At CBFM we are dedicated to providing you with the very best comprehensive medical care in your home town. Specializing in Family Medicine, our Physicians and Nurse Practitioners are devoted to the care and treatment of the entire family from infants to Senior citizens. As family medicine specialist we provide personal, convenient service including the following areas:
Gynecology (well women exam), gynecological procedures including colposcopy, endometrial and endocervical biopsy, family planning, pediatrics/adolescent medicine, geriatric care, complete physicals, dermatology including most skin surgeries, colon cancer screening, emergency care, emotional disorders, school /athletic physicals, commercial driver licensing physicals, office surgery, internal medicine, urgent care medicine.
Our special interests are diabetes, orthopedics, travel abroad medicine, urgent care medicine, heart disease, women’s health, diagnostic medicine and pediatrics. Our physicians so not provide chronic pain management consultations.
Our office hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with our walk in clinic open Monday through Friday 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. We can be reached at 754-3330 to schedule appointments and answer questions.
Our talented team of family medicine physicians and practitioners works continuously to offer a high level of care to patients across Grant County. Here is a closer look at some of the professionals that contribute to CBH’s community of caring.
Physicians
Carlos Montiel MD, Staff Physician Dr. Montiel became a doctor because of the broad spectrum of work involved in healthcare. Trained in family medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Dr. Montiel is trained to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions—everyday is a new challenge. In addition to helping patients overcome health issues, Dr. Montiel enjoys getting to know the people he helps. Forming strong partnerships with his patients is a key aspect of his medical practice. “Getting to know the people I treat has a tremendous impact on the care I provide,” Dr. Montiel says. “The better I know a patient, the better I can work to meet their health needs and encourage healing.” For Dr. Montiel, the true strength of CBH lies in the individuals that comprise its healthcare team. “The people who work at CBH are truly the facility’s best asset,” says Dr. Montiel. “Given the quality of the individuals that work here, CBH’s mission of being the first choice for patients in the area is certainly attainable.”
Michelle Hansen ARNP-Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner. A resident of Ephrata for 20years, Hansen received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Washington State University, and received her RN degree in nursing from Big Bend Community College. She specializes in women’s health, orthopedics, anticoagulation, the walk-in clinic, and well-child checks. “I really enjoy practicing medicine in a small town,” Hansen says. “Working in the walk-in clinic is fast-paced and interesting, and I love the opportunity to spend quality time with my patients, which is an opportunity I might not have in a bigger facility.” When not working, Hansen and her husband live at their house in Lake Chelan, where she enjoys boating, swimming and snow-shoeing.
Brian Kirkham B.Sc., M.Sc., MD, CM, Staff Physician A native of Canada, Dr. Kirkham grew up in the Montreal area and attended local McGill University for college. Dr. Kirkham then attended the University of Toronto, where he received his Master of Science degree in Physical Chemistry. He then spent three years working as are search chemist until he began medical school at McGill. Although he never intended to become a family physician, Dr. Kirkham quickly learned to appreciate the personal touches of this medical field. “In family medicine, you are given the unique opportunity to watch families begin and grow,” Dr. Kirkham says. “From childhood to adulthood, over the years I learn more about the ‘whole person’ and not just the medical problem the patient is facing.” A member of the CBH staff for more than 15 years, Dr. Kirkham has seen the hospital grow and continue to develop as the years have passed by. As his working relationship with the hospital continues to strengthen, he is certain to play a vital role in the facility’s future. Outside the hospital, Dr. Kirkham stays busy keeping up with his two teenage sons and spending time outside tending his garden.
Lisa Corsie FNP-BC, CEN, Family Nurse Practitioner Prior to her career in health care, Corsie received her Bachelor’s degree in physical education in instruction and coaching. After taking a particular interest in sports medicine courses, Corsie went onto pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. Following her training, Corsie served in several emergency medical positions and ultimately received her nurse practitioner degree from the University of New Mexico.” The amount of knowledge and quality of the providers at CBH is truly unique,” says Corsie. “Being apart of such a skilled staff encourages me to continue to work my hardest for each and every patient I see” Corsie sees many of the facility’s current projects as investments in the hospital’s future and believes CBH will continue offering quality care for many years to come.” The quality of care currently offered at CBH is a true asset to our rural community,” Corsie says.” As improvement efforts continue, CBH is certain to maintain a high level of quality care well into the future.” When she isn’t working, Corsie enjoys reading mystery novels and taking hikes.
Alexander Brzezny MD, MPH, FAAFP, Staff Physician A 1996 graduate of Masaryk University School of Medicine in Brno, Czech Republic, Dr. Brzezny brings a wealth of international experience to the Columbia Basin Area. Dr. Brzezny’s medical training also includes study at the University of Iceland in Reykjavik, a family medicine residency completed at the University of Texas Medical Branch, and a Master’s degree in public health from the University Of Kansas School Of Medicine. As a family physician, Dr. Brzezny takes particular pride in working with his patients to achieve healing. “I like to think we specialize in people,” says Dr. Brzezny. “The most rewarding aspect of my medical work is when a patient becomes a partner in the healing process. Working together for better health or improved quality of life tremendously improves the treatment outcomes and ultimately makes me a better physician and a more accurate diagnostician. ”Since joining the team at CBH, Dr. Brzezny has described his experience as challenging at times, but he feels the facility is in a position to provide the community with excellent care. As the area continues to grow and evolve, Dr. Brzezny is certain CBH will adapt to meet changing healthcare needs. In his free time, Dr. Brzezny is a devoted family man. He enjoys hiking, traveling, and sightseeing with his wife and two child
ren. Also an avid hockey fan, Dr. Brzezny roots for the Chicago Blackhawks, Minnesota Wild, and Detroit Red Wings.
H1N1 | Swine Flu Information
H1N1, also known as swine flu, has been affecting populations across the world in increasing numbers. Fortunately, you can protect your loved ones. Read on to learn how.
“Even though the H1N1 virus symptoms resemble those of seasonal flu, it’s important to remember that this disease was ultimately fatal for many people who were previously healthy,” says Alexander Brzezny, MD, board certified family medicine physician at Columbia Basin Hospital. “Everyone should be vigilant and take steps to help prevent the spread of the flu both in your home and in the community.”
If you are experiencing a fever higher than 100 degrees and flu symptoms such as muscle aches, chills, sore throats, and a cough, seek medical attention immediately to find out if your symptoms could be due to the H1N1 virus.
Take Preventive Action
The following are tips to help ward off the flu:
Each family member should receive the seasonal flu vaccine.
When someone becomes ill with a fever, he or she should stay home until the fever has subsided for 24 hours, while loved ones should keep their distance as much as possible.
Exercise daily and make smart dietary choices that include fruits, vegetables, and high amounts of vitamin C.
Wash your hands often and thoroughly—for at least 20 to30 seconds each time.
Get the Facts
A new vaccine, in addition to the seasonal flu shot, will be required for some individuals for protection against the H1N1 virus. The new vaccine will consist of one shot for adults and, most likely, two shots for children.” In children, the first shot will prime the immune system response, and the second will provide robust immunity,” says Dr. Brzezny. “This new H1N1 vaccine is critical for individuals who care for infants, pregnant women, all children above 6 months of age, and anyone under the age of 65 with high-risk medical conditions.”
For more information about the influenza vaccine or what you can do to help protect yourself, talk to your primary care physician. For a referral to a provider on staff, call Columbia Basin Family Medicine at (509) 754-3330.
