Hello, my name is Cary Ecker. I am on the November ballot for the opportunity to continue my service as a Commissioner (Position #2) for Cascade Medical. My wife, Regina, and I have been full-time residents of Lake Wenatchee since 2021 and property owners for decades. At one point in my career, I provided financial services to 85% of the rural hospitals and community health centers in the Pacific NW which gave me insight into how healthcare facilities navigate daily challenges to offer outstanding care to their communities. Regina is a retired board-certified Family Practice Physician, so I have a good perspective on what professionally trained medical staff need to perform at their highest capability.
Sometimes we take medical care for granted when it is not needed, but that changes in a second when it is needed. Many rural communities have seen their local hospitals cut services or permanently close due to funding constraints. In most cases, rural hospitals are one of the most vital economic engines of the community. We are fortunate to have a financially healthy, rural hospital in Leavenworth with exceptional providers and staff looking for avenues to expand access and types of care. For example, endoscopies and MRI capabilities now exist at Cascade. We cannot take this for granted.
Technology, especially AI, is going to dramatically change how healthcare is provided in the future including where it is provided. I am thrilled to be one of the 5 Commissioners working on a new strategic plan and a master facilities plan which will guide how Cascade Medical cares for its patients now and into the future.
I will work to ensure Cascade Medical continues to support the greater Lake Wenatchee community and further strengthens its relationship with LWFR.
If you have any suggestions, concerns, or questions about Cascade Medical, please contact me at cary.ecker@cascademedical.org.
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