Physician rejoins Quincy hospital

Nick Mason helps during transition

QUINCY — Nurse practitioner Nick Mason, who worked at Quincy Valley Medical Center for 10 years, is rejoining the clinic while a full-time replacement is found for a leaving physician.

Mason was employed at the center from 1992 through 2002, said Marketing Director Dick Burkenpas.

"During that period, Nick's support to the Quincy community and to the (medical center) employees had a positive impact," Burkenpas said. "We look forward to having him back, as we know his compassionate approach will add high value to our practice."

His employment runs from Aug. 13 through Sept. 14. Burkenpas noted Mason has five years of experience providing interim services for physicians, both local and outside of Washington.

Mason is joining the clinic while a replacement is found for Dr. Wallace Newkirk, who is joining Wenatchee Veterans' Clinic.

"Our top priority is to aggressively recruit a full-time family-practice physician who will embrace (Quincy Valley Medical Center's) vision and actively address the health care needs of the Quincy community," Burkenpas said. "Our goal is to hire the best candidate for this position."

To assist in the search, the hospital is using local and national services, he said.

He thanked the community for supporting the medical center and Mason for joining the clinic.

"With the development of our surgery practice, the relocation of our physical therapy outpatient practice, and the opportunity to welcome a new member to our community, the future of (Quincy Valley Medical Center) is exciting," Burkenpas said.