical director for
Group Health Cooperative’s Eastern
Washington/North Idaho District, based
in Spokane. Dr. Pope started as a family
physician with Group Health in Spokane
in 1983. He still practices part-time as an
urgent care provider each week.
SCMS is interested in assisting our members to participate more actively in key community leadership roles.
If you become aware of an open board, commission or advisory committee position please notify Michelle Caird
at (509) 325-5010 or by email at [email protected].
July SCMS Message 14
Dr. Robert Notske volunteers as the Spokane County Medical
Society representative on numerous regional boards and councils.
Below he has provided a brief overview of the various committees.
Dr. Notske’s time and dedication to the members of the Spokane
County Medical Society is greatly appreciated.
Did you know that the SCMS has a role outside the direct,
daily practice of medicine in Spokane County? Since I asked
the question in that manner, the answer is obviously, “Yes.” An
SCMS representative sits on the Boards of the Spokane County
Emergency Medical Services and Trauma Council (County EMS
Council), the Region 9 Healthcare Coalition, and is a member of
the City/County Disaster Preparedness Committee.
The Spokane County EMS Council oversees the training and
practice of First Responders, Emergency Medical Technicians
(EMTs) and Paramedics. These are the folks who respond when
a “911” call is made. The Council is composed of fire fighter
representatives of the Fire Districts and their Physician advisors,
Heart Flight, the ambulance companies, affiliated agencies, the
Public Health Service, INHS, the Paramedic Training Program of
Spokane Community College, a lay representative, the Spokane
County EMS Program Director and the representative from SCMS.
The protocols for the evaluation and treatment of the medical
and trauma conditions which they might come upon come from
this group, as well as a special Peer Review Quality Improvement
section to oversee the results. Before the reorganization of Trauma
Care in the State, a new member of the Society received his/her
membership card and there was a notation on the back of the card
of one of the hospitals in the City/County to which the member
would report in case of a disaster. This could present a problem,
since there were times when the hospital assigned to the member
might have been one with which the member was not familiar, and
might not even have privileges to practice at that hospital. When
the Trauma care reorganization occurred the logical step was to
cede the process of assignment of duty to the local hospitals.
Each hospital would then establish its own “disaster/crisis” policy
and assign its own members their respective tasks during such
a period. When the “9/11 event” occurred, the Department of
Homeland Security provided a stronger impetus with directives
and money so that the organizations would be able to respond
more appropriately if a crisis were to occur. By the way, do you
know where and how you are to respond? The secretaries of the
Hospital Medical Services are the ones who have that information.
Following the threat of Avian Influenza, the Spokane County
Public Health Service organized a group of stakeholders to
work collaboratively and coordinate prevention, mitigation,
preparedness, emergency response and recovery activities. It
soon became evident that this response would be more effective
if it involved all of Region 9 of the State of Washington (the ten
easternmost counties of the State), and it would be logical to
have liaison with the neighboring Panhandle Health District. This
approach resulted in the organization of the Region 9 Healthcare
Coalition. This group includes, for example, but not all inclusive,
representatives from the Health Districts, hospitals, major medical
groups, response agencies, the tribes, Homeland Security,
Department of Emergency Management, Medical Reserve Corps,
a State DOH representative, and SCMS representative. Attention
is paid to an All Hazard Response, as well as an approach to the
possibility of an event overwhelming the capacity of the hospitals,
i.e. “surge capacity.” There are even trailers available to respond
with the basics of equipping Alternate Care Facilities for thirty
beds apiece. Emergent Mental Health Response and Mass Fatality
Response are also being added to the Response Plan. Not only
are plans developed and reviewed, there are frequent exercises to
test the effectiveness of the plans.
The City/County Disaster Preparedness Committee is
composed of many of the above agencies, as well as Red Cross,
communications experts, Animal Protection, and Relief Agencies
in a varied effort more specific to the City/County. As with the
missions of all of the disaster/crisis organizations the approach
is to prepare for, mitigate if possible, respond to and help in the
recovery of such an event.
This is a brief description of these organizations, their structure,
purpose and functions. While the County Medical Society is
usually considered interested mainly in the daily practice of
Medicine, one can see that it has an interest and a voice in
participating in the planning for the overall welfare of the people
of our Region.
Robert N. Notske, MD
Retired
Extraordinary SCMS Relationships
Did you know that the SCMS has a role outside the direct, daily practice of medicine in Spokane County?
July SCMS Message 15
Annual Senior Physicians Golf Tournament
“Brrrr!” That was the first word out of the mouths of many
of the participants of this year’s Annual Senior Physicians Golf
Tournament held at Manito Golf and Country Club on May 21. And,
“Brisk” would have been how a descriptive weather commentator
might have begun the evening’s daily weather report. The event
had been scheduled for the third week in May in an effort to have
warmer weather and try to attract the participation of some of
the “snow birds” who don’t return to Spokane until early May.
BUT, somehow
there was a lack
of communication
with the controller
of the weather.
(Perhaps some sort
of Congressional
investigation should
be launched over
this.)
In spite of the cool beginning to the eight o’clock shotgun
start, some of the seniors did exhibit warm to even hot games for
their respective handicaps. Maybe they were using the Nike balls
given to each player as they checked in. (Thank you Nike Golf!)
The results of the day were as follows:The 0-17 handicap trophy was awarded to Roy Zimmer – 64.
The 18-and over trophy was given to Bob Notske – 68.
And the Super Senior trophy went to Bob Kendall – 69.
Considering the fact that both Drs. Zimmer and Kendall were
on the same team, it is no surprise that their team, along with Dick
Steury and Bob Parker, won the 2-net best ball competition for
the teams. The closest team to them was 11 strokes away. “Break
them up next year”
could be the cry of
their competitors.
The winners of the
“Closest to the Pin”
competitions were
William Brownlee at
7’8” at hole #12 and
Bruce Ellingsen at
21’3” at hole #8.
The lunch and “door prizes” were underwritten and provided
by Travis Prewitt and Brad Desormeau of the Prewitt Group
wealth advisors of UBS - a member of the “Circle of Friends” of
the Spokane County
Medical Society.
There were prizes
aplenty, and many
went home with
balls, shirts and
golf accoutrements
following a fun lunch
and time for visiting
with old and dear
friends. The old adage could well apply. “A good time was had by
all!” Plan on joining us for next year’s event.Robert Notske, MD
Senior Physicians Committee Chair
Inland Northwest Medical Group Management Association
In 1971 regional medical office managers founded the
Northwest Medical Group Management Association (INMGMA)
to provide a local venue for meetings of interest to its members.
Our core purpose is to improve the effectiveness of medical group
practices and the knowledge and skills of the individuals who
manage them. We engage local speakers to hold ten educational
sessions per year on relevant healthcare management topics.
Members are able to access a wealth of knowledge from their
peers within the community, enhancing their skills in managing
your practice. Members also participate and receive the results
of the annual local medical office salary survey. The annual
membership fee of $70.00 covers the ten monthly educational
lunch meetings, plus a summer and winter social. For more
information about joining INMGMA, please contact Marsha Pinat,
Membership Coordinator, at 509-466-6393 ext. 22 or marshap@
orthospecialtyclinic.com or Robert Hartnett, 2010 President, at
509-363-3100 ext. 126 or [email protected].
A special Thank You to Committee Chair Robert “Bob” Notske for planning a
great golf tournament and lunch!
Talking with representatives from the Prewitt Group
Enjoying visiting with Fellow Golfers
Doctors discussing their golf game
July SCMS Message 16
On June 11, close to 300 individuals
attended Greater Spokane Incorporated’s
Good Morning Greater Spokane Breakfast
at The Lincoln Center. Keynote speaker
Paul Umbach of consulting firm Tripp
Umbach unveiled the economic impact
and benefits our region will see if medical
education in Spokane is expanded. Some
of the benefits and facts outlined in
Umbach’s presentation include:
research-intensive Academic Health
Science Center at Riverpoint; four-year
medical school, dentistry, nursing,
public and allied health programs.
expanding collaboration, building
education, research programs, student
training and interdisciplinary research.
recruited from out of Spokane
comes to fruition: $1.6 billion to the local
economy and over 9,000 new jobs.
ease Washington’s physician shortage
and bring more primary care doctors
to rural areas.
of Washington college students who
apply, potentially exporting those
future doctors out-of-state.
Panelists at the event also strongly
supporting the program included State
Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown; Dr.
Elson Floyd, President, Washington State
University; Scott Morris, President and
CEO, Avista; Dr. Suzanne Allen, Vice
Dean for Regional Affairs, UW School of
Medicine and Dr. Gary Knox, President,
Spokane County Medical Society.
Megan McNeal, Events Coordinator
Greater Spokane Incorporated
(509) 321-3630
Medical School Economic Impact Unveiled
One of the many benefits the Spokane
County Medical Society offers to its
physician-members is our Medical
Referral Line. This service allows SCMS
staff to support area medical practices by
providing names of physicians accepting
new patients to community members
who are searching for a physician. Our
sincere thanks to those of you who are
already members of our Medical Referral
Line!
We are in need of more physicians to
whom we can refer patients. Wouldn’t
you like to be part of this service, which
assists both the physician and the
patient? Is your practice able to accept
new patients? If so, please let us know
by calling 325-5010, and we’ll fax you
a Medical Referral Update form to
complete and return.
We welcome physicians in all
specialties, but our greatest need is for
primary care physicians – especially those
who accept Medicare and/or Medicaid!
Medical Referral Line
Gary Knox, MD and panel members discuss
4-year medical school in Spokane
July SCMS Message 17
July SCMS Message 18
The following physicians/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 104 S Freya St., Orange Flag Bldg #114, Spokane, Washington, 99202.
NEW PHYSICIANS
Frederick, Justin A., MD
Diagnostic Radiology
Med School: U of Virgina (2004)Internship: York Hospital (2005)Residency: Wake Forest U (2009)Fellowship: Ohio State U Medical Center (2010)Practicing with Inland Imaging Associates beginning 8/2010
Hamed, Ezedeen, MD
Internal Medicine
Med School: Damascus U, Syria (2001)Internship: U of Toledo (2007)Practicing with CHS Hospitalist Services beginning 8/2010
Jones, Kelly P., MD
Anesthesiology
Med School: St Christopher’s College of Medicine, United Kingdom (2006)Internship: U of North Dakota (2007) Case Western Reserve (2010)Practicing with Anesthesia Associates, PS beginning 7/2010
Malik, Asif U., MD
Internal Medicine
Med School: Allama Iqbal Medical College, Pakistan (1996)Internship/Residency: St Luke’s-Rooselvelt Hospital (2005)Practicing with CHS Hospitalist Services beginning 7/2010
Meltzer, Nathan P., MD
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Med School: The Brody School of Medicine (2006)Internship/Residency: U of Utah (2010)Practicing with Valley Obstetrics & Gynecology beginning 8/2010
Michels, Patricia E., MD
Anesthesiology
Med School: Oregon Health Sciences U (2005)Internship: Providence St Vincent’s Medical Center (2006)Residency: Oregon Health Sciences U (2009)Fellowship: Nationwide Children’s Hospital (2010)Practicing with Anesthesia Associates, PS beginning 8/2010 Pierce, Trenton L, MD
Anesthesiology
Med School: Loma Linda U (1999)Internship: Loma Linda U (2000)Residency: Duke U (2003)Fellowship: Duke U (2004)Practicing with Physician Anesthesia Group beginning 8/2010
Shabaneh Al-Tamimi, Hamed A., MD
Internal Medicine/Gastroenterology
Med School: Jordon U, Jordon (1992)Internship: Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center (1998)Residency: Texas Tech U (2000)Fellowship: Texas Tech U (2003)Practicing with Rockwood Digestive Health Center beginning 8/2010
Skylar, Ronald S., MD
Pediatrics/Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine
Med School: U of Cincinnati (1982)Internship/Residency: Oregon Health Sciences U Hospital (1985)Fellowship: Oregon Health Sciences U Hospital (1999)Practicing with Pediatrix Medical Group beginning 9/2010
Stiller, Lisa D., MD
Internal Medicine
Med School: U of Minnesota (1996)Internship/Residency: Thomas Jefferson U (1999)
Zarlingo, Monte F., MD
Diagnostic Radiology
Med School: U of California, San Francisco (1994)Internship/Residency: Baylor College of Medicine (2000)Fellowships: Memorial MRI Educational (2001), William Beaumont Hospital (2010)Practicing with Inland Imaging Associates, PS beginning 7/2010
NEW PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS
Bloxom, Gaye E., PA-C
Physician Assistant
Med School: U of Washington, Medex Northwest (1991)Practicing with Cancer Care Northwest beginning 7/2010
NEW PHYSICIANS PRESENTED A SECOND TIME
Belz, Sonja A., MD
Family Medicine
Med School: U of Washington (2006)Practicing with Rockwood Clinic, PS since 6/2010
Countryman, Nicholas B., MD
Dermatology
Med School: Yale U (2005)Practicing with Northwest Dermatology beginning 7/2010
Gottfried, Joseph D., MD
Internal Medicine
Med School: U of Pittsburgh (1999)Practicing with CHS Hospitalist Services beginning 7/2010
Grant, Dominique K., MD
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Med School: U of Washington (2006)Practicing with Spokane Obstetrics and Gynecology beginning 8/2010
New Physicians
Continued on page 20
July SCMS Message 20
Haymore, Jonathan G., MD
Ophthalmology
Med School: U of Rochester (2005)Practicing with Inland Eye Center beginning 7/2010
Lewis, Jami K., MD
Pediatrics
Med School: U of Oklahoma (2004)Practicing with Pediatrix Medical Group beginning 7/2010
Mounts, Jason A., MD
Pediatrics/Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Med School: Medical College of GeorgiaPracticing with Spokane Emergency Physicians beginning 7/2010
Mueller, Derk A., MD
Pediatrics/ Pediatric Critical Medicine
Med School: U of Kentucky (2004)Practicing with Pediatric Critical Care Associates beginning 7/2010
Page, William T., MD
Orthopaedic Surgery
Med School: U of Washington (2004)Practicing with Orthopaedic Specialty Clinic of Spokane, PLLC beginning 9/2010
Reese, Stephen A., MD
Surgery
Med School: Saba U, Netherlands (2002)Practicing with Rockwood Clinic, PS beginning 8/2010
Shirzad, Khalid, MD
Orthopaedic Surgery
Med School: Creighton U (2004)Practicing with Northwest Orthopaedic Specialists beginning 8/2010
Sun, Alan C., MD
Internal Medicine
Med School: Temple U (2007)Practicing with CHS Hospitalist Services beginning 7/2010
Tobar, Jorge G., MD
Internal Medicine/Pulmonary Disease
Med School: Universidad Central del Este, Dominican Republic (1984)Practicing with CHS Hospitalist Services beginning 10/2010
Vernon, Christopher D., DO
Internal Medicine/Critical Care Medicine
Med School: Western U of Health Sciences Osteo Med, Pacific (2005)Practicing with Spokane Critical Care beginning 7/2010
Wallace, Matthew K., MD
Orthopaedic Surgery/Sports Medicine
Med School: U of Texas, San Antonio (2004)Practicing with Northwest Orthopaedic Specialists, PS beginning 8/2010
Wheeler, Chad K., MD
Plastic Surgery
Med School: U of South Florida (2004)Practicing with Plastic Surgery Northwest, PLLC beginning 8/2010
CATEGORY I CME SEMINARS
MODERATE (CONSCIOUS) SEDATION AND ANALGESIA:
3.0 Hours of Category I CME credit, sponsored by the Spokane
County Medical Society. Conference held in September 30, 2010
at the Deaconess Health and Education Center. Contact Jennifer
Anderson at (509) 325-5010 or email [email protected] for
more information.
OTHER MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES
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.
CADUCEUS RECOVERY GROUP MEETING FOR HEALTHCARE
PROFESSIONALS: Meets every Thursday evening, 6:15 p.m. –
7:15 p.m., at 626 N. Mullan Rd, Spokane. Contact (509) 928-4102
for more information. Non-smoking meeting for Healthcare
Providers in recovery.
PHYSICIAN FAMILY FITNESS MEETING: Physician Family Fitness
is a recently created meeting for physicians, physician spouses,
and their adult family members to share their common problems
and solutions experienced in the course of a physician’s practice
and family life. The meetings are on Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. – 8
p.m. at the Sacred Heart Providence Center for Faith and Healing
Building, due east of the traffic circle near the main entrance of
SHMC. Enter, turn right, go down the stairs, Room 14 is on your
right. Format: 12-Step principles, confidential and anonymous
personal sharing; No dues or fees. Guided by Drs. Bob and Carol
Sexton. The contact phone number is (509) 624-7320.
Meetings & Events
Please support our advertise#.
July SCMS Message 22
FAMILY MEDICINE W/OB: We are looking for a Physician to join
our dedicated team at the Spokane Falls Family Clinic. If you have
a passion for working with the underserved and enjoy full scope
family medicine, we would like you to consider what we have to
offer! A few of our benefits include: a competitive compensation
and benefits package, a great work/life balance, hiring bonus and
relocation package, visa sponsorship, EMR in all our clinics, and a
monthly stipend for 3rd year residents. SFFC is part of the Yakima
Valley Farm Workers Clinic. YVFWC is the largest community
health center in the Pacific Northwest. We are dedicated to
providing our patients with the highest quality care and offer
them affordable health care options. Apply online at www.yvfwc.
com or contact Tanya Gutierrez, Provider Recruiter via email at
[email protected] or call 1-877-983-9247 for more information.
PHYSICIAN OPPORTUNITIES AT CHAS: At Community Health
Association of Spokane (CHAS), we believe doctors should
practice what they are passionate about: serving patients and the
community. We are looking for physicians to join our great team!
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. Experience pure patient care at CHAS. To
learn more about physician employment opportunities, contact
April Gleason at 509-710-8046 or [email protected].
PROVIDENCE PHYSICIAN SERVICES is recruiting for BE/BC
Med-Peds physicians to join us in Spokane, the urban center
of spectacular eastern Washington. Excellent opportunity to
join a collegial, physician-led medical group affiliated with the
region’s most comprehensive and caring hospitals. Providence
offers generous hiring incentives, competitive compensation,
comprehensive benefits, and flexible work arrangements to fit
individual needs. Contact: Mark Rearrick, Mark.Rearrick@providence.
org, (509) 474-6605, www.providence.org/physicianopportunities .
PROVIDENCE PHYSICIAN SERVICES is recruiting for BE/BC
Family Physicians (no OB) to join us in Spokane, the urban center
of spectacular eastern Washington. Excellent opportunity to
join a collegial, physician-led medical group affiliated with the
region’s most comprehensive and caring hospitals. Providence
offers generous hiring incentives, competitive compensation,
comprehensive benefits and flexible work arrangements to fit
individual needs. Contact: April Mayer, April.Mayer@providence.
org , (509) 474-6609, www.providence.org/physicianopportunities
PROVIDENCE PHYSICIAN SERVICES is recruiting for BE/
BC Pediatricians to join us in Spokane, the urban center of
spectacular eastern Washington. Excellent opportunity to
join a collegial, physician-led medical group affiliated with the
region’s most comprehensive and caring hospitals. Providence
offers generous hiring incentives, competitive compensation,
comprehensive benefits, and flexible work arrangements to fit
individual needs. Contact: Pat Isakson, Pat.Isakson@providence.
org, (509) 474-6604, www.providence.org/physicianopportunities
Positions Available
e medical profession and healthcare community should foster physician well-being
A sense of community with one’s peers is vital to personal well-being
Changes in the healthcare environment and contributing to personal and professional challenges and new stressors for physicians
Physicians should have resources available to them to anticipate and manage episodic personal issues
Physician Health is Important.Eastern Washington Physician Health Committee
We are available to assistyou in the following areas:
Steve BrisboisMichael Metcalf Paul Russell Phil Delich Michael Moore
Robert Sexton Jim Frazier
Mira Narkiewicz Patrick Shannon Deb Harper
Sam Palpant Alexandra Wardzala Mike Henneberry Tad Patterson Hershel Zellman
COMMITTEE MEMBERSJim Shaw, MD,
July SCMS Message 23
Classified AdsREAL ESTATE
LUXURY CONDOS FOR RENT/PURCHASE NEAR HOSPITALS: 2
Bedroom Luxury Condos at the City View Terrace Condominiums
are available for rent or purchase. These beautiful condos are
literally within walking distance to the Spokane Hospitals (1/4
mile from Sacred Heart, 1 mile from Deaconess). Security gate,
covered carports, very secure and quiet. Newly Remodeled. Full
appliances, including full-sized washer and dryer. Wired for cable
and phone. For Rent $ 850/month. For Sale: Seller Financing
Available. Rent-to-Own Option Available: $400 of your monthly
rent will credit towards your purchase price. Please Contact Dr.
Taff (888) 930-3686 or [email protected].
PRIEST LAKE WATERFRONT CABIN FOR RENT: Beautiful 2
story cedar cabin “The Water’s Edge” on the East Shore--Sleeps
8-10. Spectacular lake and mountain views, dock. See it at www.
getlostatpriestlake.com or call 1-208-443-2100 or 1-877-443-LAKE.
MEDICAL OFFICES/BUILDINGS
GOOD LOCATION AND SPACIOUS SUITE available next to
Valley Hospital on Vercler. 2,429 sq ft in building and less than
10 years old. Includes parking and maintenance of building.
Please call Carolyn at Spokane Cardiology (509) 455-8820.
NORTHPOINTE MEDICAL CENTER Located on the North side
of Spokane, the Northpointe Medical Center offers modern,
accessible space in the heart of a complete medical community. If
you are interested in locating your business here, please contact
Tim Craig at (509) 688-6708. Basic info: $23 sq/ft annually. Full
service lease. Starting lease length 5 years which includes an $8
sq/ft tenant improvement allowance. Available space: *Suite 210
- 2286 sq/ft *Suite 209 - 1650 sq/ft *Suite 205 - 1560 sq/ft *Suite
302 - 2190 sq/ft
FOR LEASE 3700 SQ FT OF SECOND FLOOR SPACE in a new
18,900 sq ft building available December 2009. It is located just
a few blocks from the Valley Hospital at 1424 N. McDonald (just
South of Mission). First floor tenant is Spokane Valley Ear Nose
Throat & Facial Plastics. $24 NNN. Please call Geoff Julian for
details (509) 939-1486 or email [email protected].
SUBLEASE - FURNISHED MEDICAL OFFICE SPACE: Need
immediate space for one or more north Spokane care providers?
This shared suite is ready for occupancy; all furniture and exam
room equipment included. Two exam rooms, one provider office,
one nurse’s station and shared surgery suite, medical records
storage area, reception and waiting area. 963 sq ft total, original
lease $23/sq ft; will negotiate lower rate. Excellent location in a
full-service medical building with lab and full radiology services.
For more information, call (509) 981-9298.
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