Samaritan Healthcare | The Samaritan | Spring 2019

SPRING 2019 | 5 cians and Providers! Nicole Avila-Parker, PMHNP-BC Behavioral Health Services Nicole Avila-Parker, PMHNP-BC, has joined our Behavioral Health Services team. As a board-certified, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she brings years of experience in mental and behavioral healthcare. Avila-Parker grew up near Moses Lake and she has cared for patients locally for many years. She earned her master of science in nursing with concentration in psychiatric mental health from Gonzaga University and her bachelor of science in nursing from Washington State University. Samaritan’s Behavioral Health Services team focuses on a holistic approach that bridges physical, mental, and behavioral health needs to care for the whole person. Avila-Parker works closely with others in Behavioral Health Services—Teresa Hutsell, ARNP, PMHNP-BC, and Robert Muehlberger, LMHC, plus Family Medicine physicians and providers. Having a strong connection between Behavioral Health Services and Family Medicine allows patients to receive comprehensive, holistic treatment that cares for the “whole person.” “If you or a friend or loved one is struggling, you’re not alone—we’re here to help,” said Avila-Parker. “Working together with Family Medicine allows us to coordinate treatments and care plans to better assist patients with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.” Brett DeGooyer, DO Sports Medicine/Orthopaedics We welcome Dr. Brett DeGooyer, doctor of osteopathic medicine and sports medicine physician, to our Orthopaedic department— joining Dr. Leo Chough, Chris Stone, and the Orthopaedic and Family Medicine care teams. Dr. DeGooyer was fellowship trained in sports medicine and he has a wide range of professional experience with active people of all ages. A patient doesn’t need to be an “athlete” to benefit from sports medicine. Whether an injury or medical issue occurs during sports or recreation, in the workplace, or at home, Dr. DeGooyer can help patients in all areas of life—including farmworkers, laborers, or tradesmen. He provides physical conditioning, and diagnoses and treats injuries, and much more. Dr. DeGooyer earned his doctor of osteopathic medicine through A.T. Still University of Health Sciences-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM), in Missouri. He performed a dual-integrated residency in Family Medicine and Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine through Northeast Regional Medical Center and ATSU-KCOM, where he was chief resident. He performed his sports medicine fellowship at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine/Millcreek Community Hospital in Erie, PA. “I enjoy helping people to become healthier and more fit,” said Dr. DeGooyer. “Sports medicine can help anyone, in any job or occupation, who wants to enjoy their daily lives and activities without experiencing pain or discomfort.” ommunities. Since 2015, as we continue to advance toward that goal, viders, with seven more beginning to practice this year. To schedule an appointment with one of our physicians or providers, call 793-9770 or visit www.samaritanhealthcare.com.