Dr. Cindy Avery has extensive experience in community care, geriatrics, and is a skilled preceptor training and mentoring medical students and residents. She graduated from the Medical College of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, spent two years at Faculte Libre de Medicine, Lille, France, and earned a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering and pre-medical studies from the University of Massachusetts. She is Board Certified in Family Medicine. Dr. Avery speaks French and Spanish. She is married to Richard and they have an adult son, Ben, and adult daughter, Beth Ann. They also have a small menagerie of animals. She also enjoys breadmaking.
Dr. Biswas has practiced family medicine at Bucksport Regional Health Center since 2002. He became a Physician because ever since he was a child in Bangladesh, he wanted to help the sick and those in need. He is a member of the Royal College of Physicians of the United Kingdom, and board certified in internal medicine in the U.S. Dr. Biswas attended Dhaka Medical College in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Royal College of Physicians, Edinburgh, U.K. He has been married to wife, Yasamin, for 28 years, and has two children. When he is not working, he enjoys listening to music, traveling, badminton, and photography.
Dr. Bugbee earned his medical degree, with honors, from the University of California, Davis, and completed his residency at Lancaster General Hospital, Lancaster, PA Family Practice. Dr. Bugbee is certified with the American Board of Family Physicians, and is a member of the board of directors of the Maine Academy of Family Physicians. He has an extensive experience, having worked as a family physician, an emergency room/ambulatory center physician, and a hospitalist at Blue Hill Memorial Hospital.
Dr. McCall was working in a lab doing research when her boss, took her to an outreach clinic in a rural area in Oregon. She realized rural medicine really called to her because it made her feel that it was possible to make a difference, very directly, in a community. Dr. McCall went to Albany Medical School and entered a Family Medicine Residency Program at the Mayo Clinic, in Rochester, Minnesota.
Dr. Nightingale has been practicing in the area for many years and is highly skilled in several disciplines. He earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama and is Board Certified in internal medicine, pediatrics, and laser surgery with a special interest in venous disease. He is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Physicians.
Dr. Vachon became a Physician because he wanted to help people in pain. Foot pain, to be exact, which is why he chose podiatry as his specialty. He has been practicing for several decades. His professional interests include, diabetic wounds, sports medicine, reconstructive forefoot surgery, foot wounds and injuries of the foot. He received his BS in biology from UMaine and earned his MD from Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago. He received his surgical training from Boston City Hospital, Cook County Hospital in Chicago, Podiatry Hospital of Pittsburg. Dr. Vachon is married to wife, Dottie, has three grown children, and two Wheaton terriers. When he is not working, he spends his time fishing and hunting. He also enjoys gardening, running and biking.
Hurricane Katrina came just two months after Sara and her family moved to New Orleans and overnight they were homeless and jobless. The compassion shown to her by others during this difficult time made Sara realize that she wanted to have a career where she could give back to her community. Becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner felt like the best way for her to achieve that goal. Sara specializes in family medicine, with patients of all ages. Sara has a BSN from George Mason University, and Masters of Science in Nursing from Husson University. She is married with two daughters and four cats. She loves running, traveling, reading and learning new things.
Dr. Clifford is an avid learner with an insatiable thirst for knowledge. The medical profession fits that trait perfectly. He has been a provider for decades, having spent most of his career at Bucksport Regional Health Center. He also was, at one time, the Medical Director for the MaineCare and Goold Health Systems. Dr. Clifford graduated Boston College, with a psychology major, and earned his medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine. He is married to wife, Nancy, a dentist, and has two grown children. In his spare time, he enjoys running, reading mysteries, and gardening.
Dr. Benson promotes health by advising patients concerning diet, hygiene, and methods for prevention of disease and has substantial experience in urgent care. He has a Bachelor of Science in biology and completed a Family Practice Internship at the University of Tennessee Medical Center, Knoxville, TN. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathy from West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, Lewisburg, WV. He is a member of the American Osteopathic Association, the American Medical Association, and the American Society Addiction Medicine.
Brandy became a provider because she enjoys helping people, especially in health promotion and prevention. She also enjoys building relationships with her patients. Team work with fellow providers is an important component to her as she seeks to provide the best outcomes for her patients. Brandy earned her MSN and FNP from the University of Vermont, Burlington, and her BSN from Rhode Island College. She is an AANP Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. Brandy is married with two children, three cats and three dogs. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and music festivals. Her favorite quote is, 'Cherish your yesterdays, dream your tomorrows, and live your todays.' Anonymous.
Heidi has experience in chronic disease management, geriatrics and long-term care. She earned a Master's Degree in Nursing- Family Nurse Practitioner, from Husson University, Bangor, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Maine Fort Kent. She is a Certified Rehab Registered Nurse.
Ruth Tainter, Family Nurse Practitioner, has experience in various medical specialties, including, ambulatory surgery, emergency room, and helping patients manage chronic diseases. She attended the University of Maine, Orono, and earned a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Nursing Masters. Ruth is involved with many activities that support the community and co-chairs her churchs Public Suppers which involves planning, shopping, and cooking monthly meals (prior to COVID 19 restrictions) for up to 160 individuals. When not working or volunteering, Ruth is interested in sailing, restoring a 22-foot sailboat, a 12-foot dingy and a 1978 Triumph Spitfire.
Mary E. Jude, PhD, MPH, MSN, FNP-C, has worked as a Nurse Practitioner with the tribes of Maine. She is also experienced in internal medicine, endocrinology and emergency medicine. At BRHC, She focuses on acute care and care for individuals with diabetes. She has undergraduate degrees from UMaine at Augusta, and University of the State of New York, her FNP/PA certificate from the University of North Dakota School of Community Medicine at Grand Forks, a Masters in Public Health from Loma Linda University in Loma Linda, CA, and a Masters of Science in Nursing and PhD from the University of Maine.
Dr. Christopher Jastram practices family medicine and has an interest in culinary medicine. He earned his DO degree from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and a BA biological science from the University of Rhode Island. Dr. Jastrams interests include healthcare sustainability, mountain biking, permaculture homesteading, community dance, sailing, science fiction. He has a strong background in computer technology.
David is a versatile therapist who uses solution focused brief intervention techniques to work with families in distress, intervening in substance abuse problems, treating post-trauma anxiety, using homework assignments, and providing clients with tools for problem solving. He has a BA in sociology from Taylor University, and earned his MSW in Treatment of Individuals, Families, and Groups from Loyola University. David is married and has an adult son and daughter. He moved to Maine as a young adult to pursue Maines wilderness and outdoor activity that is where you will find him now when he is not working.
Jonathan, a clinical psychologist, has practiced for decades and uses evidence-based cognitive-behavioral, collaborative and solution-focused brief intervention techniques to work with a diverse range of families and patients of all ages. He earned his MS in Counseling/Clinical Psychology from University of Oregon and his PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Virginia. He has a wife, Phyllis, and two grown children. When not working, he and Phyllis enjoy hiking, camping, riding their motorcycles and exploring Maine.
Mary-Ann has worked with all ages as a social worker, ranging from infants to elderly. Her passion is helping families, supporting parents with parenting skills and stress management, as well as with kids who have a variety of challenges. She provides individual, couple, family counseling, as well as play therapy. Mary-Ann earned a Bachelor of Arts and a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Maine. She is a member of Phi Alpha Honor Society. She is married with two daughters and two cats. When not working, she enjoys working in her flower gardens, doing family activities, playing computer games, and arts and crafts. She has two favorite quotes: Dont give up. I believe in you all. A persons a person, no matter how small. Dr. Seuss. And, You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make. Jane Goodall.
As part of our Behavioral Health Program Carlie sees patients in Bucksport and in Ellsworth. She provides counseling and co-facilitatesMedication Assisted TreatmentGroups. She has worked as a case manager, provided in-home therapy to families, worked as a psychiatric clinician on an inpatient unit, and spent time as an assistant clinical director for a residential program in the state. Carlie graduated from the University of Maine with a master's in social work. She is a local girl, having grown up in Bar Harbor. She now resides on the ocean with her wife and four dogs. Carlie enjoys kayaking and exploring islands nearby. She is an American Red Cross Disaster Mental Health Volunteer and a trainer of suicide prevention and domestic trafficking of children awareness.
Isabelle believes that people are capable of positive change and growth that can come in many ways. She attended the University of Maine earning degrees in social work. Isabelle was born and raised Ellsworth and has family in the area. She lives with two rescue cats. Her favorite quote is, If you dont like something, change it. If you cant change it, change your attitude. Maya Angelou
Julie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing clinical social work for over 25 years. She has a broad range of experience in a variety of mental health and addiction settings with the adult population ages 18-98. She specializes in trauma-related issues and is EMDR certified. She earned a degree from University of Southern Maine, then attended graduate school at Boston University. While working in geriatrics, she went to United Theological Seminary to help clients with end-of-life issues and earned her Doctor of Ministry degree. Julie has two children, three grandchildren, two cats and a dog. She enjoys hiking, fly fishing and skiing.
Dentistry is in Dr. Gualtieris blood. His father was a dentist, and they practiced together until, at the age of 80, his dad retired. His father taught him, at a young age, the fundamental principles of being a good dentist. Dr. Gualtieri is skilled in all aspects of dentistry. He received an Associates Degree in Dental Hygiene from NYC Technical College, a BS in Microbiology from Wagner College and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree at New York University College of Dentistry. Dr. Gualtieri resides in Castine with his family, Kelly and their children, as well as their aquatic turtle. His hobbies include a love for muscle cars and vintage two stroke motorcycles.
Jessica received an Associates Degree in Dental Hygiene from the University of Maine at Augustas Bangor campus, in 2006. She began working at Bucksport Regional Health Center that same year. She is thankful to work in a strong team environment, and feels that the patients recognize and benefit tremendously from this. She is mindful of her patients who are anxious and nervous in the dental office setting, and takes great pride in ensuring a comfortable and successful visit. When she is not in the office, she enjoys spending quality time with her children, Taylor, Blayne, and Kinley, being with family and friends, watching Taylor play sports, camping, attending concerts and cheering on the New England Patriots!
Nicole is passionate about working in the dental field. She thoroughly enjoys her working relationship with patients of all ages. She finds it very rewarding to have the opportunity to help and educate each patient individually. Nicole attended Bucksport High School, and graduated from the University of Maine at Augustas Bangor campus, receiving an Associates Degree in Dental Hygiene. She began her dental hygiene career at a private dental office in Blue Hill, and was thrilled to have the opportunity to practice in her hometown, at Bucksport Regional Dental Center, starting in 2013. Nicole is married to her husband James, who is a Merchant Mariner, Police Officer, and Army National Guardsman. They have two children, Alexis and Wyatt, and a Husky named Kylie. When she is not at work, she enjoys any outdoor activity with her family and friends. She particularly enjoys biking, kayaking, hiking and fishing.
Whitney Jones, DMD, first had the thought of becoming a dentist in the 6th grade. She developed a love for science and helping people. She grew up in a small town which drove her to dentistry to improve access to healthcare for Maine communities like the one she was raised in. She studied dental medicine at the University of New England in Portland, ME. When not working, Dr. Jones enjoys anything sports or outdoor related. She likes hiking with partner, Tess, and Great Dane, Rory, kayaking, softball, watching the Red Sox and Patriots, and traveling.
BRHC encountered many hurdles to stay afloat, it not only survived, it thrived into what it is today. By 1978-79, the Center was serving about 6800 patients and a new facility, at 110 Broadway, where it is currently located, was opened on July 11, 1981.
On or about the 20th anniversary, the building acquired an addition to expand services. Later another addition was added to house the dental suite. In 2011, as part of the Affordable Care Act, BRHC received federal funding to expand the front of our building which now houses our education room and our Behavioral Health Services.
Today the health center offers primary medical care, dental services and behavioral health and serves just under 8,000 people in Bucksport and 10 surrounding towns. We have a well-equipped staff to serve our patients needs. Bucksport Regional Health Center is a Federally Qualified Health Center and receives federal funding to allow the provision of services to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay.
The mission of the Bucksport Regional Health Center is to service the primary health care needs of the people of our service area, and beyond, by providing an environment within which our patients can reach and maintain excellent emotional and physical health through the maintenance of a fiscally viable, compassionate organization that strives for excellence by respecting and preserving the dignity of our patients and employees.
Bucksport Regional Health Center will be the medical, dental, and behavioral health provider of choice. We provide an experience that includes caring, compassion, quality, safety, innovation, and excellence with focus on the mind/ body connection.
Thank you for visiting Bucksport Regional Health Centers website. It is our privilege to provide you the highest quality medical, dental, behavioral health, and other services at our center. Our organization has served the greater Bucksport area since 1974. Over those decades, we have seen several changes to our community, but through it all we have been here to assist you and your family to live your healthiest life.
Our mission is to meet the primary health care needs of the people of our community, people like you. Our environment and culture at BRHC is supportive of our patients as we help them achieve and maintain their very best emotional and physical health, regardless of insurance or an ability to pay.
Bucksport Regional Health Center is a federally qualified health center(FQHC). As a FQHC, our Board of Directors has to be composed mainly of people who live in a community we serve and are a patient of our center. They all volunteer their time and are very dedicated to the needs of our patients and the community.
If you are interested in becoming a board member, please complete the Board Member Application. You may mail the application to: BRHC, ATTN: Carol Carew, CEO, 110 Broadway, Bucksport, ME 04416 or you may complete, scan, and email to [emailprotected]
We participate in the Maine Quality Counts quality initiative program, demonstrating that we meet the quality indicators necessary to be recognized as a Patient-Centered Medical Home. BRHC also has recognition as a MaineCare health home.
BRHC believes in supporting strong community relationships to enhance the health and well-being of our community. We participate with the Bucksport Bay Healthy Communities on several community-based projects. Other collaborations are with Aroostook Mental Health Center(AMHC); Healthy Acadia; Acadia Hospital; Blue Hill Memorial Hospital, RSU 25 and others.
BRHC has recently initiated a Patient/Family Advisory Council made up of key staff at the center and patients/family members who utilize BRHC services. We recognize that we cannot be successful as a Patient Centered Medical Home unless we are open to feedback from our patients and families.