Unfortunately, there are big changes in the local healthcare community.

With the recent loss of several healthcare providers, island-wide rumors abound. I would like to put to rest the one that I am retiring.

I have no plans now or in the immediate future to retire or leave the island. I remain committed to this community and to providing the best health care possible to island residents. I continue to love what I do.

2014 has been a very busy year. I have completed multiple re-certifications, which include passing both family practice and geriatric boards. I completed the nationally recognized process to be a certified medical director for skilled nursing homes and attended training for and passed my certification to do CDL (commercial driver license) exams.

Believe me, I would not have put myself through the cost and hours of meetings and testing if I wasn’t planning to stick around.

San Juan Healthcare is actively searching for and interviewing perspective providers. We are confident that, while replacing Leslie Mutchler, ARNP, will be difficult, there is the perfect candidate out there.

San Juan Healthcare’s commitment to health care and our community remains strong. Our staff and family ties add strength to our determination to see that superior healthcare continues to be available to all in our community.

Dr. Burk Gossom, San Juan Island