FCN Opens New Ferndale Family Medical Center

Amid the pageantry of drummers from the Lummi nation, Television lights and last minute equipment moving, a crowd of well wishers gathered to launch the new Ferndale Family Medical Center on the morning of December 13th. Representatives from the Lummi Nation invoked a blessing on the new building and those who work and seek care there, and then proceeded to lead the assembled throng throughout the beautiful, modern building as they chanted and drummed. A large ribbon in Christmas colors was ceremoniously cut by a young patient named Zak, and then everyone walked in.

Dr. Bertha Safford noted that this building was long overdue."15 years ago, Ferndale had 5 full time doctors, but today, although the population has tripled, we have only 3 equivalent positions".Dr. John Hruby noted that the new building is the fruit of many individuals, working together, to build upon their shared dream of providing the best possible medical care right in Ferndale. He noted, "We are not really here because of a building, but rather to honor the importance of what happens inside!"

The new office has many conveniences and innovations. The first thing most visitors notice upon entering is the spacious reception area, with a warm, burning fireplace and inviting seating. There is a lot of natural light, with light colors, which is quite a contrast to the former office which felt cramped and dark. Patient flow has been attended to in detail, with large rooms to accommodate families, 2 special triage rooms, a modern lab, X ray facilities and well placed nurses stations.

There is a separate desk for patient sign out, and appointment staff are not located at the front, but in a special area near clinical staff. Each patient exam room is wired for the electronic medical record, and in addition, there are special doctors stations to access the EMR out in the hall. The office is built to accommodate 6 physicians, and plans are under way to recruit needed doctors as soon as possible. In the meantime, the staff, along with doctors Berdi Safford, John Hruby, Steve Lewis, Jennifer Bates and ARNP Ann Failoni will find it much easier to accommodate their patients in this new and beautiful facility.