Features

From telehealth to training: North Idaho’s growing health care resources

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Dive into this month’s North Idaho Business Journal as we celebrate them and showcase a few of the many reasons why they deserve both.

  • August 26, 2025

Medicaid cuts threaten health care access in Boundary County

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Rural communities in North Idaho could face significant reductions in access to healthcare in the coming years as the region’s clinics and hospitals brace for major financial losses tied to upcoming changes in Medicaid.

  • By NED NEWTON/NIBJ Staff Writer
  • August 26, 2025

There's a 'time and place' for fitness watches, experts say

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Around 32% of Americans use some sort of wearable fitness device, according to Market.us data from 2024, with smart watches leading the pack in high-tech health innovation.

  • By HAILEY HILL/NIBJ Staff Writer
  • August 26, 2025

Clinics provide medical care to employees

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Over the last couple of years, employers such as Kootenai County and the Hagadone Corporation have opened new clinics for their staff to use, offering health care without copays or deductibles.

  • By CAROLYN BOSTICK/NIBJ Staff Writer
  • August 26, 2025

North Idaho College offers programs for in-demand health care jobs

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With health care roles in high demand throughout the Panhandle and beyond, North Idaho College offers an array of healthcare-related training courses that put students on the path to build careers in the medical field.

  • By KAYE THORNBRUGH/NIBJ Staff Writer
  • August 26, 2025

Physician feature: Dr. Derek Dirks

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Dr. Derek Dirks is a general surgeon and the director of bariatric surgery at Northwest Specialty Hospital in Post Falls.

  • By DEVIN WEEKS/NIBJ Staff Writer
  • August 26, 2025

Lifehouse Healthcare: A relational approach to health care

When I started Lifehouse Healthcare, I initially thought it was because of a desire to “have my own practice,” a goal that had been fostered over the years working as a nurse practitioner. In achieving this goal however, what has become emphatically clear is a desire for a relational approach in healthcare. I don’t view my clients as “patients,” but rather as unique human beings that I am blessed to partner with for their healthcare goals. Clients that have blessed me with the opportunity to work with them will testify of a commitment to the cultivation of a relationship in our healthcare approach. In my office, there are often tears as well as smiles… and opportunities to pray with clients.

  • By CARLO OROZCO/NIBJ Contributing Writer
  • August 26, 2025

Telehealth in rural Idaho, an improved way of health care

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From the tranquil presence of nature to the warmth of local gatherings and the generalized affordability, rural Idaho has plenty to offer. The picturesque beauty of all that the land has to offer is just one of the reasons to settle down and build roots in the Idaho Panhandle.

  • By CHLOE COCHRAN/NIBJ Staff Writer
  • August 26, 2025

NAMI Far North’s unique approach to solving the area's mental health crisis

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That journey led Mehra and her family to find the National Alliance on Mental Illness, a grassroots organization focused on bettering the lives of people who suffer from mental illness.

  • By JACK FREEMAN/NIBJ Staff Writer
  • August 26, 2025

Friends, neighbors power North Idaho's economy, communities

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Small businesses are the backbone of North Idaho. They are run by friends. They were launched by neighbors. They coach the youth soccer, lacrosse or T-ball team. They serve on the local city council. They are members of local civic groups and are the friendly face taking your order at a local festival or fundraiser.

  • July 29, 2025

Innovators finding creative 'sweet spot' in North Idaho

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Coeur d’Alene is proving to be a “sweet spot” for innovation. The Innovation Collective, comprised of over 60 offices and 40,000 square feet between two “dens” on Lakeside Avenue, has become a community hub for startup founders and locally based companies that are scaling up on national levels.

  • By HAILEY HILL/NIBJ Staff Writer
  • July 29, 2025

Financial setup key to success for small businesses

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There are as many approaches to business as there are entrepreneurs, but for any small business owner, it's critical to get one thing right.

  • By KAYE THORNBRUGH/NIBJ Staff Writer
  • July 29, 2025

The economic backbone of North Idaho — small businesses

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North Idaho is unique in its offerings, providing a blend of nature and entrepreneurial opportunities to residents seeking ownership. Many individuals have taken hold of the advantages that the area has to offer, opening shop to cater to the ever-growing communities within Idaho’s five northern counties.

  • By CHLOE COCHRAN/NIBJ Staff Writer
  • July 29, 2025

Where healing is the adventure

Hospice of North Idaho completes their 13th Camp Kaniksu Grief Camp
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Hospice of North Idaho (HONI), annual Camp Kaniksu wrapped up another meaningful weekend at the end of June, providing comfort, connection, and healing for children navigating the loss of a loved one. This year, 31 campers ages 6 to 16 gathered for a weekend of shared experiences, fun activities, and heartfelt support all in the peaceful setting of HONI's campus and Camp Lutherhaven.

  • July 29, 2025

Building new business doesn't have to be a bother

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After six years teaching business management and entrepreneurship at North Idaho College, assistant professor Dean Miles said he gets a lot of common questions. How do small businesses find money?

  • By CAROLYN BOSTICK/NIBJ Staff Writer
  • July 29, 2025

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