Dr. Bruce J. Kiessling: Primary Care Associates.

• Author: Stomierowski, Peg
• Position: View from the Top - Interview

Dr. Bruce J. Kiessling of Primary Care Associates in Anchorage started the practice 25 years ago and is happy to reflect that it has matured into being the largest and most continuous primary care group in Alaska.

ABM: How's the view from the top at Primary Care Associates?

Kiessling: Even with all the changes in technology and medical knowledge, our view is the same: We respect every person's decision to trust us with their care. The professional staff meets every week, pooling our experience, know-how and resources to improve patient service.

ABM: Describe your business structure and PCA's facilities and growth in Alaska.

Kiessling: In 1985, I started PCA after working as a physician in Alaska since 1974. In 1998, I sold the business assets to HealthSouth, which spun it off three years later to USHealthWorks. All of the practitioners are a part of my professional corporation, which contracts with USHealthWorks. Patient care is decided by medical practitioners; USHealthWorks provides staff and facility management, marketing and growth support.

ABM: In strategic planning, how do you deal with current medical system ambiguities?

Kiessling: As proactively as possible. Our caregivers are active in the community, on legislative committees, and in professional organizations. We strive to contribute medical perspective in matters of policy formation or with third-party involvement in care and reimbursement. Good business means no surprises. So much intrudes already into the doctor-patient relationship that being "at the table" helps us both to advocate for patients and to anticipate how to do it best.

ABM: How are patients being better served?

Kiessling: In many ways, including these:

Availability We have convenient hours, four locations (two in mid-town, one in Eagle River, and one in South Anchorage), and at Huffman, we're open 13 hours a day, seven days a week.

Access We have 22 board-certified, conscientious and experienced practitioners.

Accountability We are constantly meeting and consulting on care issues within our group, online, or in the community and the Lower 48.

Community Involvement and Advocacy: Mary Ann Foland, MD, is an outstanding example of PCA's standards of patient advocacy. Awarded every possible recognition for patient care spanning her 30-plus years in Alaska, she has been at the forefront of...