The following was submitted by Tony Giefer.

My last day practicing at Orcas Medical Center is Friday, June 30. I have enjoyed the experience of practicing on Orcas Island for the last 12 years of my career and I am very thankful to the Orcas Medical Foundation and all of you for your kind support.

I’m sorry the notice is so short but I just learned last week that I was not offered a position with the new UW Medicine clinic and my current contract with Island Hospital will be ending at the end of this month. Island Hospital will be sending letters to patients and Orcas Medical Center will continue operation until the UW Medicine clinic opens, though the hours and services may change. I continue to have no doubt that the UW Medicine clinic on Orcas is absolutely the best thing for the island and remain completely supportive of this transition. UW Medicine is fully committed to starting operations by Oct. 1, 2017 at the latest. MaryAnn and I will remain on the island and look forward to spending more time with our children and grandchildren. My deepest appreciation to all those who have allowed me to play a role in their healthcare.