PMC recruiting 2 physicians after Bullard ‘leaves’

MEEKER I Pioneers Medical Center is stepping up its recruiting efforts to fill two positions on the medical staff.
The positions were formerly held by Drs. Victor Mihal and Branch Bullard.
“Dr. Branch Bullard has left the Meeker Family Health Center,” said Bob Omer, Pioneers Medical Center chief executive officer, in a statement released Tuesday, “and we now are expanding our recruitment efforts.”
Asked about the reason for Bullard leaving, Omer said, “It was a business decision that was made by the board of directors. That’s really all there is to say, given all the circumstances, and I say that in all due respect to Dr. Bullard.”
Bullard was notified last Thursday his contract was terminated. Mihal left the hospital in 2008.
“This was a total shock and surprise to me,” Bullard said. “My family and I love Meeker. We love living here, being a part of the community. We have poured our lives into this place for the last three years, being involved in nearly every facet of local society.
“The choice to leave the clinic and hospital is not ours,” Bullard said. “I would like to say to the staff of Meeker Family Health and Pioneers Hospital, I have loved working with you. To my patients from Meeker and the surrounding areas, I have been honored to serve you for the last three years and regret that I cannot continue to do so. To the community of Meeker, my family and I are deeply saddened that we will not be able to be a part of this community.”
Hospital officials, in a statement, said, “During the transition, Meeker Family Health Center will continue its commitment to hometown service and quality patient care. MFHC has five providers available for family healthcare needs.”
Additionally, PMC has contracted with other doctors to assist with MFHC and emergency department coverage. In the meantime, Pioneers Medical Center is recruiting to fill the two family practice positions.
“We have retained a search firm to assist us in a national recruiting effort,” said Kris Borchard, president of the PMC Board of Trustees. “We are seeking physicians who will fit into our eastern Rio Blanco County community, and offer personalized care, with a deep regard for quality.”
Dr. Ross Armour, a family practice doctor from Berthoud, recently declined an offer from the hospital.