Business Partners

Sudha Schlesinger, Ph.D. / Engel & Völkers

Since moving to Sonoma County with my physician husband in 2007, I have been actively representing physician families in the local housing market. I specialize in NE and SE Santa Rosa with experience in all of Sonoma County. I have earned an exemplary reputation with my enthusiasm for real estate and passion for first-class service. With the backing of a recognized, global luxury broker, Engel & Völkers, my team and I repeatedly exceed expectations with customized marketing and purchase strategies, efficient execution and state-of-the-art marketing tools. I consider my greatest value to clients to be expert negotiating skills and guiding clients to make good investments.

BENEFIT: SMLMA sellers and buyers receive a complimentary Pest Inspection. Please let me know how I can help you in this challenging market. 707-889-7778 or sudha@sschlesinger.com. • www.sschlesinger.com

First Citizens Bank

First Citizens Bank continues its unique legacy of strength, stability, and long-term thinking as we celebrate our 125th year helping clients meet their financial goals. With an experienced team specializing in banking for medical practices, FCB works closely with physicians and practice leaders to tailor business strategies to individual needs.

At First Citizens Bank, we understand the challenges you face in managing finances for your medical practice. We can help you (1) finance growth and development of your practice, (2) reduce operating costs, (3) increase efficiency of business processes, (4) maximize your cash flow, (5) manage business risks, and (6) enhance your benefits package.

FCB also operates a nationwide direct bank and a network of more than 550 branches in 22 states. Industry specialists bring a depth of expertise that helps businesses and individuals meet their specific goals at every stage of their financial journey.

BENEFIT: SMLMA members who join First Citizens Bank receive a FREE merchant services terminal, a FREE remote deposit scanner, and a 50 percent reduction of real estate loan origination fees.

Contact: Team Lead for Medical Practice Banking — Ty Gibneyat 916-329-6325 or ty.gibney@firstcitizens.com. Also see Solutions for Healthcare Challenges on the FCB website.

Cooperative of American Physicians

The Cooperative of American Physicians, Inc. is pleased to support Sonoma county physicians with superior medical malpractice coverage and valuable services to help you prosper and maintain your independence.

BENEFIT: Our comprehensive risk management programs help ensure your patients are safe and satisfied, while our value-added practice management benefits provide you with the administrative support you need to focus on what’s most important—patient care.

For more information, please visit www.CAPphysicians.com/sonoma, email md@CAPphysicians.com, or call 800-356-5672.

Thakur Law Firm APC

Thakur Law Firm is an experienced, full-service law firm focused on assisting physicians and their practices in northern and southern California. The firm offers SMLMA members a Healthcare Professional Plan, specifically designed for the Medical Association. The Plan provides legal advice and services at reasonable and discounted fees. Whether you need representation in a lawsuit, help starting a medical corporation or selling your practice, or simply want professional eyes on a new employment agreement, TLF can help. See SMLMA partnership brochure for areas of healthcare expertise, plus other legal, estate, and business planning services available.

BENEFIT: SMLMA members receive initial complimentary consultations for new matters; 10% off hourly rates for pre-litigation and litigation; flat fee discounted rates for employment and contract matters, compliance audits, contract reviews, estate planning services, and more.

CONTACT: Call 844-394-6430, email info@thakurlawfirm.com or visit https://www.thakurlawfirm.com/.

David Berry / Berry & Babb Law, P.C.

I am an experienced local lawyer dedicated to helping people navigate the legal process, whether it is negotiating provider or other contracts, assisting clients buy/sell practices, negotiating leases, or resolving a variety of business and personal disputes. My firm provides a broad range of services that include trust and estate litigation; a significant part of my practice is representing building owners with construction defects and other problems. I am committed to helping the medical community, with deeply held gratitude for the local medical providers who saved my wife’s life.

BENEFIT: A free initial consultation to SMLMA members. If retaining me or my firm makes sense, we will discuss how to do so. If a lawyer outside of my firm is a better fit, I will make the referral. My goal is for physicians to leave the consultation feeling that they received excellent support and service.

CONTACT: Contact David Berry at 707-800-0550 or david@berryandbabb.com.

Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation

Home to one of the most diverse park systems in California, Sonoma County’s 58 regional parks include mostly open space conservation land, developed trails, beaches, campgrounds, and picnic areas. Ranging from the Pacific Coast and mountains to urban green spaces, each park offers something unique — including scenic vistas, forested trails, river access, athletic fields, swimming and playgrounds. The Parks Foundation raises funds, fosters partnerships and advocates on behalf of this spectacular Sonoma County Regional Parks system.

The Parks Foundation is pleased to partner with Sonoma County Regional Parks and SMLMA on a Parks Rx program. The program offers “prescription forms” in English and Spanish for physicians to give their patients. The forms encourage patients to spend time outdoors enjoying nature, which can lead to improved health, wellness, and peace of mind.

CONTACT: For additional information about the nonprofit Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation, see the website or contact Executive Director Melissa Kelley at melissa.kelley@sonoma-county.org or 707-565-1830. To learn more about activities in Sonoma County parks, visit the Regional Parks website.