About Us

Our Story

Whatcom Occupational Health has had the privilege of being locally owned and operated for over 25 years. We offer comprehensive occupational medicinal services to ensure the employees’ effectiveness on the job.

Founded on a commitment to excellence, Whatcom Occupational Health has been a beacon of quality healthcare since its inception. In 2003, our esteemed medical director, Dr. Eric Smith, MD, joined forces with our founder, Dr. Peter Ambrose, MD, further solidifying our dedication to delivering exceptional medical services. With Dr. Smith’s leadership, our clinic continues to thrive as a trusted provider of occupational health solutions.

At Whatcom Occupational Health, accessibility and convenience are paramount. Whether you require immediate attention for an occupational injury or prefer to schedule an appointment, we accommodate both walk-ins and appointments with ease. Your well-being is our priority, and we strive to ensure that you receive the care you need, precisely when you need it.

Our goal is to provide and promote a healthy workforce, prevent illness, and work with employers on occupational hazards that cause risks to employees.
 
Our treatment philosophy emphasizes early return to work of injured employees (when medically safe). We’re proud to be in the Center of Occupational Health and Education (COHE) Alliance of Western Washington.
 
Our staff can work to design an affordable, workable program for your company. We offer extended hours, making access to care even more convenient. Call us today to get the medical care your employees need.

Meet Our Providers

Eric Smith, MD

Dr. Eric Smith, MD is an occupational medicine specialist in Bellingham, WA and has over 42 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Oregon Health & Science University in 1981.

Denise Taylor, PAC

Denise Taylor, PAC is a physician assistant in Bellingham, WA. She is a physician assistant is a person who has successfully completed an accredited education program for physician assistant, is licensed by the state and is practicing within the scope of that license.

Irene Villalpando, APRN, FNP-C

Irene Villalpando, APRN, FNP-C is a Family Nurse Practitioner who moved from Arizona to the Pacific Northwest in 2022. She graduated as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Grand Canyon University in 2013. Irene has practiced in a variety of clinical settings but found her passion in Occupational Medicine. With over six years of Urgent Care and Occupational Medication experience, she continues to strive to provide exceptional care and assist injured workers in their recovery. In her spare time, Irene can be found exploring the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two Siberian Huskies, Finn and Aria. Living in the desert her whole life, she has ventured into new outdoor activities such as kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, and snow shoeing.

New To WhatCom Occupational Health?

Click the button to check out our Health Services or click the New Patients button to download our forms prior to your first visit.

Closing Notice:
Whatcom will be closing at 5 pm, Wednesday, November 27.
Business owner flipping a sign to say closed

Hours Of Operations

Saturday Hours 2024

Holiday Closures