Columbia Pediatrics will join Columbia Valley Community Health

Columbia Pediatrics, in private practice since the late 80's will be sold to the non-profit Columbia Valley Community Health by the end of the year.

Dr. Jerry Crawford, a co-founder of Columbia Pediatrics told the Wenatchee World it is difficult for small private practices to operate in today's medical environment.  Crawford cited regulations, the complexity of medical billing and negotiating with insurance companies as reasons the practice approached Columbia Valley Community Health about a possible merger.  The changes will likely be minimal for patients and will improve access for those without insurance through Columbia Valley Community Health's sliding fee schedule based on income.

All four pediatricians and the entire staff will remain with the practice when the transition is finalized by January 1st, 2018