The partnership of Infections Limited, PS and Hematology Oncology Northwest, PC facilitated the introduction of a new line of medical services to the Tacoma area, namely the provision of integrated cancer treatment and infectious diseases services in the same physician clinic.

Merging the operations of both practices has had a synergistic effect that has been beneficial to both medical groups by the creation of internal economies of scale to improve operating efficiencies. This is particularly relevant for medical practices offering infusion, add-mix and clinical laboratory services. All of these services require significant investment in state-of-the-art technology. Consequently, providing these services results in high, fixed overhead costs, which are independent of patient volume. Combining patient volumes of the two practices has resulted in a reduction of fixed overhead costs per patient. This strengthens the ability of Northwest Medical Specialties to continue to provide high quality, cost effective care while competitors contemplate "cutting corners" on patient care in response to shrinking reimbursement.

Northwest Medical Specialties is dedicated to providing compassionate, high quality and cost effective medical services to its patients with serious infections, malignancies and immune disorders who reside in Pierce, Kitsap and King counties. The basic operating assumption of the physicians of Northwest Medical Specialties is that the patient's physician is the most appropriate person to manage and balance all facets of patient care, including both clinical and business decisions. Whenever possible NWMS is committed to providing services outside the confines of the hospital setting when outpatient care is deemed appropriate for the patient's condition and is consistent with the needs and desires of the patient and family.

Northwest Medical Specialties acknowledges that it can not meet its commitments to patients and their families without the dedicated effort of its staff. Consequently, NWMS is committed to providing a working environment that recognizes the unique contribution of every employee to the success of the organization and that supports the professional development of all team members.