The Chautauqua Center Inc. has agreed to a mutually beneficial merger with Tri-County Family Medicine Associates in Gowanda, expanding its reach and capabilities to better serve patients in northeastern Chautauqua County, southeastern Erie County, and northwestern Cattaraugus County.

This acquisition strengthens the future of Tri-County Family Medicine Associates and expands our commitment to providing the highest quality of care and access to the latest treatments and technology in rural medicine. Tri-County Family Medicine Associates is well-known in the region for its high-quality services and staff. The existing staff is looking forward to working with The Chautauqua Center to create a seamless care experience for patients.

Tri-County Family Medicine Associates was started by Dr. James Wild, Dr. Dana Anderson, Dr. Andrea Manyon, and Dr. Cristina Misa, more than 35 years ago and included practices in Cattaraugus and Conewango Valley. By practicing in a physician shortage area, Dr. Wild was able to fulfill a National Health Service Corps scholarship. There were many changes to the practice over the years, but one of the most memorable was when Tri-County Family Medicine Associates lost its office space and Tri-County Hospital was destroyed by flooding in 2009. After moving to North Collins for a short time, Tri-County Family Medicine Associates settled into its current location at 1 School St. in 2011.

Dr. Wild and Dr. Anderson, both board certified in Family Medicine, will continue to see their patients at Tri-County Family Medicine Associates. Dr. Wild is a graduate of the University of Buffalo School of Medicine, is a Clinical Associate Professor of Family Medicine at his alma mater, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Anderson is a graduate of Ohio State College of Medicine and is also a Clinical Assistant Professor in Family Medicine at UB School of Medicine. TCFM hosts medical students from UB School of Medicine, as well as PA students and Nurse Practitioner students from various local colleges each year to practice in a rural healthcare setting.

Mallorie Schwab and Lauralee Sibiga are experienced and highly qualified Physician Assistants continuing to practice at Tri-County Family Medicine. In addition, Melissa Wisniewski, a Family Nurse Practitioner, will be joining the provider team. Together with the excellent nursing and office staff, patients should expect no interruptions in service or care.

“We are confident that this merger will result in the long-term sustainability of Tri-County Family Medicine. We commit to providing the highest quality of care to existing and new patients, with no lapses in services. This is a positive move for our organization and the community it serves. We are excited about this new opportunity,” said Michael Pease, Chief Executive Officer of The Chautauqua Center.