Category Archives: Policy

Pain and Suffering

Posted on February 14, 2019 by ddxdx

Idaho can’t say we’re winning the war against accidental opioid deaths, but we’re fighting a good fight. As you can see, the numbers are climbing. If you want a very in depth and excellent analysis of the situation, read this … Continue reading →

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The Idaho Way?

Posted on February 7, 2019 by ddxdx

Brad Little has made many statements about how we need to do Medicaid Expansion “The Idaho Way”. The first time I heard it I smiled. The second time I smirked. The third time, I rolled my eyes. C’mon Brad, just … Continue reading →

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Loyalty: Medical This Time

Posted on January 24, 2019 by ddxdx

I really do value loyalty, despite the things I say about it both last week and this. It’s just that I think we need loyalty to values or ideals, not people or groups. I hate taxes as much as the … Continue reading →

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State of the State

Posted on January 2, 2019 by ddxdx

  When Governor Little addresses the legislature Jan 7th with his budget address he’ll be hard pressed to beat Butch Otters charm or delivery. I hope he feels no pressure to. But Brad will have a chance to strike a … Continue reading →

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Merry Christmas Idaho

Posted on December 26, 2018 by ddxdx

Ever get a present that made you really happy? Ever get one that disappointed? Well, the Idaho legislature got a present from the voters November 6th they didn’t really like: Proposition 2, Medicaid expansion. This citizen initiative passed in 29 … Continue reading →

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Now What?

Posted on December 19, 2018 by ddxdx

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 →

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Suicide in Idaho

Posted on December 12, 2018 by ddxdx

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 →

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My Ex is getting Married

Posted on December 5, 2018 by ddxdx

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 →

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Owning our Health

Posted on November 15, 2018 by ddxdx

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 →

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Rural Health Values

Posted on October 31, 2018 by ddxdx

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 →

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