Adventist Health Announces Updates to Expand Primary Care

Adventist Health is announcing updates to the care model at Adventist Health Medical Office – Vernonia to better meet the long-term healthcare needs of the local community. These changes reflect a continued commitment to providing accessible, relationship-based primary care while strengthening services for years to come.

Over the coming months, the Vernonia clinic will transition to a primary care-focused model supported by one managing Medical Doctor and two Certified Nurse Practitioners and/or Physician Assistants, roles that are highly trained to deliver comprehensive, high-quality primary care. Recruitment is underway for additional providers, along with support staff to sustain this expanded model. As part of this transition, clinic days and hours may shift to align with patient demand, offering both scheduled and same-day appointments.

Once new staffing is established, urgent care services previously offered at the Vernonia clinic will transition into expanded primary care access. This change better matches how patients have been seeking care and will help patients establish long-term relationships with their care teams — a proven approach to improving preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and achieving better overall health outcomes. Adventist Health remains committed to ensuring timely care for illnesses and minor injuries while strengthening a stable, community-rooted primary care presence in Vernonia.

“These updates are guided by what we’re hearing from the community and by our responsibility to build a sustainable care model that serves Vernonia well into the future,” said Jill Waters, PhD, Administrative Director of Clinical Operations at Adventist Health. “Our focus is on expanding access, supporting continuity, and ensuring the future high-quality care close to home remains strong in Vernonia.”