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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link=blue vlink=purple><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>There appears to be a general consensus (both off and on V2020) that Moscow Family Medicine is not the friendly, patient oriented practice it was historically. I think all of us old timers can agree that the management philosophy is distinctly at odds with the service oriented care that helped to build Moscow Family Medicine in the first place. This phenomenon is not unique to Moscow Family Medicine. Frequently, when original founders move on, retire, or limit their practice their goals and practice principles are replaced by incoming practitioners and managers who don’t share the initial business/provider perspectives. This may be a partial cause of their fall from grace. There are many other reasons, of course.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>There is a simple solution to the plethora of unmet needs associated with Moscow Family Medicine. Gritman Hospital has three outpatient clinics in the county. My immediate and extended family goes to the Troy Clinic. We are pleased beyond words with the very fine medical care and pleasant, respectful attention given to patients. Gritman is not only providing a long needed asset to rural areas they have gained valuable experience in running medical clinics that are geared to meeting patient needs in a timely, professional manner. We have <u>never</u> encountered that “Dr. Humteyhump doesn’t have an opening for three weeks go to Quick Care” baloney. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>I think it would be a worthwhile discussion if Gritman Board members (I hope there are some 2020 readers who either know or are board members and could pass this along) were to address the lack of competition in Moscow for folks whose needs are best met by Family Practice physicians. Gritman has the expertise, interest, and commitment to offer a successful family practice alternative that is patient oriented, cost effective, and community oriented. (Need I mention that the sooner alternatives could be offered the better the community would be served? And, while the Clinic conversation is on the table, could it also include the hiring of Nurse Midwives to put a halt to the do-it-yourself-granny-fanny-herb-and-root midwives lurking on the Palouse?)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> Although I don’t have a dog in the fight, I am curious, is it management or physicians/owners at Moscow Family Medicine that currently set the tone of the practice? Somebody is doing a piss poor job running the joint that much is clear. On the other hand, since patients are voting with their feet it may be a moot question. Competition is the best prescription and there are absolutely no counter-indications or untoward side effects. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Rose Huskey<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div></body></html>