Lavik, General Surgeon, To Join McKenzie Health

Watford City-Dr. Gillian Lavik, general surgeon, will be joining our surgical team on Oct. 2! A native of Rugby, ND, Lavik has a deep appreciation for rural healthcare. She graduated from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences in 2010, completing pre-medical education at Macalester College in Minnesota. Her internship and residency were completed at Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown, NY, an affiliate of Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. During her graduate year, Dr. Lavik served as chief resident. Among her background, she brings past research in safety on rural roads having presented to the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma in 2014 - "Preventing Farm Equipment Related Injury on Our Roadways: Where are We Now?"

Her advanced skill sets include experience in surgical oncology, breast surgery, abdominal surgeries, and minimally invasive options for a wide range of procedures. About joining McKenzie Health, Dr. Lavik said, "Healthcare in rural North Dakota is a passion of mine. I grew up in Rugby and supporting small hospitals is an area I love, where I can really give back. Watford City is such a welcoming environment, and I can't wait to meet more people!"

Lavik is married with three children. She and her family enjoy all that the outdoors has to offer – sailing, water sports, and hiking. In her free time, she also enjoys sewing and crafting. She and her husband are also remodeling a farmhouse.

Pete Edis, CEO, states, "We are excited to add Dr. Lavik to our incredible team of surgeons! She is intuitive, personable, and extremely talented. Having her experience in-house will enhance what we are already able to offer to patients. Dr. Lavik's rural roots make her very relatable."

Appointments in the Specialty Clinic can be made by calling 701-444-8730. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Lavik!