Dr. Russel Nichols, MD, a proud Heppner local, has been practicing medicine for over 25 years. He earned his bachelor's from Oregon State University in 1994. He then attended OHSU School of Medicine, where he received his Doctor of Medicine (MD). After graduating, he completed his residency in Spokane, WA.  

Dr. Nichols takes a community-rooted approach to healthcare, prioritizing the community’s overall well-being and meeting individuals where they are. “I am excited and ready to serve my patients, right here at home. I understand firsthand how challenging it can be to find rural providers, and I am deeply committed to helping to improve access to healthcare in Morrow County.”  

While he provides full-spectrum primary care, he is passionate about family and sports medicine. “I like to focus on the whole person across their lifetime. I want to empower them to live their lives at their full potential and to become the healthiest version of themselves.”
In his spare time, Dr. Nichols enjoys running, hiking, hunting, and fishing. He is also actively involved in the community through coaching.