Kadlec has acquired one of the largest primary care practices in the Tri-Cities.

Three Rivers Family Medicine joined Kadlec Medical Group on June 1.

The longstanding Richland practice is now called Kadlec Clinic Three Rivers Primary Care. 

“We are thrilled to welcome the patients and staff of Three Rivers Family Medicine to the Kadlec family,” said Rob Watilo, chief operating officer of Kadlec Medical Group, in a statement. “This acquisition represents our dedication to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care to the Tri-Cities and surrounding region.”

Dr. Michael Pattillo of Three Rivers Family Medicine added that, “Three Rivers Family Medicine and Kadlec Regional Medical Center have worked together informally for decades to provide quality care for the Tri-Cities and surrounding area. We are excited to make that partnership official as we continually strive to improve patient outcomes.”

The privately-owned office has operated at 945 Goethals Drive, across the street from Kadlec Regional Medical Center, for more than 20 years. The acquisition was about a year in the making.

The financial terms aren't being disclosed.

Word started spreading to Three Rivers patients ahead of the official announcement.

The practice will continue providing the same services and its care team largely will remain the same, although billing and clinic administration will be handled by Kadlec Medical Group, according to a letter provided to patients.

Two providers, Craig Boyle and T. Candace Degenstein, aren’t staying through the transition, the letter said. All other providers will continue in the same location.

Kadlec is contracted with most of the same insurance companies, the letter said.

Three Rivers patients “can expect a smooth transition of care, with no interruption to their current treatment plans or services,” Kadlec’s statement said, adding that all existing appointments and medical records will be transferred.

The acquisition will connect Three Rivers patients to Kadlec’s network of specialty services, advanced technology and providers, the Kadlec statement said. Kadlec is part of the nonprofit, faith-based Providence health system, which has 51 hospitals and about 1,000 clinics in Alaska, California, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas and Washington.

In the last year or so, Three Rivers opened a walk-in urgent care center in West Richland. That facility is remaining independent and continues to operate as usual.