Community Update #6 from LIHD and CWMA: Lopez Medical Clinic Transition
November 4, 2025
The University of Washington will stop running the Lopez Island Clinic on June 30, 2026.
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News & Meetings – Lopez Island Hospital District
New Clinic Partner Process: Confidentiality Reminder
Have you ever applied for a job where you knew others were also in the running? Or
submitted a proposal for a project? If so, you understand the importance of confidentiality
— to ensure fairness for all candidates and organizations involved.
Similarly, during this process of selecting a new clinic operator, we’re committed to
maintaining confidentiality. This protects the integrity of the process and gives all parties a
fair opportunity to present their qualifications. We appreciate your understanding as we
navigate this important decision. While details about specific candidates must remain
confidential for now, here’s what we can share:
Clinic Operator Exploration Update
Oversight/Partner Group – Potential Healthcare System Partners
Outreach to six potential partners is complete, with all agreeing to initial conversations.
Four organizations remain interested; two have signed confidentiality agreements and have
received an information packet prepared by HFPD, with input from the Partner Group,
outlining the Lopez community; the Clinic’s history, performance and care model; current
healthcare resources and needs on the island; and community desires for a care model.
Independent Group – Potential Locally Owned and Operated Clinic
Rural Health CPAs continue to support the Independent Group in developing a financial
model for a community-owned clinic. The model—now being refined to reflect actual payer
mix, staAing costs, and patient volumes—will include three scenarios (“Bare Bones,” “Mid
Point,” and “Gold”) expected in early November.
The group is also evaluating reimbursement options (Rural Health Clinic and Federally
Qualified Health Clinic Look-Alike) and learning about similar rural clinics, including
outreach to several comparable clinics. Next steps include exploring structure, staffing,
and technology requirements for an independent operation.
New Website Resources
Check out two new pages on the LIHD website focused on the clinic transition and
timeline: New Clinic Transition
➤ Upcoming Public Meetings
✔ Continue to Visit the Clinic!
o PA Sam Rich is seeing patients in person at the Clinic on Mondays, Tuesdays,
Thursdays, and Fridays.
o ARNP Preicy Frianeza-Garin is available full-time, Monday through Thursday, via
telehealth.
o Same-day telemedicine appointments are often available within one hour. Learn
more at: uwmedicine.org/virtual-care/same-day-primary-care. 8 AM – 8 PM, 364
days/year
o UW doctors from off-island have been coming to help at the clinic. More are
scheduled for November and December.
✔ Support Clinic Operations
Arrive on time (or early) for appointments.
Please finish your paperwork before your appointment to be prepared for your visit.
Call the clinic directly with any questions or concerns at 360-468-2245, then press
✔ Stay Informed and Involved
LIHD Website: lopezislandhd.org/news
CWMA Website: catherinewashburnmedical.org
Facebook: @LopezIslandHD; Lopez Rocks News & Views: lopezrocks.org
Bulletin Boards: Lopez Village Market, Library, and Southend Market
Attend LIHD and CWMA public meetings
Thank you for your continued patience and support as we move through this important transition.
Together, we’re committed to building a strong, sustainable future for healthcare on Lopez Island.