Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 3, 2020

Sean Urquhart, M.D. OB-GYN Hospitalist Tell us a little bit about you andyour family: I have been happily married to my wife, Kathy, for 29 years and have three children, ages 23 to 27. I grew up in southeastern Washington and worked in private practice in Lewiston, Idaho, for 17 years before starting here. Why did you pick your specialty? My intention when I went to medical school was emergency medicine, but my first rotation in my third year was OB-GYN and I decided to make it my future. I am now an OB-GYN hospitalist working in an OB-GYN emergency department, so maybe things have come full circle! What can patients expect when they first meet with you? I try to be kind and listen and address their problem. It is scary for many to come to the hospital, so I try to put them at ease and hopefully get them to crack a smile. What are some of your hobbies? My hobbies include golf, snow skiing, travel, and enjoying live music and the outdoors. What drewyou to Kootenai Health? I was drawn to Kootenai due to their excellent reputation, the ability to have a goodwork/life balance, and the beauty of Coeur d’Alene. Since we lived just two hours south, we visited the area many times and were quite familiar with the amenities. What is your favorite healthy tip? Get enough sleep! Sleep is very important to your overall health. And of course, don’t forget to eat just enough that you’re not hungry and exercise. Abby Gardner, M.D. Kootenai Clinic Internal Medicine Tell us a little bit about you and your family: I grew up on a ranch in central Montana. I met my husband during undergrad at MSU–Bozeman, and we have been following each other around the country finishing up our medical training ever since. We are thrilled to be back in the Northwest. My husband, Phil, grew up here and is now practicing as an ENT, and we have two amazing little girls. Why did you pick your specialty? I’ve always enjoyed primary care and the opportunity to form lasting relationships with patients. What can patients expect when they first meet with you? A genuine interest in who they are as a person, as well as in their medical needs. What are some of your hobbies? Spending time outside with my family! Hiking, swimming in the lake and skiing. I am also always on the hunt for a new podcast or book. What drew you to Kootenai Health? The opportunity to serve the community I live in and help fill the ever-growing need for primary care physicians. What is your favorite healthy tip? Keep it simple. Eat your veggies; stick to whole, natural foods; and stay active! To schedule an appointment, call (208) 625-4965 . KH . ORG 11