Our Providers
Francine Brooks , MD, FACEP, CWSP.
Dr. Brooks has over 43 years of medical experience. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania in 1976 and earned her medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1980. After completing residencies in Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine, she became board certified in both fields. She held a faculty position at Albert Einstein College of Medicine before serving as Chairman of Emergency Medicine at Vassar Brothers Medical Center, where she also became Medical Director of the Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center. After retiring in March 2023, she moved to Sedona, Arizona, and joined Verde Community Healthcare as a Primary Care Physician to address the shortage of medical care in the area. Dr. Brooks is passionate about patient-centered care and serving her community. She enjoys yoga, hiking, weight training, and is a member of Friends of the Forest.
Robert Murphy, PA-C
Robert Murphy PA-C received his Bachelors' Degree in Science majoring in Biology at University of Wisconsin Stevens Point in 1985. He completed his master's in Biology in 1999 at Minnesota State University Mankato. In 2001, Robert finished Physician Assistant Studies at Des Moines University Osteopathic Medical Center and became a board-certified Physician's Assistant.
In over 20 years as a Physician's Assistant, Robert worked in a wide variety of clinical practices including Family Practice, Urgent Care, Urology, Orthopedics, and Occupational Medicine. He relocated to Arizona six years ago and now resides in Cottonwood. He previously worked at an urgent care center before joining Verde Community Healthcare.
Jeannie Bennett, Frontdesk Coordinator
With over 30 years of experience in the medical field, Jeannie Bennett brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. A native of Arizona, she now resides in the Verde Valley with her husband and their dog, Akira. Outside of her professional life, Jeannie enjoys staying active with fitness, hiking, and reading, and she values spending quality time with her family.
Sara Mickelson, Nurse
I received my Nursing Degree through Yavapai College. I was born in Cottonwood, Arizona and am blessed to raise my 2 daughters here with my wonderful husband. We enjoy the mountains all the way down to the desert in this great state. I have 10 years of experience working as a preschool teacher and my patience is unending as is my love for helping others. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love working in my garden and playing the piano. I am excited to serve my community as the Nursing Administrator at Verde Community Healthcare.
Laura Hillyer, Medical Technician
Laura relocated to the Verde Valley six years ago, drawn by the desire to be near her family. Before making this move, she spent several years residing in Southern California, where she served as a Licensed Vocational Nurse across various healthcare settings, including acute care, sub-acute, pediatrics, palliative care, and Hospice.
Married and blessed with four children, Laura's family spans a wide range of ages, from 27-year-olds to 5-year-old twins. Her passion for helping others has been evident since her youth, and she finds immense fulfillment in providing care and support to those in need.
Now an integral part of the Verde community team, Laura is committed to delivering compassionate and competent care to her patients. She is grateful for the opportunity to serve her community and looks forward to making a positive difference in the lives of those she encounters.