C. Vaughan Bulfinch, DO, Family Physician, PNWU-COM Class of 2012
“I feel very lucky to be here,” said Dr. C. Vaughan Bulfinch, gazing over the Selah Gap – a Yakima River-carved basalt stone channel from his beloved town to his beloved Alma Mater.
As a primary care physician, Dr. Bulfinch serves families from both sides of the gap, and all walks of life, nurturing their health and well-being from childhood through their golden years. That journey to care was shaped by his roots deeper than river water can reach.
A Hometown Commitment
Growing up in Washington, Dr. Bulfinch developed a firsthand appreciation for the profound impact that accessible healthcare can have on families. “My wife, Heather, grew up here, and Selah has become my home,” he reflects. “I’m glad my children will grow up as ‘Selah Vikings.’” His deep personal connection fuels a persistent dedication to his patients, many of whom he has known for years.
During his time at PNWU, Dr. Bulfinch faced the unique challenge of being part of the grassroots university’s inaugural class. The risks of signing on to an unproven program were far outweighed by the potential rewards of bringing care back home, through the gap that sat a short drive from the then-tumbleweed strewn would-be health sciences campus.
“The experience fostered resilience and a strong network amongst my classmates,” said Dr. Bulfinch. “We were pioneers in many ways, and that shaped my expectations and goals,” he recalls, highlighting the camaraderie that remains a cornerstone of his career.
Caring for Generations in Selah
As a family physician in Selah, Dr. Bulfinch’s typical day is a tapestry of interactions with patients of all ages. He addresses their diverse health challenges, from routine check-ups to complex medical issues, always with a personalized and community-informed approach.
“My connection to Selah influences everything I do.”
“My connection to Selah influences everything I do,” he explained. “Understanding the unique needs of my community helps me provide better care.”
Dr. Bulfinch’s commitment extends beyond the clinic. He recently concluded nine years of dedicated service as a PNWU Trustee, and was one of the inaugural donors who led to the establishment of PNWU’s COM Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund, which supports exceptional osteopathic medicine students who demonstrate financial need and are committed to practicing in underserved areas within the five-state region of Washington, Oregon Alaska, Idaho, and Montana.
“Scholarships play a critical role in fulfilling our mission,” he emphasizes. “They enable mission-driven individuals to pursue their dreams, ensuring that compassionate care reaches those who need it most. My continued involvement stems from a desire to create more opportunities for those aspiring physicians, much like the opportunties that were afforded to me at PNWU.”
Through his work, Dr. Bulfinch has witnessed the positive ripple effects of quality healthcare in the Yakima Valley. As he looks to the future, he is hopeful about the evolving landscape of rural healthcare.
“PNWU graduates are integral to addressing the healthcare needs of underserved communities,” he asserts. “By supporting scholarships and programs, we can ensure that future leaders emerge, ready to make a difference.”