Summit-BMC’s three cardiologists resign amid new direction

Summit Medical Group Oregon-BMC confirmed Tuesday that all three of the clinic’s cardiologists have resigned or are leaving the organization in coming weeks amid a change in direction.

NewsChannel 21 inquired about the changes last week after several patients said they’d been informed their cardiologists were leaving, just a few months after Summit Health Management was brought in to provide administrative, clinical and financial management at the 72-year-old facility.

Here is Tuesday’s full statement from Summit Medical Group Oregon-BMC:

“Over the next few months, we will be enhancing our cardiac services to ensure that we continue to offer the best cardiology care to the local community. We are currently focused on talent recruitment and exploring collaborations with other leading organizations in the Northwest.

“This activity coincides with the transitions of several of our cardiology providers. Three cardiologists will be leaving Summit Medical Group Oregon – BMC over the next few months.

* Dr. Rich Koch resigned, effective April 2nd.
* Dr. Courtney Virgilio resigned and will be leaving April 30th.
* Dr. Nahel Farraj has announced plans to pursue a once-in-a-lifetime fellowship opportunity, and will remain with us through mid-summer.

“We wish all three cardiologists the best in their future endeavors and truly appreciate their service.

“Our patients’ medical care remains our top priority. Over the next few months, Summit Medical Group Oregon-BMC will continue to offer the same diagnostic cardiology testing at the same high level of care you have come to know and trust.

“BMC was the first to offer cardiology services to Central Oregon. As Summit Medical Group Oregon – BMC, we are committed to continuing a legacy of exceptional care, and poised to shape an exciting future direction to deliver comprehensive cardiology services for the community.”

Joy Lee-Calio, Summit’s director of PR and content strategy, also told NewsChannel 21, “The transitions of the two remaining cardiologists will happen over the next few months, and Summit Medical Group Oregon-BMC will continue to offer the same ancillary services.

“We can assist patients who are under active care in connecting with a new provider to ensure the continuity of their care,” she said. “Patients can contact our Cardiology Department at 541–382–2811.”