The Kinwell Clinic officially opened on December 30, 2021, with physicians hoping to bring more awareness of a new clinic that accepts Premera Insurance plans.
By 2034, the U.S. is projected to face a shortage of up to 124,000 physicians, 48,000 of which will be in primary care alone, according to a 2021 study by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC).
Kinwell Clinic's Director of Behavioral Health Josh Cutler said that although there is a growing shortage of healthcare physicians, Cutler believes that Kinwell is doing its part in addressing that crisis head-on.
"I actually had an interview with a physician that was interested in working in Wenatchee just last week. I was telling him about what a beautiful area it is and he was real excited about the possibility," Director of Behavioral Health Josh Cutler said. "It's definitely an attractive place for people who are in especially higher cost areas, especially as patient demand increases, we'll be adding more physicians."
The Kinwell clinics will serve people who have Premera Blue Cross, Premera Blue Cross Medicare plans or LifeWise Health Plan of Washington as their primary insurance, as well as BlueCard holders which will help to reduce wait times and elevate patient care.
Cutler finds that many established Wenatchee clinics are excited to have another partner in the community. Specifically, Cutler has found that Kinwell's behavioral health department is adding a more holistic treatment plan for their clients.
"So for example, someone with depression really should be screened for thyroid issues. We should also be talking about diet and exercise and whether there's any other health conditions that could be impacting your mood, then you would also have an opportunity to meet with a behavioral health specialist who can help with some brief counseling and support."
Cutler wants to stress his enthusiasm for Kinwell Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mia Wise's vision in providing long-term healthcare solutions for rural communities.
"She has an incredible vision that definitely inspired me to come on board for how we can redefine primary care in a way that can really be actually a positive and healing environment and experience. Even, dare I say, some delight involved where you look forward to seeing your clinic and people really have the space to heal and recover."
The Wenatchee Kinwell clinic is located at 201 Valley Mall Parkway, Suite 3, East Wenatchee, WA 98802. For more information about the Kinwell clinics, please visit: www.kinwellhealth.com.
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