— by the Orcas Medical Foundation —
In the spring of 2015, the Orcas Medical Foundation (OMF) sponsored a survey of Orcas Islanders’ views of their medical needs. The survey asked detailed questions about respondents’ medical experiences and health care needs, as well as questions intended to help the Orcas Medical Center in its quality improvement efforts.
The analysis of the collected survey data is now complete, according to OMF board member Dr. Julie Gottman, who developed the survey. Surveys were distributed at many gathering points around the island over a period of several weeks, in addition to online, in an attempt to reach every economic, geographic, and age group. A total of 341 people completed the survey, mainly from the Eastsound area. People from ages 25 to over 85 responded; the largest group was ages 65–74. Sixty-seven percent of respondents have lived on Orcas for more than 10 years. Among the findings:
- The greatest general health concern of respondents was the availability of round-the-clock emergency services.
- The most common need for emergency care was for severe cuts/lacerations.
- The most commonly cited barrier to receipt of on-island health care was the lack of physicians in a needed specialty; orthopedics, ophthalmology, and oncology were the most requested specialties.
- All respondents, 100%, wanted their medical providers to improve collaboration with other local medical providers on the island.
- For educational programs, aging and conditions related to aging were the most commonly requested.
Results of responses to the medical questions may be viewed online or downloaded at https://www.orcasmedicalcenter.com/assessment-survey. Printed versions are available at the Medical Center. Results related to quality improvement at Orcas Medical Center were intended for internal use only and are not included.
My need is for Dr. Fleming to remain at the Medical Center.
My wife and I agree with Martha Farish. We love Dr. Fleming, and have great respect for her as a doctor and administrator. From our direct experiences, she seems to be a very capable, kind, and reasonable individual, committed to helping her patients achieve the very best health possible. We have witnessed firsthand the improvements she’s made in the medical center, and count ourselves grateful to be in her care.
My husband and I couldn’t agree more. Dr. Camille Fleming has been a jewel to many in this community in a short period of time. She providing commitment to patients, strong medical background and positive reinforcement to all ages.
She would be a terrible loss to us personally and to the many who have witnessed her sensitivity and assistance. We regret there have been issues that may force her departure.