Category Archives: Idaho Politics

Now What?

It’s been over eight years since the Affordable Care Act (ACA) became law with NO republican votes. Since, we have had many political campaigns propped up on “Repeal!”, then “Repeal and Replace!” and now we have the decision of a … Continue reading

Posted in Health Care, Policy | Comments Off on Now What?

Suicide in Idaho

A man I knew well and considered a friend killed himself this last week. The feelings that wash over us survivors might mirror the feelings of the victim: anger, sadness, despair, failure. I will admit to all those. I imagine … Continue reading

Posted in Health Care, Policy, Reflection | Comments Off on Suicide in Idaho

My Ex is getting Married

It was front page news in my town that a family practice clinic was being purchased by the local hospital. Before I reflect on this, you need to know I was once a partner in the clinic but left over … Continue reading

Posted in Health Care, Policy | Comments Off on My Ex is getting Married

Humbly Thankful

The turkey and dressing leftovers may be gone but the time for thankfulness is not over. It’s a blessed day in Idaho when the sun sets westward and we draw comfort that it will rise again. Such blessings are symbolized … Continue reading

Posted in Health Care, Idaho Politics, Reflection | Comments Off on Humbly Thankful

Rip off the Band-aid

  I hear the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare wants to wait until January 2020 to start enrolling people in the newly expanded Medicaid eligibility passed under Proposition 2 this last election. I’m sorry, but this is a pressing … Continue reading

Posted in Health Care, Idaho Politics, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Rip off the Band-aid

Owning our Health

The campaign to expand Medicaid health insurance eligibility in Idaho brought some broad health policy questions to the forefront. I am thankful we are having these discussions now; we have put this off for a long time. One of the … Continue reading

Posted in Health Care, Idaho Politics, Policy | Comments Off on Owning our Health

Hold on to the Reins

  By the time this is printed the November 6th election will be over and half the electorate will think the world will end and the other half will think their prayers have been answered. And the half that didn’t … Continue reading

Posted in Gazette Column, Idaho Politics | Comments Off on Hold on to the Reins

Rural Health Values

Some are arguing that rural Idaho hospitals need Medicaid Expansion to survive. I’m arguing we will need more than a simple yes vote on Proposition 2 on the November ballot. That’s just an important first step. For American healthcare to … Continue reading

Posted in Health Care, Idaho Politics, Policy | Comments Off on Rural Health Values

Backbone

I watched Brad Little and Paulette Jordan debate on a Boise TV channel. You could catch it online. It was clear to me Brad knows healthcare issues, but I’m detecting some bad symptoms in his approach. It’s a big issue, … Continue reading

Posted in Health Care, Idaho Politics, Policy | Comments Off on Backbone

Appointments

With the recent forced resignation of a Fish and Game Commissioner, it’s worth looking at the appointment power the governor has here in Idaho. The Idaho Senate confirms many gubernatorial appointments as required by law. Some appointments and the boards … Continue reading

Posted in Idaho Politics, Policy | Comments Off on Appointments