Columbia Gorge Family Medicine (CGFM) celebrates its 40th anniversary as an independent, doctor-owned practice in Hood River, Oregon. Founded by Dr. Paul Sanders in a modest home on June Street, the practice evolved over the years, moving to a small office on Pine Street before settling into its current facility at 1750 12th Street in 2018.
Commitment to Community and Patient Care
The CGFM emphasizes its independence on its website, stating “Independent. Locally Owned.” This principle significantly influences their approach to patient care. Dr. Sanders highlights that many medical practices today are under corporate ownership, which can prioritize profit over patient care. In contrast, CGFM is owned by its practicing doctors: Dr. Tony Gay, Dr. Matthew Sperry, Dr. Jessica Porter, Dr. Tyler Gray, and Dr. Peter Benziger.
Only 35% of doctors’ offices are owned by their practitioners, with most being solo practices. This scarcity of independent practices means that CGFM stands out in its commitment to prioritize patient relationships over corporate pressures. Lindsey Kuipers, the Executive Director, noted that the physicians at CGFM focus solely on their patients, enabling them to foster long-lasting care for families.
A Unique Model for Healthcare Delivery
The independent ownership model allows CGFM to adapt its services based on its mission of inclusivity and access to quality healthcare. The doctors meet regularly to discuss medical innovations and collaborate on solutions that benefit their patients. Dr. Gay, who has been with CGFM for 35 years, stated, “When you’re in a small practice where the doctors run the show, your priorities are doing what’s best for medical care and for your community.”
While financial stewardship is necessary to maintain operations, the primary goal remains focused on patient care. CGFM’s doctors provide comprehensive services from pediatrics to geriatrics, including delivering babies, and they adjust their hours and fees to meet the needs of Hood River County residents.
“We want to be part of a community that makes people’s lives better,” Dr. Gay emphasized. The practice aims to create a “Patient-Centered Primary Care Home,” nurturing long-term relationships between doctors and patients. This model not only enhances patient care but also fosters a sense of belonging within the community.
As CGFM celebrates this milestone, its commitment to providing personalized, lifelong care continues to distinguish it from corporate-owned competitors, ensuring that patient welfare remains at the forefront of their mission.
