NorthShore to Merge with One Community Health
by Cole Goodwin
White Salmon, WA, June 26, 2023 – Starting in January 2024, NorthShore Medical Group (NSMG) will become a part of One Community Health (OCH), with the goal of improving convenience and expanding services. The partnership also aims to enhance healthcare accessibility for residents in Washington while ensuring continuity of care for approximately 41,000 patients.
"Teaming up will allow us to bring the best possible care to our patients,” said Dr. Allen LaBerge of NSMG “At NorthShore, we consider it a great privilege to care for our neighbors and community. Growing together with One Community Health will be a great thing for the health of the Gorge."
NSMG assured the public that they will make every effort to make the transition as smooth as possible.
“We will have the same providers and staff. Patients can continue to call the same phone numbers, and we'll remain here for the community 7 days a week,” said Dr. Chris Samuels of NSMG.
Dr. Samuels further highlighted the expanded services that will benefit Washington patients, including access to diabetic educators, dental care, additional mental health services, and mobile clinics, provided by OCH.
One notable aspect of this partnership is the commitment to providing care to patients with or without health insurance. Both organizations receive federal funding for that purpose. Additionally, both organizations offer a comprehensive sliding scale discount program for uninsured individuals. New NSMG patients will now have the opportunity to utilize the sliding scale discount program for insurance plans with high deductibles, copayments, or limited coverage. Moreover, NSMG patients will no longer have a Medicare Part B deductible.
Those with insurance have been assured that Medicaid (Apple Health and the Oregon Health Plan), and most commercial insurance plans will continue to be accepted.
Max Janasik, Chief Executive Officer at One Community Health, expressed his appreciation for NSMG's longstanding commitment to the Gorge community.
"We are honored to come together to continue to build upon that strong legacy and expand access to essential services like dental care and obstetrics for Washington community members. The combined expertise, passion, and outstanding providers both organizations bring together will help ensure Gorge residents have access to excellent care for decades to come,” said Janasik.
