The Float team is comprised of Advanced Practice Providers that “float” to the primary care or urgent care teams to fill in when providers are out of the clinic on PTO, village travel, or sick.
They all have diverse experience in both family medicine and emergency care.
Elena Larranaga is a dedicated Urgent Care and Float Lead Provider at Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC).
Originally from Ohio, Elena’s roots took hold in North Pole and Fairbanks, where she has spent most of her life. She pursued a career as a Physician Assistant – Certified (PA-C) after working in women’s health as a certified medical assistant. Elena’s commitment to serving her community led her to join Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center (CAIHC).
Outside of work, Elena enjoys staying active by working out, traveling, camping, and fishing. Family is a cornerstone of Elena’s life; she has been married for 10 years and is a proud mother of three daughters. Their family is completed by their beloved pup, Remi.
Elena’s decision to work at TCC was driven by her desire to give back to the community where she grew up. TCC’s mission resonated with her, and she saw an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in the interior.
What Elena loves most about working at TCC is the sense of belonging and camaraderie among colleagues. She views TCC as her second home, emphasizing the strong bond that exists within the organization. Elena appreciates TCC’s commitment to employee wellness and work-life balance, making it a rewarding and fulfilling place to work.
Mindona is a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner who serves as part of the Float team at Tanana Chiefs Conference.
Born and raised in Fairbanks, Alaska, Mindona has deep roots in the community she serves. She obtained her advanced nursing education from Frontier Nursing University and has been an integral part of CAIHC since graduating with her FNP degree.
Beyond her professional commitments, Mindona finds fulfillment in caring for her five children, three grandchildren, and her beloved goldendoodle. Traveling also holds a special place in her heart, allowing her to explore new places and create lasting memories with her family.
Driven by her Athabascan heritage, Mindona was drawn to TCC to work closely with the Athabascan and Alaska Native communities. Her cultural connection and personal understanding enrich her interactions with patients, fostering trust and rapport.
What Mindona loves most about working at TCC is the opportunity to serve the Native people of Alaska. Her work is not just a job but a meaningful way to give back to her community and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Katie Cammack is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner (NP) and valued member of the Provider Float Team at Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC).
Originally from Nevada, Katie’s journey in healthcare began with her education in nursing. She pursued further studies at Samuel Merritt University, UCSF, and UNR, where she honed her skills and knowledge to become a Nurse Practitioner.
Katie brings with her a wealth of experience in pediatrics, having worked in both primary and specialty care settings, both inpatient and outpatient, as well as in Urgent Care. Her diverse background has equipped her with the expertise to provide comprehensive care to patients of all ages.
Outside of work, Katie’s greatest joy comes from spending time with her family. Whether it’s fishing, camping, or simply enjoying each other’s company, she finds bliss in their presence. While she once enjoyed Latin dancing, her focus has shifted to her growing family, which includes her husband, two children (currently 3 and 6 years old), two dogs, and two bunnies. Katie is grateful for the support of her extended family, who bring joy and warmth to her life.
Katie was drawn to TCC by the opportunity to work with and for the people of Alaska, embracing the chance to serve in rural healthcare. She has a passion for cultural diversity, having previously worked in Spanish-speaking communities, and is excited to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the Alaskan Native culture.
Since joining TCC, Katie has found fulfillment in her work, describing it as humbling, rewarding, and the best job she’s ever had. She treasures the relationships she has built with her patients and colleagues, recognizing them as people with wonderful hearts and a shared commitment to compassionate care.
Samuel (Sam) DeBlauw is a physician assistant who works as a float provider between the Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center (CAIHC) family practice teams and urgent care. He also occasionally fills in at the Cancer Care & Infusion Center as well as the Mary C. Demientieff Clinic in Nenana.
He grew up in Healy, Alaska, and graduated from the University of Washington’s MEDEX Northwest physician assistant program in August 2014. Additionally, he holds a bachelor’s degree in clinical health services from the University of Washington. After a short stint in urology, Sam began his career with Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) in the summer of 2015 and worked for four and a half years in Nenana. He also filled in intermittently at the CAIHC urgent care during that time. After accepting a position with a local medical oncology specialty practice for a couple of years, Sam returned to TCC’s team in the summer of 2022. He is now in his seventh year with TCC and is grateful for the opportunities he has had with this growing organization.
Sam has a love for Interior Alaska and serving its people using his medical skills and experience. When not in a clinic, Sam enjoys spending time with his wife and children and planning their next adventures together.
Suemin Chi is a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) serving as part of the Float Team at Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC).
Suemin has deep roots in Fairbanks, Alaska, having been born and raised in this vibrant community. Her educational journey began at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences. Seeking further knowledge and expertise, she pursued a second bachelor’s degree in Nursing Science from South Dakota State University through an accelerated program.
Driven by her passion for healthcare, Suemin continued her education at Morningside College, where she obtained her Master’s in Nursing, specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Prior to this, she gained valuable experience as an Emergency Department trauma nurse for six years, honing her skills in critical care.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Suemin finds joy in various activities outside of work. She is an avid traveler, enjoys spending quality time with her two Pembroke Welsh Corgis named Cooper and Claire, indulges in reading, plays the cello, and practices the art of crocheting.
Suemin was drawn to TCC by the unique opportunity to work as part of the Float Team, seamlessly transitioning between family medicine and urgent care. She values the organization’s commitment to promoting a healthy work-life balance and appreciates the ongoing educational opportunities and potential for career growth provided by TCC.
What Suemin loves most about working at TCC is the supportive work environment and the opportunity to collaborate with exceptional colleagues. She is dedicated to providing high-quality care to the community she calls home and looks forward to making a positive impact on the lives of her patients.
Roger Estelle is a dedicated member of the Health Services team at TCC serving as a Physician Assistant – Float. Born in Angeles City, Philippines, Roger grew up in various parts of Alaska, primarily in Fairbanks and Kodiak.
Roger earned his Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Washington in 2022 and holds a Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences from the University of Alaska in 2015.
With prior experience as a Medical Assistant, Phlebotomist, and Emergency Medical Technician, Roger brings a diverse skill set to his role.
Outside of work, Roger is an avid gamer, enjoys traditional and digital art, and has a passion for music, particularly playing the ukulele and alto sax.
In his personal life, Roger is a devoted husband and father to two young children, as well as caretaker to seven pet birds. With family and friends scattered across the state, Roger values connections and community.
Roger’s decision to join TCC stems from his calling to primary care, which was solidified during a rotation with TCC as a student. He was drawn to TCC’s commitment to serving a large area within Alaska and its sense of community.
As a new provider, Roger looks forward to making a positive impression on the community and building strong patient relationships as a float provider. Drawing from his past experiences, he emphasizes the importance of kindness and patient-centered care in the medical field, aiming to address his patients’ concerns with empathy and understanding.