Adventist Health thriving a year later

Adventist Health's Wasco office, run by Dr. Isaac Sanchez, opened up a year ago at 1040 7th St.

Inside the office, the waiting room chairs are now safely distanced and each patient is greeted by a receptionist behind a protected counter. After stepping through the door, each patient is also screened for a fever.

Sanchez is originally from McFarland and his wife, Vanessa, is from Soledad. The two decided to move to Bakersfield, which was a compromise from rural McFarland and the much-larger Soledad community. Prior to arriving in Wasco, Dr. Sanchez treated obstetrics patients.

"There have been a few patients I look forward to seeing each visit," Sanchez said. "They might have a dire diagnosis, but they have the best attitude. They are always upbeat and positive."

His family medicine practice consists mainly of patients with cold-like symptoms, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Adventist Health takes Medi-Cal, Medicare and PPO insurance plans. The practice does not take any HMO plans. There is also a discount medical insurance plan for those without medical coverage.

Adventist Health recently welcomed Nurse Practitioner Amberlee Montarella. The clinic covers preventative medicine, wellness exams, women's health and chronic disease management.

Sanchez obtained his residency at Adventist Health White Memorial in East Los Angeles.

Montarella has a master's in nursing/family nurse practitioner from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. as well as a bachelor's in nursing from the University of Central Arkansas. She is certified in the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

Sanchez is currently seeing new patients and an appointment can be made at 661-758-7801. Call for office hours.