Valerie Jones MD

MAY | 2016 

THE 

A Monthly Newsmagazine of Spokane County Medical Society 

A Provider’s Role 

in Curbing Cravings 

Your Emergency 

Cash Reserve 

GME Reform to Meet the 

Nation’s Health Needs 

Valerie 

Jones, MD 

Exercise is 

Meditation 

The Message | May 2016 | A

Table of Contents 

2016 Officers and 

Board of Trustees: 

Clinton Hauxwell, MD 

President 

John McCarthy, MD 

President-Elect 

Matthew Hollon, MD 

Immediate Past President 

Carla Smith, MD, PhD 

Vice President 

Mathew Rawlins, MD 

Secretary-Treasurer 

Trustees: 

Charles Benage, MD 

Audrey Brantz, MD 

Elizabeth Grosen, MD 

Brenda Houmard, MD, PhD 

Frank Otto, MD 

Geraldine Peterdy, MD 

Darryl Potyk, MD 

Justin Racht, MD 

Brian Tryon, MD 

Robert Wood, PA-C 

Newsmagazine Editor: 

John McCarthy, MD 

Spokane County Medical 

Society The Message. 

A monthly newsmagazine 

published by the Spokane 

County Medical Society. 

Advertising Correspondence: 

SCMS Publications 

Attn: Shelly Bonforti 

901 E. 2nd Ave., Ste. 301, 

Spokane, WA 99202 

509-325-5010 

Fax 509-325-5409 

shelly@spcms.org 

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. 

President’s Message 

The Benefits of Belonging.................................................................................................2 

Calendar of Events........................................................................................................3 

Valerie Jones, MD: 

Exercise is Meditation..........................................................................................................4 

Medical Education Happenings 

Research Demonstrates Value of Prescription Assistance Program...................7 

Medical Family Legacies....................................................................................................8 

GME Reform to Meet the Nation’s Health Needs........................................9 

New Members and Membership Recognition..........................................10 

Engage Your Community........................................................................................10 

In Memoriam 

Richard E. Ahlquist, Jr., MD..............................................................................................11 

Stephen R. Sears, MD.......................................................................................................11 

SCMS 1st Wednesday Member Mixer............................................................12 

In The News 

Inland Imaging is Pleased to Welcome Joshua Garcia, MD, 

to our Professional Subspecialist Radiology Team.................................................13 

James Nania, MD, FACEP, Receives WA-ACEP 

2016 Nancy Auer Meritorious Award.........................................................................13 

Henry Mroch, MD, Awarded 2016 Spokane WWAMI 

Track Teacher of the Year................................................................................................13 

Your Emergency Cash Reserve...........................................................................14 

A Provider’s Role in Curbing Cravings..........................................................15 

Making Full Use of Your SCMS Membership 

Create Your Membership Experience!........................................................................16 

Classified Ads 

Real Estate............................................................................................................................17 

Medical Offices/Buildings................................................................................................17 

Meetings/Conferences/Events......................................................................................18 

Positions Available.............................................................................................................18 

“IF YOU WANT TO CHANGE THE OUTCOME 

YOU HAVE TO CHANGE THE INVESTMENT.” 

— TOBY MAC 

The Message | May 2016 | 1

President’s Message 

The Benefits of Belonging 

By Clinton Hauxwell, MD | SCMS President 

I am writing this article at 30,000 feet, flying 

to Spokane after spending several days in 

Washington, D.C., with a team from Greater 

Spokane Incorporated (GSI). While in the 

nation’s capitol, we met with our federal 

representatives and their aides regarding the 

issues that are important to the residents of 

the Inland Northwest. The topics discussed 

were many, and included expanded funding 

for graduate medical education, the establishment of the WSU 

Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, and expansion of the 

University of Washington School of Medicine in Spokane. We were 

reminded, of course, that these concerns require resources— 

something that is always in short supply in these days of billion 

dollar national deficits. Similarly, on the local level, our large 

healthcare organizations are always looking for ways to improve 

the bottom line. Unfortunately, this has impacted the Spokane 

County Medical Society, as local medical institutions have dropped 

SCMS membership from the list of benefits offered to their 

employed Providers. So now, physicians and physician assistants 

must choose to maintain Society involvement by paying for dues 

out-of-pocket. Not surprisingly, many are asking themselves ‘What 

value does SCMS participation bring to my professional and 

personal life?’ Membership, I would argue, has many benefits. 

1. Continuing Medical Education—SCMS sponsors a yearly CME 

conference in the fall, featuring both local and national speakers. 

This meeting has received excellent reviews, with attendance 

reaching a new high last year. This year’s meeting will be held 

on October 7, and the planning committee has assembled an 

impressive line-up of presenters. 

Our Community’s #1 Choice in Hospice Care 

“Every single patient, we’re identifying 

what their needs are and how we’re going 

to meet those needs. We do that from the 

context of being the oldest, largest and 

only community nonprofit.” 

– Dr. Bob Bray, Hospice of Spokane 

Medical Director 

Serving patients and families since 1977 

Comfort. Dignity. Peace of Mind. 

509.456.0438 • hospiceofspokane.org 

2. Maintenance of Professional Relationships—SCMS supports a 

number of social activities designed to promote collegiality and 

foster stronger relationships among local medical providers. The 

monthly mixer, held on the first Wednesday of every month, has 

been a great success, allowing local Providers to maintain those 

personal and professional relationships that are so important in 

the medical field. Perhaps more importantly, it provides a forum 

for medical and PA students to meet established members of 

our healthcare community. Similarly, the annual summer cruise 

in July and General Membership Meeting in January both serve 

to promote a sense of unity and cooperation. 

3. Neutrality—As the number of physicians in private practice 

dwindles and the majority of healthcare is delivered by a few 

large organizations, SCMS stands as an impartial body for 

honest discourse among colleagues and an impartial advocate 

for patients and providers. 

4. The Wellness Program—As I discussed in an earlier article, 

the rate of physician burnout is alarming—estimated to be 

well over fifty percent. Many medical providers are in need of 

mental healthcare, whether it be an empathetic ear to listen, or 

more formal counseling. Unfortunately, we often loathe seeking 

help due to concerns regarding confidentiality or the perceived 

stigma associated with such care. In response to this need, 

the SCMS Foundation has established the Wellness Program, 

which provides members eight sessions with a local 

psychologist. These appointments take place in a neutral 

location, with the cost covered by the Foundation. This service 

has already benefited healthcare providers in our community. 

5. Advocacy—The Spokane County Medical Society advocates 

on behalf of its members at the local, state, and federal levels. 

Members of the SCMS executive committee attend the yearly 

Washington State Medical Association House of Delegates 

and take part in the annual GSI Washington, D.C., fly-in, 

representing the concerns and needs of the greater Spokane 

medical community. 

6. Website and Physician Directory—As most of you are aware, 

SCMS has a new, reworked website that provides each member 

with a professional, customizable profile that can be accessed 

by both colleagues and patients seeking medical care. For 

many individuals who are new to our community, this will be 

the first site they will view when performing a search for a Health 

Provider. Each member also receives a print copy of the 

Provider Directory—a publication that is often used in my office. 

And so when your colleagues ask you why you belong to the 

Spokane County Medical Society, explain to them that involvement 

brings value to your practice and personal life, and encourage 

them to consider joining SCMS as well. n 

2 | Spokane County Medical Society

Calendar of Events 

901 E. 2nd Ave., Ste. 301, Spokane, WA 99202 

Phone: (509) 325-5010 • Fax: (509) 325-5409 • www.spcms.org 

MAY 

Senior Physician’s 

Golf Tournament 

May 20, Friday 

Manito Golf & Country Club 

JUNE 

1st Wed. Member Mixer 

June 1, Wednesday 

5:30 pm — 8:00 pm 

Marketplace Wineries 

39 W. Pacific Ave. 

Sponsored by: 

Unify Community Health 

JULY 

Summer River Cruise 

July 21, Thursday 

6:00 pm — 9:00 pm 

The Serendipity, 

Templin’s Marina 

AUGUST 


August 3, Wednesday 

5:30 pm — 8:00 pm 



SEPTEMBER 


September 7, Wednesday 

5:30 pm — 8:00 pm 



Sponsored by: Incyte Diagnostics 

OCTOBER 

WSMA 

House of Delegates 

October 1 - 2, 

Saturday-Sunday 

SeaTac Hilton, Seattle 


October 5, Wednesday 

5:30 pm — 8:00 pm 



Sponsored by: Inland Imaging 

Medicine 2016 

October 7, Friday 

Red Lion Hotel at the Park 

7:00 am — 5:00 pm 

Questions? Contact 

karen@spcms.org 

Senior 

Physicians Dinner 

October 20, Thursday, 5:00 pm 

Manito Golf & Country Club 

NOVEMBER 


November 2, Wednesday 

5:30 pm — 8:00 pm 



Sponsored by: Inland Imaging 

DECEMBER 


December 7, Wednesday 

5:30 pm — 8:00 pm 



Sponsored by: 

Asset Planning & Management, Inc. 

If you have any questions regarding an event, please call SCMS at (509) 325-5010 

between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, or email shelly@spcms.org 

We need your help to walk with groups 

of children to school weekday mornings. 

BENEFITS: 

• keep kids safe 

• enjoy regular exercise 

• connect with a neighborhood 

• meet new people 

• support parents and caretakers 

• be a part of a team 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• attend training 

• adhere to program procedures 

• reliable attendance 

• agree to background check 

• commit to at least 

one morning per week 

Call to register! 

509.324.1452 

Training and program 

gear provided. 

CONTACT 

Annie Szotkowski - Walking School Bus Organizer 

509.324.1452 | aszotkowski@srhd.org 

Brought to 

you by: 

Endorsed by: 


In-Depth Interview 

Valerie Jones, MD: 

Exercise Is Meditation 

By Shelly Bonforti 

SCMS Development Coordinator 

For most people the word “meditation” brings to mind a serene 

environment where one is sitting motionless in silence. However, 

one does not need to be standing still to be deep in thought. 

Rather than a retreat, meditation can be done while walking, house 

cleaning, or even during intense exercise. 

Ed Decker writes in Meditation in Motion, “Meditation helps bring 

body and mind together, making them allies rather than adversaries. 

When you unify your concentration and your physical sensations, it’s 

no longer about the finish line; it’s about embracing each step of the 

journey along the way.” 

Valerie Jones, MD, wholeheartedly supports this line of thought. 

“I have come to realize that exercise is meditation,” she declared. 

“I start my day with it to get my mind centered, to burn off anxieties 

and frustrations, and to feel the endorphin rush. I turn on my music 

and tune out the world.” 

Dr. Jones engages regularly in high intensity interval training and 

heavy weight lifting for relaxation. “I’ve been an athlete all my life, so 

I’ve been working on various ‘core competencies’ over the years. 

For example, five years ago I was working on long distance running. 

When I achieved my goal of completing a half marathon in under two 

hours, I decided to try bodybuilding next. It was 180 degrees different, 

but patience is a virtue with both sports,” she explains. “Weight lifting 

and sprinting feel good,” she continued. “I like to do a set of lifts until 

I can’t complete the last one from muscle fatigue. Some people call 

this ‘failure’ but that is such a misnomer. Taking your body to the edge 

of its capabilities is how you make it stronger. It’s a metaphor for life – 

push your limits, strive for excellence, learn from mistakes, repeat until 

you can do something even more challenging.” 

According to shape.com, “High-intensity interval training (HIIT) 

describes any workout that alternates between intense bursts of 

activity and fixed periods of less-intense activity or even complete 

rest. Research shows you can achieve more progress in a mere 15 

minutes of interval training (done three times a week) than the girl 

jogging on the treadmill for an hour.” [1] 

Although she started out as a runner, Jones found that it wasn’t 

helping her in the ways she would like. “At the risk of sounding 

outrageously superficial,” she defended, “I guess I noticed that 

all the long distance running was changing my appearance in a 

way I didn’t like. My muscles were stringy and flat, my skin was 

becoming gaunt, I had chronic blisters and a few joint pains. It was 

basically aging me. So I decided to address my ‘flat butt syndrome’ 

with a pivot to bodybuilding,” she clarified. “As far as bodybuilding 

goes, I did ask myself what my ‘end game’ was with this venture. 

When I was running, my goals were pretty obvious. I wanted to 

finish a certain distance by a certain time. But then when you look 

at strength sports, you begin to wonder what you’re aiming at? 

Did I want to paint myself orange and get judged in a bikini? Not 

really. But I did look into it. I attended the Olympia bodybuilding 

competition event in Las Vegas a few years ago to see if I wanted 

to get more involved. From a medical perspective it concerned me. 

People were so obviously taking steroids and distorting their health. 

I vowed never to do that – and with that vow went any hope of ever 

competing in this sport, which I’m okay with,” she explained. 

“What I love about high intensity training and weight lifting is 

the feeling of accomplishment in doing something you didn’t 

think you could manage,” she expounded. “You just need to be 

internally motivated and disciplined. Half of the bodybuilding battle 

is exercise, but the other half is nutrition. I cook my meals a week in 

advance and portion them out in Tupperware containers and take 

them with me. I eat the same exact thing six days a week. My diet 


consists of egg whites, ground turkey, Greek yogurt, brown rice, 

oats, vegetables, protein bars and nut butter,” she described. “My 

friends think I’m completely crazy and they even gag sometimes 

when they watch me eat my bodybuilding meals. I’ve had trainers 

over the years who have had fun working out with me, but right now 

I’m just working out solo. If there’s anyone out there who would like 

to work out with me after reading this, I’d love to meet them!” 

Jones works out at Gold’s Gym on 57th Street in Spokane. 

“They are open at 4 am and the people there are very friendly and 

energetic,” she stated. “It’s motivating to walk into a place at 4:30 in 

the morning and hear music pumping and see so many people in 

there ‘crushing it’ so early.” 

A typical workday for Dr. Jones is quite full and long, but 

rewarding as well. As the Medical Director of Admissions for 

St. Luke’s, she is the primary medical reviewer for the 102-bed 

hospital, and she carries a caseload of 50-80 patients a day. “I 

am a morning person, so I’m up at 4 or 4:30 a.m. I usually start by 

checking my email to see if there’s anything time-sensitive that I 

need to respond to. Then I head off to the gym. I get to work at 7:30 

or so, and spend the rest of my day reviewing patient referrals at 

three different hospitals (Sacred Heart, Holy Family and Deaconess) 

with five case managers,” she illuminated. “I also handle all of our 

out-of-town patient reviews. I write full consult notes and insurance 

appeals on about 10-15 patients per day and attend length-ofstay 

meetings and discharge planning groups all over Spokane. 

Needless to say, my days are very full and I’m running full tilt from 

dawn till dusk. But I am passionate about getting patients the 

rehabilitation help they need, and I consider my job like a big Easter 

egg hunt ... I am genuinely excited about every patient I find who 

needs rehab!” 

Dr. Jones spent her formative years in Manhattan. She grew up 

watching movies like Conan the Barbarian and admits to being 

“drawn in like a kid to a super hero cartoon book. I wanted to 

be like Grace Jones (with the same last name, we could have 

been related, right?). Back 

then I didn’t know how to 

build muscle successfully. 

I remember trying to do 

Jane Fonda workouts and 

wondering why I wasn’t seeing 

results. I ended up joining 

the ski team instead,” she 

confessed. 

Jones was working as a 

locum tenens physician and St. 

Luke’s was one of her clients. “I 

have had licenses in 14 states 

and was traveling constantly 

for six years. My husband 

was hoping I’d settle down a 

bit, so he suggested I choose 

the best facility with the most 

growth potential. That was St. Luke’s,” she professed. “We have an 

incredible team of very talented nurses, doctors, and therapists who 

can ‘make the lame walk and the blind see.’ The amazing beforeand-after 

stories of people with orthopedic and neurologic injuries, 

medical debility, and heart and lung problems are extraordinary. We 

add life to years and we get people home!” 

Valerie enjoys mentoring bright young minds, and volunteered at 

Boys and Girls Clubs of America from 2008 to 2015. “I was asked 

to MC the ‘Youth of the Year’ awards in Washington, D.C. I got to 

know some amazing kids who had survived incredible adversity to 

get where they were. I was so proud of them, I wanted to be a part 

of their life stories,” she proclaimed. “I became the nutrition coach 

for the annual Fit Family Challenge,” she continued. “I traveled to 

Los Angeles to be a judge and MC for the event with Mario Lopez. It 

was fun to see these talented kids learn to choose healthy lifestyles 

IN-DEPTH INTERVIEW CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 


IN-DEPTH INTERVIEW CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 

and take that message to others. Now that I’ve moved to Spokane, 

I will probably not be as involved. But it was a wonderful time in my 

life,” she shared. 

“I think my exercise work ethic and nutritional discipline are just 

an outgrowth of my character. A college professor once remarked 

that I seemed to have ‘nuclear energy’. I am a passionate, hardworking 

person who loves a challenge. My career has been a wild 

ride because I’ll try anything once. I’ve held jobs in and out of the 

healthcare world. From restaurant quality assurance to vaccine 

research to journal editing and being a podcaster and TV segment 

anchor,” she revealed. n 

Dr. Valerie Jones, a graduate of Columbia University College of 

Physicians and Surgeons, provides consultative service at acute care 

hospitals in Spokane and throughout the region St. Luke’s serves as the 

Medical Director for Admissions. She was first drawn to medicine by the 

pediatric surgeon who saved her life as a child. She then became interested 

in rehabilitation medicine while caring for adults with disabilities as a group 

home assistant and through her work with the Ontario March of Dimes. 

She became a summer undergraduate research fellow at the Mayo Clinic 

department of biophysics where she studied craniofacial reconstruction 

prediction imaging software. She later went on to assist with vaccine 

research and then plastic and reconstructive surgery projects. 

She completed her Rehabilitation Medicine residency as chief resident 

at Saint Vincent’s Catholic Medical Center in New York. She then served as 

senior medical director for Revolution Health Group, volunteer physiatrist at 

Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Doc Talker Family Medicine and various 

hospitals as a locum tenens. Dr. Jones is board certified by the American 

Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 

Dr. Jones is an award-winning writer, health journalist and physician 

educator. She has been featured as a frequent medical expert on ABC 

News in Washington, DC and CNN Headline News as well as contributes to 

PBS and Scientific American online. She is also a member of the National 

Press Club, a podcast host for Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc., a 

regular speaker at various medical conferences and a pioneer of using 

social media to advance medical knowledge. 

Dr. Jones enjoys early morning, high intensity interval and strength 

training sessions six days a week. She is the owner of an exotic cat, has a 

ridiculous number of Delta frequent flier miles and has licenses to practice 

medicine in 13 states. Follow Dr. Jones on Twitter: @drval. Her blog is: 

getbetterhealth.com 

References: 

[1] Andersen, C.A. 8 Benefits of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) And why it needs to be 

part of your regular workout routine. Retrieved from www.shape.com/fitness/workouts/ 

8-benefits-high-intensity-interval-training-hiit. Accessed April 18, 2016. 

NOW 

HIRING 

Primary Care 

Providers 



Research Demonstrates Value of 

Prescription Assistance Program 

By Lorraine Nelson 

Washington State University Spokane 

Retired Spokane physician Dr. Samuel Selinger was extremely 

pleased when an academic journal published a research paper 

April 1 about the Spokane Prescription Assistance Network (SPAN). 

He was pleased not only because he and others had envisioned 

and planned for the research study more than 10 years ago, but also 

because of the paper’s findings – that a group of Spokane patients 

experienced fewer hospitalizations and ER visits in the year after 

they began receiving their medications consistently. 

“This program has been such a phenomenal collaboration 

involving state legislators of both parties, the pharmaceutical 

industry, hospitals, universities, healthcare providers and clinics,” 

Selinger said. “The research findings confirm that we’ve graduated 

from a do-good program into something that is bringing healthcare 

resources into the community and that is having a positive impact 

on the health of the community.” 

The research study was published in the peer-reviewed Journal 

of Managed Care Pharmacy and showed there was an overall 

decrease in emergency room visits and hospital admissions for 

the 310 Spokane patients who participated in the study. Those 

who received help with pulmonary medications had the largest 

drop in those acute care contacts. However, not all the patients 

experienced a decrease in acute care incidents. Those who were 

taking psychotropic medications had more acute care contacts, and 

so did the young adult age group 18-24. Those are questions not 

answered by this study, but perhaps something for future research 

projects, Selinger noted. 

The lead author on the SPAN study is a Ph.D. student in 

interdisciplinary studies at Washington State University Spokane. 

Selinger served as a collaborating author on the paper, as did 

Washington State University Spokane faculty in nursing, pharmacy 

and medicine. 

Selinger and the others who organized SPAN decided from its 

opening in 2008 that SPAN would collect information from patients 

for an eventual research study to measure the program’s value. 

SPAN was the pilot project in what is now the statewide Prescription 

Drug Assistance Foundation. The foundation actually grew out 

of a larger project Selinger initiated to combine and distribute as 

needed the charity care offered by Spokane’s physicians. 

That was Project Access – an idea Selinger picked up from a 

one-week healthcare course at the Kennedy School of Government 

in the year 2000 shortly after he semi-retired from practice. 

Selinger enlisted the help of the Spokane County Medical 

Society, which put out the call for physicians to pool their charity 

care, and almost immediately about 100 docs signed on. (That 

has since grown to about 600.) Providence Health took on the 

role of coordinating. 

Once Project Access was up and running, organizers realized they 

would have to address the issue of access to prescription medication. 

“I was naïve as a doctor,” Selinger said. “I was a surgeon and 

gave prescriptions after surgery and assumed the patient got the 

Dr. Samuel Selinger 

medicine. It wasn’t until I got into this nonprofit organization that 

I realized there is a gap between prescribing medications and 

compliance by the patient, either because they cannot afford 

the medication or there is no one to get it for them or help them 

remember to take it.” 

The group of volunteers driving Project Access analyzed the 

options, which were to buy and warehouse medications to give 

to patients, or to work directly with the pharmaceutical companies 

because they all have programs offering free and reduced-price 

medicines to eligible low-income. 

They opted to work with the companies, but rather than simply 

refer the patients to the companies, they agreed upon a need to 

have a patient prescription coordinator. 

They went to state legislators in 2005 it was then-state Senate 

Majority Leader Lisa Brown of Spokane who helped the group 

get legislation passed to create the nonprofit Prescription Drug 

Assistance Foundation. 

After the pilot project was done in Spokane, the foundation 

branched out across the state, but it remains based in Spokane. 

Executive Director, Kelly Armstrong, is a social worker who staffs 

patient clinics as well as oversees the statewide network of clinics 

and coordinators, answers to a statewide board of directors, and 

does fundraising and grant writing for the foundation. 

Selinger has kept figures on the Spokane clinic and reports 

it gets referrals of patients from about 62 different entities and 

works directly with about 38 pharmaceutical companies to get 

the medications. Providence has been the major funder of the 

Spokane program, and provides it with office space and salary for 

the director. 

Selinger was chair of the foundation for a number of years until 

he could no longer serve because of the term limits for the position. 

He has since continued his involvement as a volunteer. 

“Now that we have this paper which answers some questions 

about the impact of this program and shows we are successful,” 

Selinger said, “I am hoping to give the reins to this project over to 

the next generation and say ‘Here’s this wonderful project that you 

can grow, and because it is such a unique collaboration among so 

many different segments of the community, we can be models and 

leaders for others.’” n 


8 | Spokane County Medical Society 


By Darryl Potyk, MD, FACP 

Assistant Dean for Regional Affairs & Clinical Professor 

University of Washington School of Medicine 

Associate Program Director 

Providence Internal Medicine Residency Spokane 

We are fortunate in Spokane to have a surprising number of 

what I refer to as “medical family legacies.” These are families in 

which subsequent generations have practiced and are practicing 

medicine here in Spokane. The list includes (but is not limited to) 

the following: the Arguinchona’s, Ellingsen’s, LaSalle’s, Bruya/Reed, 

Edminster’s, Garman’s, Miller’s, Pokorny’s, Dittman’s, Schemmel’s, 

Sestero’s, Sorensen/Bishop, Vanderwilde’s, Wilhelm’s, and Holbert’s. 

What do these medical family legacies tell us? I’m sure there are 

many different answers to this question, but here’s my answer. The 

first generation physician for each of these families has been a role 

model and has passed along the joy they experienced through the 

practice of medicine along with the idea that it is a privilege to help 

people through the art and science of medicine. What a gift! 

This tradition continues. There are three Spokane medical family 

legacies emerging with several outstanding young people graduating 

from the UW School of Medicine in just a few short weeks. These are, 

Peter Edminster (dad, Scott Edminster, longtime ER physician at DMC; 

brother, Joel Edminster, ER physician at SHMC) who will be pursuing a 

career in rural family medicine with a residency through the Spokanebased 

Family Medicine Rural Training Track in Colville. Jack Storey 

Medical Family Legacies 

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(dad, Don Storey, IM/Pulmonary Medicine & 1992 SCMS President) 

will be starting his career as an Emergency Medicine physician 

with a residency at UC San Diego and Lauren Benson (mom, Judy 

Benson, IM, Director Graduate Medical Education – Spokane) will be 

staying local and will be starting her residency here with the Internal 

Medicine program. 

Lauren Benson’s family legacy is interesting and runs a little 

deeper. She wasn’t sure she would pursue a career in medicine; 

after completing her undergraduate studies at Whitman College, 

she paused and spent a year with AmeriCorps which she served 

at the Spokane Native Project. She stayed on for an additional year 

working on a grant examining the potential for storytelling to enhance 

preventative care. These experiences allowed her to conclude that 

Medicine was indeed the right field to pursue and she was accepted 

to UWSOM-Spokane. Lauren has spent the majority of her medical 

school career here in Spokane (all but one month). While like others 

mentioned above, I’m sure she overheard conversations and heard 

some things at the dinner table that she wishes she hadn’t heard. Yet, 

she was inspired to help people and to pursue our shared profession. 

In addition to her mother being a terrific role model, while in medical 

school the family legacy deepened. Her father, Randy Benson has 

a PhD in Microbiology and was tapped as a local expert to teach 

microbiology to the medical students here in Spokane for four years. 

During his tenure Randy was very well received and received many 

accolades for his teaching style and ability. I can’t imagine what is like 

to have a stare down with one of your parents, not only at home but 

also in the classroom. Yet, this family pulled it off well. Lauren went on 

to be elected to the Gold Humanism Society and to the Alpha Omega 

Alpha Honor Society. With good grades and board scores along with 

these recognitions, Lauren had her pick of where to go for her Internal 

Medicine residency; yet she chose to stay here in Spokane. Again, 

I’ll go out on a limb here, I think (or want to believe) that this speaks to 

two things – the increasing quality of medical education available here 

locally along with the increased capacity for local medical education. 

The quality of medical education here is excellent. Currently, the 

UW School of Medicine – Spokane offers an enhanced Foundations 

Curriculum that features active learning through a flipped classroom 

model along with early exposure to clinical medicine. In the clinical 

phase of medical education, students get the best of both worlds; 

a “county-like experience” caring for the disenfranchised in a 

hierarchical team-based approached with residents; along with the 

opportunity to work with all of you; physicians in practice who can 

show students what life is like after residency. What a great mix! 

WSU will be opening its own medical school with its own newly 

minted and accredited curriculum in the near future to further 

expand undergraduate medical education opportunities. Local 

residency positions have grown as well, and there is talk about 

further expansion of residency programs. Unfortunately, starting 

new GME programs and securing funding for them is challenging. 

While graduate medical education (residencies) is growing a bit 

more slowly than undergraduate medical education, there have 

been modest gains in this area, with more to follow. 

All that being said, Spokane has a growing number of medical 

family legacies, one that will continue to grow as medical education 

takes on a more prominent role in our community. While I would like 

to congratulate the newest members of our medical community, 

we also owe a debt of gratitude to those more senior members of 

these families – those who were the role models, motivators and 

supporters along the way. Thank you. n

GME Reform to Meet 

the Nation’s Health Needs 

By Suzanne Allen, MD 

Vice Dean for Academic, Rural and Regional Affairs, 

UW School of Medicine 

The University of Washington School 

of Medicine (UWSOM) is committed to 

exemplary graduate medical education 

(GME). Each year ~1600 residents 

and fellows train in GME programs in 

Washington. Through initiatives to bring 

together thought and practice leaders we 

are making significant strides to improve 

GME for our region and beyond. 

The UWSOM has held a GME Summit 

Byron Joyner 

every other year for the last six years. We 

recently held the fourth summit, co-hosted 

by UWSOM and the Josiah Macy Foundation, in Spokane. Byron 

Joyner, M.D., MPA, Vice Dean for Graduate Medical Education and 

Designated Institution Official, presented “GME Reform: A History 

of Mandates & Moving Targets.” His session shared where medical 

education began in the U.S., and how the first standards set early in 

the 20th century still apply to medical education today. 

SETTING STANDARDS 

In 1910, Abraham Flexner, the father of standards in medical 

education – a triumvirate of research, teaching and patient care, 

noted that, “For medical education to flourish from one generation 

to the next, it has to reconfigure itself in response to changing 

scientific, social, and economic circumstances.” 

This could not be truer today, more than 100 years later. 

Despite this early vision of the need for medical education to 

progress, this has proven to be difficult as economics, technologies 

and demographics continue to change and evolve, and more 

rapidly today than ever before. 

PERENNIAL PROBLEMS 

Although some issues that date back to the beginning are still 

concerns: keeping up with advances in technology, transparency 

and accountability, and the geographic maldistribution of physicians, 

current external pressures for medical education reform include: 

• Changing public expectations 

• CMS payments being tied to outcomes 

• Changing from circumstantial to intentional practice in residency 

education by using six core competencies 

OIM REPORT 2014 

In 2014 an expert committee formed by the IOM released 

“Graduate Medical Education That Meets the Nation’s Health 

Needs” – a report that outlines proposed solutions to address 

current deficiencies in GME and better shape the physician 

workforce of the future. Recommendations from the report include: 

• Incentivize a better workforce 

• Build a GME policy to standardize hospital practices 

• Establish a GME Center within CMS to manage operational 

aspects of GME funding and collect and report on data to ensure 

transparency and more equal distribution of GME funds 

• Modernize Medicare GME payment methodology 

• Medicaid GME funding should be each state’s domain 

Going back to 1910 and Flexner’s prescient statement that 

medical education needs to keep up with change, the future 

of medical education, not solely GME, requires standardization 

to bring efficiency, quality and patient safety to our population. 

Individualization in the learning process, flexibility in rotations, 

integration in care teams, maintaining professional identity to lead 

the care teams, and promoting life-long inquiry to keep up with new 

technologies, methodologies and treatments are all important parts 

of continuous improvement in medical education. 

GOING FORWARD 

Dr. Joyner noted that, as we move forward, it is important to see 

that the various agencies, accrediting bodies and stakeholders are 

all interested in achieving the same outcome: quality, resourceconscious 

patient care, excellence in medical education and 

intentional practices that measure verifiable outcomes for the public. 

As we move forward with GME reforms, it’s important to note 

that the solutions need advocates: politicians and physicians, 

patients and nurses, medical students and residents all need 

to come together in support of the future of our individual and 

collective healthcare. n 

COYOTE ROCK 

Spokane River 

Tucked into the shoreline of the Spokane 

River, Coyote Rock offers waterfront living 

with five miles of boatable access. Water 

skiing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, swimming, 

and cycling on the Centennial Trail are just 

a few of the many recreational activities 

available at Coyote Rock. Coyote Rock is a 

master planned waterfront community that 

is nestled along the shores of the Spokane 

River. Beautifully situated just minutes east of 

downtown Spokane, this neighborhood offers 

a lifestyle that is unparalleled in the Spokane 

area. Relax! And enjoy Spokane’s Premier 

Waterfront Community! 

Welcome to Coyote Rock. 

Waterfront Lots Starting at $159,900 

Home Packages Starting at $549,000 

www.coyoterockwaterfront.com 

BILL FANNING BROKER 

ROCK CREEK RIDGE 

AT SUNUP BAY 

Coeur d’Alene Lake, Idaho 

Rock Creek Ridge at Sunup Bay stands apart 

on the shores of world famous Coeur d’Alene 

Lake in North Idaho. Located a short distance 

south of the City, this spectacular property is 

limited to 36 estate-size parcels, and the gated 

community offers a secluded and spacious 

living opportunity covering an impressive 250 

acres. Waterfront lots feature 2-6 acres with 

95’ to 350’ of lake frontage and a private boat 

dock. Ridge lots have generous 4-20 acres 

parcels including spectacular views of the lake. 

Features include a community beach with 

855’ lake frontage and a boat slip for each lot. 

Welcome to Coeur d’Alene Lake. 

Waterfront Lots Starting at $449,500 

Ridge Lots Starting at $149,000 

www.rockcreekridgeatsunupbay.com 

(509) 999-5444 fanning@21waterfront.com 

www.21Waterfront.com 


New Members and Membership Recognition 

Welcome, New Members 

PHYSICIANS: 

Andrew Coletti, MD 

Internal Medicine/Cardiovascular Disease/Interventional Cardiology 

Medical School: Albert Einstein (1994) 

Internal Medicine Internship & Residency: University of Michigan (1994-1998) 

Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship: University of Utah (1999-2002) 

Interventional Cardiology Fellowship: University of Utah (2002-2003) 

Joined Providence Spokane Cardiology 01/2016 

Ryan Goff, MD 

Diagnostic Radiology 

Medical School: Tulane University (2010) 

Transitional Internship: Riverside Regional Medical Center (2010-2011) 

Diagnostic Radiology Residency: Mayo Clinic (2011-2015) 

Neuroradiology Fellowship: Emory University (2015-2016) 

Joining Inland Imaging Associates, a Division of Integra Imaging, PS 07/2016 

Travis James, DO 

Dermatology 

Medical School: Des Moines University (2012) 

Transitional Internship: Largo Medical Center (2012-2013) 

Dermatology Residency: Mayo Clinic (2013-2016) 

Joining Advanced Dermatology & Skin Surgery 07/2016 

Andrea M. Prabhu, MD 

OB/GYN 

Medical School: University of Minnesota (2008) 

OB/GYN Internship & Residency: University of Washington (2008-2012) 

Joining Valley OB/GYN 09/2016 

thank you 

to the members listed here. Their contribution of time and talent 

has helped to make the Spokane County Medical Society the 

strong organization it is today. 

30 YEARS 

W. Ross Coble, MD 

05/15/1986 

Richard J. Lambert, MD 

05/15/1986 

20 YEARS 

Robert C. St. Clair, MD 

05/06/1996 

Charles W. Laudenbach, MD 

05/08/1996 

10 YEARS 

Michael E. Ring, MD 

05/15/2006 

Helen M. Schmidt, MD 

05/16/2006 

Matthew Weed, MD 

Ophthalmology 

Medical School: University of California, San Diego (2006-2010) 

Transitional Internship: Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center (2010-2011) 

Ophthalmology Residency: University of Iowa (2011-2014) 

Ophthalmic Genetics Fellowship: University of Iowa (2014-2015) 

Pediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus Fellowship: University of Iowa (2015-2016) 

Joining Spokane Eye Clinic 08/2016 

Engage Your Community 

The Inland Northwest Blood Center 

(INBC) has many volunteer opportunities 

available. By joining their dedicated team 

of volunteers, you can help maintain a safe 

and adequate blood supply for patients 

in our community. Not only do volunteers 

provide direct services to our blood donors, but they also play a 

critical role in a variety of INBC operations. 

Join a team who help to make a valuable difference for our 

community. Volunteer for any of the following: 

Canteen Service: The canteen provides refreshments to blood 

donors as a thank you for the precious gift of life they have just 

given. Volunteers serve the donors, answer questions, and watch 

for donor adverse reactions post donation. Canteen volunteers are 

needed at over 550 community blood drives held throughout the 

community as well as INBC locations in Spokane, Coeur d’Alene 

and Lewiston and weekly blood drives with area hospitals in Moses 

Lake, Spokane Valley, Moscow and Pullman. 

Courier Service: Couriers travel throughout the Inland Northwest 

to our mobile blood drives. Blood products are picked up from the 

blood drive and are brought back to the Spokane location. INBC 

provides all transportation vehicles for this service. 

Clerical Assistance: Many departments utilize volunteers to 

fulfill clerical needs. These include computer work, filing, and other 

projects, which provide valuable assistance to our staff. 

If you have any questions or would like more information about 

volunteering with INBC, please contact the Volunteer Services 

Coordinator, Tricia Cheevers, at (509) 951-1318 or (800) 423-0151, 

ext. 4125, or by email at volunteer@inbcsaves.org. n 

SCMS has a monthly column highlighting community engagement 

opportunities that you can support. If you have a special program you 

would like to bring awareness to, please email shelly@spcms.org. 


In Memoriam 

RICHARD E. AHLQUIST, JR., MD 

Richard E. Ahlquist, Jr., MD, passed away on March 30, 2016 

in Spokane. He was born on December 12, 1925, and attended 

Lakeside Preparatory School in Seattle, Washington. He graduated 

from Stanford University in 1948 after serving two years in the Air 

Force. He attended the University of Maryland Medical School 

graduating cum laude in 1952. His Internship and Residency 

training in General Thoracic and Vascular Surgery were received at 

University of California Medical Center in San Francisco where he 

served as Chief Resident in his final year. Following completion of 

his Residency in 1959, he and his wife moved to Spokane to start his 

surgical practice, which he maintained until his retirement in 1990. 

Dr. Ahlquist was a member of myriad professional medical 

associations, including the Washington State Medical Association, 

Spokane County Medical Society and the Spokane Surgical Society, 

where he served as president in 1976. He also served as a Fellow 

and Governor of the American College of Surgeons. He served as 

president of the North Pacific Surgical Association in 1988. 

Dr. Ahlquist is survived by the love of his life, Janis Roberts 

Ahlquist. They met while he was attending University of Maryland 

Medical School in Baltimore, and were married in Sewanee, 

Tennessee, on June 30, 1950. He is also survived by three children, 

four grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. The Ahlquist 

family wishes to thank Senior Helpers and Hospice of Spokane for 

their care for and kindness to Dr. Ahlquist. 

STEPHEN R. SEARS, MD 

Stephen R. Sears, MD, passed away peacefully 

on April 18, 2016, while in the loving presence of his 

devoted wife. At four years old, he decided to go 

to West Point and steadily followed through on this 

goal after graduating from Annandale High School 

in 1963. After graduating from West Point in 1967, he 

continued to medical school at University of Virginia 

and was an orthopedic surgeon in the U.S. Army, obtaining the rank 

of Colonel and eventually moving into private practice. Steve married 

the love of his life, Marilyn, on March 3, 1977. 

Dr. Sears is survived by his wife, Marilyn, his daughter and two 

vivacious granddaughters, and his sister and brother. He was a 

complicated man in all the best ways and never bored his friends 

and family with predictability. He loved old westerns, roosters, 

wall pictures, clocks, cherry pie filling and his green mini cooper. 

He loved learning about world history, especially the Civil War. It 

was important to him to never look down on others, and also to 

be a good husband, father, son, brother and friend. Those who 

knew him will miss his one of a kind smile, lopsided walk, and 

most importantly, the most unconditional, non-judgmental love and 

support he freely gave to those he loved. He was and, even in his 

absence, will continue to be a great hero to his daughter. At the 

end, he fought bravely for each day. 

Dr. Sears is preceded in death by his mother and father, and often 

spoke of how much he missed them. He worked very hard all his life, 

up until the very end, and made a difference in the lives of many. n 


SCMS 1st Wednesday Member Mixer 

Spokane County Medical Society’s 1st Wednesday Member 

Mixer was held on April 6, 2016, at Marketplace Wineries. Guests 

enjoyed appetizers and drinks, as well as great conversation with 

colleagues in a relaxed atmosphere. A great time was had by all! 

A special thanks to our sponsor for the evening! 


In The News 

INLAND IMAGING IS PLEASED TO WELCOME 

JOSHUA GARCIA, MD, TO OUR PROFESSIONAL 

SUBSPECIALIST RADIOLOGY TEAM 

Dr. Joshua Garcia comes to Inland 

Imaging from the University of Arizona 

in Tucson where he completed 

fellowship training in neuroradiology. 

He is board certified in Diagnostic 

Radiology. Prior to joining Inland 

Imaging, Dr. Garcia was employed by 

Radiology Associates of Hays located in 

Hays, Kansas. 

A native of California, Dr. Garcia is 

married and has two children. He enjoys 

spending time with his family, working 

out, traveling, and participating in 

outdoor activities. He speaks, reads and writes in English, Spanish 

and Russian. He has participated in research and service projects in 

Namibia and Uganda. 

JAMES NANIA, MD, FACEP, RECEIVES WA-ACEP 

2016 NANCY AUER MERITORIOUS AWARD 

Dr. Nania received the Nancy Auer 

Meritorious Award on April 28, 2016, 

during the WA-ACEP Summit to Sound 

meeting. The award recognizes 

individuals who have gone above 

and beyond the norm in emergency 

medicine to improve the quality of 

patient care and support the efforts of 

the chapter. 

Upon completing his residency, Dr. 

Nania took his first job at Deaconess 

Medical Center in Spokane, hoping to 

blend a career with adventures in the 

mountains and on the lakes. He remained in practice at Deaconess 

for 30 years and served as Medical Director of the ED for the last 

25. During his tenure, Deaconess opened a Level II Trauma Center, 

established an emergency hyperbaric program, implemented 

a Rapid Diagnostic and Treatment Unit, and developed the first 

“Virtual Bed,” a telemedicine link to rural hospitals. 

From the beginning of his practice in Spokane, Dr. Nania was 

involved with EMS and became Medical Program Director for 

Spokane County EMS, as well as Medical Director for the critical 

care air transport program. He has served in these positions for 

more than 30 years and his active involvement, including regular 

“ride-alongs,” has provided a full time EMS practice for the last five 

years. Today he is known to many as “Dr. Jimmy” from the EMS 

educational program “EMS Live@Nite” which is broadcast monthly 

to six states. 

Dr. Nania worked with the Department of Health to establish a 

State Trauma System and, more recently, State Cardiac and Stroke 

Systems. “I believe that the best and most challenging area of 

medicine is Emergency Medicine,” said Dr. Nania. “I admire the men 

and women of our chosen specialty and I know their careers are 

measured in lives saved and disability prevented.” 

HENRY MROCH, MD, AWARDED 2016 SPOKANE 

WWAMI TRACK TEACHER OF THE YEAR 

Henry Mroch, MD, was awarded the 

2016 Spokane WWAMI Track Teacher 

of the Year at the latest installment of 

the University of Washington School 

of Medicine – Spokane’s Medical 

Education Seminar Series. Over 80 

physicians had gathered to learn how 

to be better clinical educators, the 

conference, however, was interrupted 

to recognize Dr. Mroch as students 

presented Dr. Mroch with this honor. 

Dr. Mroch attended the University of 

California Irvine for Medical School, and 

then did his Internal Medicine residency at Sacred Heart Medical 

Center in Spokane. After completing a fellowship in Nephrology 

at the University of Washington in Seattle, Dr. Mroch returned to 

practice in Spokane and is currently practicing with the Providence 

Medical Group. Since returning to Spokane, Dr. Mroch has been 

actively engaged in medical student and resident education. 

There is no doubt that Dr. Mroch is deserving of this award. The 

students who nominated and voted for Dr. Mroch stated: 

“He constantly went above and beyond to ensure I got the most 

out of my rotation. He gave me every opportunity to be as involved 

as possible with patient care and I came away from the rotation 

with many tangible new skills. He often stayed late to ensure I 

got beneficial educational experiences. On top of that, he was 

extremely kind to everyone he worked with and showed a high level 

of respect to staff and patients.” 

“He is an outstanding physician teacher and mentor to his 

students. He goes out of his way to make the rotation the best 

experience possible for the student, including ample one-on-one 

teaching time about key concepts of nephrology. His friendly 

kindness and compassion exudes constantly, from patients to staff, 

fellow colleagues, residents, students, and literally every person 

he comes in contact with. His enthusiasm is a joy to work with, and 

his high regard for students allows us to experience and perform a 

multitude of procedures, all under his careful and patient guidance.” 

“He embodies everything a student could want in a teacher. He 

brings a joy of medicine with him that is almost infectious. He is kind, 

patient, and possesses an eagerness to teach in any way he can. 

He has an incredibly deep knowledge of medicine, but carries this 

knowledge with great humility. He is a physician whom I would readily 

trust my family and friends with, and someday hope to emulate.” 

Congratulations to Dr. Mroch! He has clearly raised the bar for 

those involved in clinical medical education as we too would like to 

emulate these qualities. 

Students from the UWSOM who spend their M3 and/or M4 year 

in Spokane nominate and vote for one of MD preceptor who has 

served as a role model or has inspired the students along their 

journey to become an MD. Previous awardees have included 

Matthew Hollon, Chris Vernon, Bob Maixner and Judy Swanson. n 


Your Emergency Cash Reserve 

By Greer Gibson Bacon, CFP® 

LAYING THE FOUNDATION 

FOR YOUR RISK MANAGEMENT PLAN 

Everyone needs an emergency cash reserve. The reason is 

simple. It helps protect your financial plan from the major and 

unexpected events that would create a serious hardship for you 

or your family. For example, a family breadwinner might lose her 

employment, experience a lengthy disability from accident or 

illness, or die. An emergency cash reserve helps you or your family 

manage the financial consequence. Minor or expected events 

should be managed as a line item in your annual spending plan. 

HOW MUCH SHOULD YOU KEEP 

IN AN EMERGENCY CASH RESERVE? 

Most financial planners agree your emergency cash reserve 

should equal your living expenses for three-to-six months. So, if 

your living expenses are $100,000 per year, it should be $30,000 to 

$60,000. That said; your financial circumstance and risk tolerance 

should drive where your emergency cash reserve falls in this range. 

Consider these examples. 

A commissioned salesperson with few assets and unpredictable 

income may keep a 6-month reserve and a retiree with many assets 

and predictable income may keep a 3-month reserve. By contrast, 

a retiree with a conservative temperament may feel a 3-month 

reserve is too risky and a commissioned salesperson with an 

aggressive temperament may feel a 6-month reserve has too high 

an opportunity cost. 

Whatever you do, be honest in your assessment. Failing to 

maintain an adequate cash reserve can (and often does) make 

a bad situation worse. For example, if you become disabled and 

borrow money for living expenses until disability income benefits 

begin, how will you repay it? Especially since your disability 

income benefits are not likely to replace 100% of your pre-disability 

earnings. In my many years of professional practice, I have never 

seen a true emergency situation improved by borrowing. 

WHERE SHOULD YOU KEEP 

YOUR EMERGENCY CASH RESERVE? 

Your emergency cash reserve should be kept in a safe and 

liquid account. This means you can access it immediately with no 

penalty or loss of principal. Also, it means earnings are a secondary 

consideration. Good choices are bank savings and money market 

deposit accounts (FDIC-insured), and money market mutual funds 

(not FDIC-insured). Each choice has its unique pros and cons. 

Generally speaking, your emergency cash reserve should be kept 

separate from your checking account so it is not accidentally spent. 

WHEN ALL IS SAID AND DONE … 

Your emergency cash reserve lays the foundation for your 

personal risk management plan. It should be carefully coordinated 

with your various insurance coverages, like your major medical, 

disability income and life insurance depending on your and your 

family’s needs. Finally, if you are forced to dip into your emergency 

cash reserve, make it a top priority to replenish it. n 

Bacon is a Certified Financial Planner and President of Asset Planning 

& Management, Inc. A fee-only firm, it provides comprehensive wealth 

management services for individuals, their families and professional practices. 

I thought I would 

be just another 

name and number. 

But Physicians Insurance has 

a heart to it. They have been 

supportive in ways that I 

never would have imagined. 

J. Hamilton Licht, MD, Nephrologist 

Nephrology Associates of Yakima 

Yakima, Washington 

Real People. 

A Real Foundation. 

www.phyins.com 

phyi-new-concept-ideas-licht-7.5x4.75-2.indd 1 

14 | Spokane County Medical Society 

1/7/16 1:38 PM

A Provider’s Role in Curbing Cravings 

‘I will prevent disease whenever I can, for prevention is preferable 

to cure.’ Used in many medical schools today, many providers 

subscribe to this core tenet of practicing medicine. And the 

commonly-acknowledged, low-hanging fruit in terms of prevention? 

Quitting smoking. 

Patients who stop smoking greatly reduce their risk for disease 

and early death. Indeed, quitting smoking is the best thing a person 

can do for their health [1]. But, also well known among providers and 

patients alike—quitting smoking isn’t easy. 

There is hope, though. When working with a patient who is 

trying to quit smoking, providers can use the 5 A’s: Ask, Advise, 

Assess, Assist, and Arrange. Having cessation resources on hand is 

paramount to the ‘Assist’ and ‘Arrange’ steps. Providers can rely on 

Spokane Regional Health District’s (SRHD’s) resource for tobacco 

cessation that can be found at srhd.org/topics/cessation.asp 

Next hurdle? What should a provider do after counseling a patient 

and providing resources, but the patient is struggling in their plan 

to quit? Providers can help by coaching patients through cravings, 

using proven strategies to help see them through need. Patients 

can benefit from many of the tips offered by smokefree.gov and 

providers can be the conduit. 

Specific to cravings, as a provider trying to help, the first step is 

to identify a patient’s triggers for lighting up. Common triggers are 

feeling stressed or down, talking on the phone, drinking alcohol, 

having sex, or seeing someone else smoke. Once a patient knows 

their triggers, they can work to avoid these types of situations. 

When avoiding a trigger isn’t possible, or when a craving is already 

present, patients can try these techniques to avoid lighting up: 

• Call someone who can help you. Calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW will 

connect a patient with someone who can help counsel them 

through their quit attempt. Patients should also be encouraged 

to contact a friend or someone they trust who can support and 

encourage them. 

• Wait 15 minutes – a typical craving lasts between 5-10 minutes. 

• Take a walk or get some exercise - physical activity can help boost 

energy and overcome cravings. 

• Review their personalized quit plan and the reason they are 

quitting tobacco. 

• Go to a smoke-free area where people are not allowed to smoke. 

• Calculate financial savings from quitting and decide what to buy 

with the savings. 

• Chew gum or eat a hard candy. 

• Drink water. 

• Do something else entirely – when a craving comes on, change 

what you are doing altogether. 

• Take deep breaths and try to relax. 

Providers should remind their patients that quitting can take 

practice. If they smoke during a craving, they shouldn’t give up on 

their quit plan. Encourage patients to immediately get back to their 

quit plan until they can quit for good. 

If you have questions about how 

SRHD is working to decrease tobacco 

use, contact the Tobacco, Vaping Device 

and Marijuana Prevention coordinator 

by email at pmcgowan@srhd.org or call 

(509) 324-1504. n 

References: 

[1] www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/quit-smoking/in-depth/quit-smoking/art-20045452 


Making Full Use of Your SCMS Membership 

Create Your Membership Experience! 

Professional associations are a huge resource to the individuals who 

belong to them, and are most valuable when you take full advantage 

of the membership benefits offered. That said, how can you make sure 

you’re getting the most out of your SCMS membership? 

• Show up. SCMS events foster collegiality and provide you 

the opportunity to network with your peers. It’s a great way to 

expand your network, learn more about your industry within your 

community, and even make your next job search easier. Make it a 

priority to know when events are happening and attend 

whenever possible. 

– Monthly 1st Wednesday Member Mixer; Annual summer cruise 

in July; GMM each January. 

• Get engaged. Succeed in your personal development and add your 

voice by becoming involved on one of our committees or task 

forces, including advocacy opportunities ensuring responsible 

public health policy and a united voice on the issues that matter to 

you. When you engage as a member of SCMS, your voice is amplified 

hundreds of times over. Participating allows you to develop stronger 

relationships with colleagues and organizations within the 

community, resulting in recommendations and opportunities to 

partner. SCMS can open you up to an increased range of leadership 

opportunities that you might otherwise miss out on. 

• Utilize the SCMS website and your unique profile page. Our 

newly constructed website now provides all practicing, active 

members with a unique profile page that’s keyword searchable by 

colleagues and the public, and is a valuable resource for referrals. 

Keeping your profile page current will lead others to you and 

your services. 

• Use the Physician Wellness Program. Staffed by a professional 

in behavioral health for medical professionals, the program is 

anonymous, confidential, easily accessible and free to SCMS 

members for the first 8 sessions. 

• Contribute to the SCMS newsmagazine. Write and submit an 

article for inclusion in The Message, agree to an interview for a 

feature article, or point us toward information you feel is pertinent 

to your colleagues. You can also advertise an opening in your 

office, now worldwide on our website. 

The need for an active county medical society has 

never been greater as we strive to carry a united voice 

on relevant healthcare issues in this region. 

When you show up, engage, and utilize the opportunities available 

to you as a SCMS member, you will no longer be left scratching your 

head wondering what you’re getting out of the experience. Your 

network will grow, your name will become more widely recognized 

among colleagues, and opportunities will open up where you never 

even knew they could. And the best part is – you can accomplish all 

this while supporting an organization that is focused on our members, 

the medical profession and our community. It’s one of those rare 

instances where everybody benefits! 

Clinic Medical Director 

Family Medicine Physician with Obstetrics 

With three clinics in beautiful Spokane, Washington, Unify 

Community Health has grown. We are currently recruiting 

for a Family Medicine physician to lead our dedicated, 

mission-driven providers. This is a unique opportunity for 

a Medical Director who will have the ability to also care 

for their own panel of patients. 

A few of our benefits include: 

• Market-competitive compensation 

• Generous benefits package 

• 1 in 4 call 

• Hiring bonus and relocation package 

• EMR: Epic 

Unify Community Health 

providerjobs@yvfwc.org | 1-877-983-9247 | www.yvfwc.org 



REAL ESTATE 

LIBERTY LAKE GATED, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath manufactured home 

with attached 24’ x 60’ shop with lean-to on 10 acres MOL, wood 

stove, mud room, in line water, grid interactive solar with battery 

backup and wind turbine included, propane in, utilities in to North 

building pad with Saltese Flats, Liberty Lake Conservation and Mica 

views. Surveyed and fenced, large animals allowed. Possible free 

electric and DOR production renewable energy credits. Possible 

equestrian/bike/hiking/hunting fenced private Mica Conservation 

area access. Creek frontage. Buyer to assume Farm/ag tax 

classification (possible lease back). Priced at $299,900. MLS: 

201612516/201612517. Contact Noland at (509) 220-7512, noland@ 

peterdy.com. 23215 E. Henry Road. Possible owner financing. Seller 

is the Designated Broker. Possible off grid, great for preppers. 

____________________________________________________ 

FOUR ADJACENT 10 ACRE NINE MILE FARM/RANCH/RETREAT/ 

DEVELOPMENT/LOTS for sale. Corner parcel. Bus route. Three 

phase power. 2 wells with pumps, water lines, hydrants and primary/ 

secondary electric in and on, possible green solar container/ 

reservoir available. Possible free electric and DOR renewable 

energy production credits. Fenced/cross fenced. Large animals 

allowed. 4 ten acre parcels, each with a certificate of exemption. 

Great hunting. Adjacent to DNR access. Great views. Possible 

owner financing. Just minutes from Airway Heights. Surveyed. Area 

of nicer newer homes. Buyer to assume Designated forest tax 

classification. Priced at $75,000 each. MLS: 201611236,201611652. 

Contact Noland at (509) 220-7512, noland@peterdy.com. 11211 N. 

Dover/17514 W. Burnett. Seller is the Designated Broker. Possible off 

grid, great for preppers. 

____________________________________________________ 

LAKE FRONT CONDO FOR RENT with desired southern exposure 

on Pend Oreille Lake. 3 levels; sleeps 8. 2 bathrooms, fully 

furnished. Boat slip and garage included. Sandy beach. Multiple 

decks, close to Sandpoint. Rent by the month or for the summer. 

$4,500 per month. Call (509) 993-8547. 

____________________________________________________ 

MEDICAL OFFICES/BUILDINGS 

NORTH SPOKANE PROFESSIONAL BUILDING has several 

medical office suites for lease. This 60,000 sq. ft. professional 

medical office building is located at 5901 N. Lidgerwood directly 

north of Holy Family Hospital at the NWC of Lidgerwood and Central 

Avenues. The building has various medical office spaces available 

for lease from 635 to 10,800 contiguous usable sq. ft. and has 

undergone extensive remodeling, including two new elevators, 

lighted pylon sign, refurbished lobbies, corridors and stairways. 

Other tenants in the building include urgent care, family practice, 

pediatrics, dermatology, dentistry, pathology and pharmacy. Floor 

plans and marketing materials emailed upon request. A Tenant 

Improvement Allowance is available, subject to terms of lease. 

Contact Patrick O’Rourke, CCIM, CPM® with O’Rourke Realty, Inc. at 

(509) 624-6522, mobile (509) 999-2720 or psrourke@comcast.net 

____________________________________________________ 



MEETINGS/CONFERENCES/EVENTS 

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. 

____________________________________________________ 

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS AND ALATEEN REFERRALS: Al-Anon 

and Alateen support groups are available in Spokane County for 

family members and friends of alcoholics at which men and women 

share experiences of solving common problems arising from living 

with or loving a problem drinker. Alateen meetings are for teenage 

family members and friends of alcoholics and are not suitable for 

teens with current drinking problems. For further information and 

meeting schedules contact District2AlAnonOutreach@yahoo.com 

or (509) 456-2125. Al-Anon and Alateen support groups can 

supplement medical treatment and counseling therapy. Information 

provided by Al-Anon District 2 Public Outreach Committee. 

____________________________________________________ 

SPOKANE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY PRESENTS MEDICINE 

2016: The program will focus on the more challenging management 

issues that clinicians encounter. The conference will be held on 

Friday, October 7, 2016, at the Red Lion Hotel at the Park. For more 

information, contact Karen Hagensen (509) 325-5010 or 

karen@spcms.org. 

____________________________________________________ 

MEDICINAL CANNABIS AND CHRONIC PAIN PROJECT- A 

SCIENCE-BASED ONLINE TRAINING FOR CLINICIANS IN TIMES 

OF LEGALIZATION. CME Webinar Expires December 31, 2016. 

Legalization has brought increased public attention to cannabis and 

its medicinal properties. This training provides you with up-to-date 

information on the use of medicinal cannabis for the treatment 

of chronic pain in two online modules. The first is a basic primer 

on the mechanism of action of medicinal cannabis, its medical 

uses, and Washington State law. The second focuses on the best 

clinical practices associated with the recommendation of medicinal 

cannabis. This training provides useful tools for healthcare providers 

in their discussion with patients about the use of medicinal cannabis 

in the treatment of chronic pain. Up to 2.0 AMA PRA Category 

1 Credits are available upon completion. Click here for more 

information and to begin the training: adai.uw.edu/mcacp. 

____________________________________________________ 

POSITIONS AVAILABLE 

ESTABLISHED SPOKANE CLINICAL RESEARCH COMPANY is 

seeking primary care and specialty physicians interested in serving as 

Principle Investigators or as Sub-Investigators. There is an opportunity 

to assume an on-going research portfolio and to join new studies that 

are opening in the winter of 2015-16. For more information, contact 

Dalyn Boehm or Greg Jared at Premier Clinical Research at 

(509) 343-3710 or research@premierclinicalresearch.com. 

____________________________________________________ 

Extraordinary Care in a 

Private & Safe Environment. 

Rockwood South Hill provides knowledgeable therapeutic 

care for people with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. 

Families can feel confident turning to Rockwood to provide 

needed care for their loved ones in an environment where 

they can thrive. 

Memory 

Care Services 

Rare Opportunity! 

Move-in ready apartments. 

Memory Care Features: 

• Licensed nurses on-duty 24-hours a day 

• Beautiful secure outdoor courtyard 

• Studio apartments with private bathrooms 

• Daily structured activities, scheduled scenic drives 

& outings 

• Transportation to doctor appointments 

• Fresh prepared nutritious meals 

• On-site healthcare and therapy services 

For a private consultation or tour, contact our 

Transitional Care Consultant at 509-344-6912 

email: careinfo@rockwoodretirement.org 

www.rockwoodretirement.org 


MANN-GRANDSTAFF VA MEDICAL CENTER in Spokane has 

immediate opportunities for Psychiatrists, Emergency Medicine, 

Gastroenterologists, Neurologist, Pulmonologist, part-time 

Gynecologist, Oncologist/Hematologist, Infectious Disease, General 

Surgeon, Chief of Surgery and a Director of the Emergency 

Department. Recruitment incentives may be available. Please 

contact Jim Erickson at (509) 434-7211 (James.Erickson@va.gov) or 

Robyn Highbarger (509) 434-7393 (Robyn.Highbarger@va.gov) for 

specific information about positions. 

____________________________________________________ 

JOIN OUR TEAM AS AN ARNP OR PA-C! Christ Clinic is a seeking 

an ARNP or PA-C to serve as an anchor provider for 3.5 days/ 

week (35 hours). Candidates must have current WA state license, 

experience in primary care and ability to work with electronic 

medical records. For more information or to apply send your cover 

letter and resume to bridget@christclinic.org. As a member of our 

team at Christ Clinic you will help heal the body and soul 

of Spokane. 

____________________________________________________ 

WE ARE SEEKING AN EXPERIENCED CERTIFIED PHYSICIAN 

ASSISTANT, male or female, to join our team in a busy small, 

independent family practice in North Spokane. Beautiful office, 

super location, great patients! Contact lon_madsen@hotmail.com. 

____________________________________________________ 

PALOUSE MEDICAL Do you know someone who is looking for 

a change or would be interested in relocating to the Moscow- 

Pullman area? If so, please help us spread the word about 

some amazing employment opportunities available in Pullman, 

Washington. As a privately owned, multi-specialty clinic, Palouse 

Medical is a busy physician office located in beautiful Pullman, 

Washington. Our practice has immediate openings for the 

following positions: Internal Medicine Physician Primary Care & 

Join Our Hospitalist Team; Family Medicine Physician with OB 

Primary Care & Join Our OB Care/Delivery Team; ReadyCare 

Healthcare Provider Mid-level or Physician to join our minor care, 

walk-in clinic team. 

Don’t delay, contact us TODAY! We would love an opportunity 

to personally provide you with more details and answer your 

questions. Contact Theresa Kwate, Administrator of Palouse 

Medical, directly at (509) 334-8400 or email at tkwate@ 

palousemedical.com. Visit our website for more information: 

www.palousemedical.com/contact-us/employment 

____________________________________________________ 

PART-TIME NP NEEDED Busy specialty office needing part-time 

Nurse Practitioner. Musculoskeletal experience preferred but not 

required. Training / education provided. Must have active WA 

license. Position starts at 3 days per week and will increase as office 

expands. Please email your CV to nwsprecruiting@yahoo.com. 

____________________________________________________ 

CLINICAL DIRECTOR Are you ready to put your license and 

education to work? Eastern State Hospital in Medical Lake, WA 

is seeking an experienced, diverse Geropsychiatric Unit Clinical 

Director to join our medical staff. Benefits include: Major medical, 

dental, and vision insurance, retirement, 11 paid holidays, vacation, 

and sick leave. If interested, apply online at www.careers.wa.gov; 

type 06029 in the Keywords box. 

____________________________________________________ 

PREDIABETES and 

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT 

SYMPOSIUM 

Friday May 20, 2016 

8:15am – 4pm 

Lincoln Center | 1316 N Lincoln Street 

Group discussions in the morning 

cover important topics such as diabetes 

prevention, cultivating public awareness, 

barriers for screening and monitoring, 

and evidence based treatment options. 

Breakout sessions in the afternoon 

will cover the topics of prevention, 

pathophysiology, complications, 

and medication; presented by a 

great lineup of speakers, including 

Katherine Tuttle, MD; Kaushik Chatterjee, MD; 

Lisa Woodard, PharmD; Carol Wysham, MD; 

and Heather Readhead, MD. 

Lunch 

served 

— 

CME 

6 credits 

For more information 

call 509.232.8138 

To register, visit: 

https://courseregistration.inhs.org/ 

This Live activity, Pre-Diabetes and Weight Management Symposium, 

with a beginning date of 5/20/2016, has been reviewed and is 

acceptable for up to 6.00 Prescribed credit(s) by the American 

Academy of Family Physicians. Physicians should claim only the credit 

commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. 



PROVIDER POSITIONS AVAILABLE! Physician, Primary Care – 

Maple Street Clinic; Physician, Primary Care – Perry Street Clinic; 

Physician, Urgent Care – Spokane Urgent Care – Valley; Physician 

Assistant or ARNP, Pediatrics – North County Clinic; Physician 

Assistant or ARNP, Urgent Care – Spokane Urgent Care – North; 

Locum Provider, Urgent Care. With 12 clinics throughout the 

Inland Northwest and more on the way, CHAS serves a critical 

need in the community by providing comprehensive medical, 

dental, behavioral health and pharmacy care to residents of all 

ages regardless of insurance status. If you are looking to make a 

difference in the lives of people in your community, CHAS is the 

employer of choice! Please visit www.chas.org/careers to learn 

more about CHAS or contact Workforce Development at 

(509) 444-8888 or work@chas.org. 

____________________________________________________ 

OPPORTUNITIES IN CHENEY! CHAS is seeking Physicians, 

Physician Assistants and Nurse Practitioners to join our newest 

location, Cheney Health Center! Offering medical, pharmacy 

(coming spring 2016) and behavioral health services, Cheney 

Health Center is providing comprehensive care to residents of all 

ages regardless of insurance status. If you are looking to make a 

difference in the lives of people in your community, CHAS is the 

employer of choice! Please visit www.chas.org/careers to learn 

more about CHAS or contact Workforce Development at 

(509) 444-8888 or work@chas.org. 

____________________________________________________ 

PSYCHIATRISTS Providence Medical Group is seeking several 

excellent Psychiatrists to join our team in eastern Washington. 

Flexible full-time practice opportunities where you can choose 

to do inpatient only, faculty only (Psychiatry Residency program), 

or inpatient/faculty split. Schedule will be 7 days on / 7 days 

off, with 12 hour “on” days. Whichever opportunity you choose, 

the positions offer an exceptional compensation and benefits 

package, and great quality of life in scenic Spokane. To apply, 

contact Jackie Sill; Jacqueline.Sill@providence.org; 

(509) 474-2076. 

____________________________________________________ 

PRACTICE FOR SALE Spokane Valley, WA. AAAASF Certified 

Facility. If interested contact Celeste Winterroth at 

cwinterroth@inwhealth.net. 

____________________________________________________ 

Interested in placing a classified ad? 

Contact Shelly Bonforti, SCMS Publications 

Phone: (509) 325-5010, Fax (509) 325-5409 

or Email: shelly@spcms.org 


SCMS Foundation 

Wellness Program 

It’s okay to ask for help! 

We want to make that ask 

as easy as possible. 

• No such thing as a too small problem, professional or personal. 

• Anonymous. 

• Care and counseling provided by an independent professional, 

focused on medical professionals. 

• First 8 sessions free to SCMS members (available at contracted 

rate to non-members). 

• 24/7 anonymous phone referral through third party service. 

Appointments set within 24 hours of request, including before 

or after office hours. 

• Private setting in an independent provider’s office or if 

preferred in a dedicated, private entrance, soundproofed room 

within the Spokane County Medical Society offices. 

• No information disclosed to others by provider without the 

physician's written consent (imminent risk of danger to self or 

others excepted, or where otherwise restricted by law). 

• No role in disciplinary or fitness-for-duty evaluations. 

• Coordinated referrals to other programs and agencies as 

applicable, indicated or desired. 

Call our 24-hour 

dedicated hotline at 

(509) 720-6000 

staffed by a professional 

in behavioral health 

for medical professionals. 

To make a tax deductible donation to support this 

program, contact Karen Hagensen at 

(509) 325-5010 or karen@spcms.org, 

or mail to: 

Spokane County Medical Society Foundation 

Attn: Wellness Program 

901 E. 2nd Ave., Ste. 301 

Spokane, WA 99202-2257 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES INCLUDE: WELLNESS • EDUCATION & TRAINING • BUSINESS • LITIGATION

SPOKANE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY 

901 E. 2ND AVE., STE. 301 

SPOKANE, WA 99202 

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED 

Please Recycle 

50+ 

Pathologists 

26 

Subspecialties 

CELLNETIX - SPOKANE 

Local Relationships, Central Support 

With personalized medicine leading the way for better diagnosis and treatment 

planning, physicians are requiring more sophisticated diagnostic tools and 

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requirements with unparalleled efficiency and with the local presence the 

Spokane medical community demands. 

• The only on-site laboratory-owned FNA clinic 

• Proprietary tracking systems for security of specimens 

• Broad informatics programs 

866-236-8296 • www.cellnetix.com/spokane/home • /cellnetixspo

Valerie Jones MD

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