Emily Sangston | OWNER & CEO

My journey to medical billing has followed an interesting path. I graduated with a BS in biochemistry and minors in mathematics and psychology. 

After college, I joined AmeriCorps and went on to enjoy a wide range of jobs and volunteer positions:

• Created educational programs at a children’s science museum

• Worked with foster children experiencing developmental disabilities

• Conducted neuroscience research at the University of Oregon

• Volunteered with domestic violence survivors at Lane County’s District Attorney’s Office

I have always had a heart to serve those who live with mental health challenges, and I began my billing career at a Portland methadone clinic. I quickly learned both mental health and acupuncture billing, as well as the intricacies of Medicaid. I began Doug Fir Billing in 2018 and have expanded my billing knowledge to serve all of our clients with excellence.

Part of my vision and passion for Doug Fir is to provide sustainable jobs for parents who want to be home with their kids without sacrificing professional development. When my oldest was born, I met countless new moms struggling to make the decision between inflexible careers that they loved and their desire to spend time with their babies. My medical billing career has allowed me to be with my three young children while also filling a crucial need in the medical industry. And I’m thrilled to offer that same opportunity to other parents.

In my free time, I play with my kids, take boxing lessons and spin classes, root for the Blazers, and help at my kids’ schools. I love puzzles, snowshoeing, craft beer, and spontaneous road trips. All perfect pastimes in the Pacific Northwest!

Tiffany Brogan | ACCOUNT MANAGER

I had been working in education for 12 years when I decided that it didn’t fit my current phase of life. As the mom to two girls, I was ready for a more flexible job that would suit my family’s needs. 

I began working for Doug Fir as a contract biller, drawn to Emily’s knowledge and work ethic. I so appreciated Emily’s flexibility and understanding of what goes into juggling a family with work that I accepted a permanent job as a member of her team!  

As a lifelong learner, I have a Bachelor’s degree in business with a minor in international economics, along with a Masters degree in teaching. Before joining Doug Fir, I had my own billing practice focused on speech therapy. 

When I’m not handling billing for our clients, I am an avid runner. I have a 50-mile ultra-marathon and many traditional marathons under my belt. And I’ve completed triathlons, relays, and numerous other races. To make these events even more special, I usually run them with my amazing older brother.

I enjoy trying new recipes, baking with my daughters, and exercise of any kind. I also love learning and creating and have taken up welding yard art creations. But my absolute favorite pastime is watching my children grow into awesome human beings. 

Supporting our Doug Fir clients is a privilege because they are passionate about what they do. Their commitment to their patients throughout the pandemic has been inspirational to all of us.

I love working for Doug Fir because Emily fully supports us as we balance family and work lives. She also encourages us to ask questions so that we are always learning and doing what is best for our providers. It’s an honor that she trusts us to help her business thrive

Alexis Taylor | ACCOUNT MANAGER

I started in the medical field during college when I worked at an assisted living home. I fell in love with it and treasured the feeling of being part of a world of healing.

After moving to Oregon, I worked as a receptionist at the Portland Clinic where I witnessed many different areas of care. My favorite was the ENT part of the practice, and I even had the privilege of learning to assist with in-office surgeries. 

Our family moved to Utah while my husband finished school, and I worked for the radiologist at the local hospital. I enjoyed finding small ways to help patients feel safe and comfortable during those scary moments.  

After our second son arrived, we moved back to Oregon, and I knew it was time to be a stay-at-home mom. I wanted to be involved with all of our kids’ everyday moments. Once my third baby was born, I decided to go back to school for medical coding, finishing the program and passing the exam at 36 weeks pregnant with my fourth baby! 

Trying to find a job that allowed me to be an attentive, present mom and a dedicated employee seemed impossible. Until I found Emily and Doug Fir Billing! Working with this team allows me to balance life with my family and a rewarding job in the medical field. It’s a win-win!

If I’m not working for our clients, I may be treasure hunting because, full disclosure, my heart races when I see a garage sale sign!

In my spare time I love to garden, go running, camp with my family, ride bikes with my kids, paint, bake, and create. My happy place is being in nature. Whether I’m in the mountains of my home state of Colorado or on the stunning Oregon beaches, I’m at peace.

Laurie Crawford | ACCOUNT MANAGER

I have been doing medical administrative and billing work for five years after taking a training course through the American Academy of Professional Coders. I received my certification as a professional coder in 2015 and love the flexibility this career gives me and my family.

Medical billing is the perfect mix of challenging and rewarding as we get to do our version of detective work to unravel billing problems and mysteries. I love that our clients can trust us to work diligently behind the scenes, ensuring that they receive compensation for their time, energy, and expertise.

It’s wonderful working for Doug Fir because small businesses are so vital. It feels good to give back to our community and make a difference. And Emily has made it possible for me to experience that elusive work-life balance. Having the flexibility to work from home while tending to my family’s needs is invaluable. 

Outside of work hours. I love hiking, baking, and exploring new places with my husband and two children. I’m thankful for a career that lets me enjoy this family time.

Rachel Crowder | PATIENT CARE COORDINATOR

I have spent the last ten years of my career in various roles that led me to the medical field. Sales, management, customer service, and work within the pharmaceutical industry have all been part of my work life. To add to my BA from the University of Oregon, I decided to go back to school to become a nurse. I am currently in an accelerated BSN program and work as a CNA/Medication Aide, as well.  

Working at Doug Fir has been such a pleasure! I get to be on the other side of the medical world and help patients and providers in a new way. It also is flexible enough to work with my schedule as a mom and student. 

Outside of work, I love cooking, hiking, and wine tasting. Recently, I have gotten into riding our Peloton. It’s so fun! I also love spending as much time as possible with my husband and son. We are all huge Oregon Duck fans, and we can’t wait for football season each year.