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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Idaho | Expat Exchange
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11 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Idaho

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 12, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Idaho is generally on par with the rest of the United States. Idaho has a wide range of medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialty care centers. Emergency services are available throughout the state, and ambulances can be called by dialing 911.

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How are healthcare services Idaho?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Idaho, they replied:

"Idaho offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, mental health services, and preventive care. The state is home to a number of hospitals and medical facilities, including St. Luke's Health System, which has locations in Boise, Meridian, and Twin Falls, and Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls. Other notable medical facilities in the state include St. Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise, Kootenai Health in Coeur d'Alene, and Portneuf Medical Center in Pocatello. These hospitals and medical facilities provide a variety of services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation," remarked one expat in Idaho.

What are medical services in Idaho like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Idaho, they replied:

"Idaho offers a wide range of medical services to its residents. The state has a variety of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities that provide quality care to patients. Idaho also has a number of specialized medical centers that offer specialized treatments and services for specific conditions. Additionally, Idaho has a number of rural health centers that provide care to those living in rural areas. Idaho also has a number of mental health centers that provide counseling and other services to those in need," said one expat.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Idaho?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Idaho can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and provider. Generally, health insurance premiums in Idaho are higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be higher than in other states. However, there are a variety of health insurance plans available in Idaho, and some of them may be more affordable than others. Additionally, Idaho residents may be eligible for government subsidies or other assistance programs to help offset the cost of health insurance," said one expat living in Idaho.

What are emergency services like in Idaho?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Idaho wrote:

"In Idaho, emergency services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 911 from any phone. The operator will ask for your location and the nature of the emergency, and will then dispatch the appropriate emergency services to your location," commented one expat living in Idaho.

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Boise is the largest city in Idaho and has the largest selection of medical specialists in the state. It is home to a number of major hospitals, including Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center and St. Luke's Boise Medical Center, as well as multiple specialty clinics. Other cities in the Treasure Valley region, such as Meridian, Nampa, and Caldwell, also offer a wide variety of medical specialists. Ruby Valley, located in southern Idaho, is home to numerous health centers, including the Ruby Valley Medical Center, which specializes in internal medicine, orthopedic surgery, and physical therapy. The Pocatello area also offers multiple specialty clinics, including Idaho Mental Health and Physical Medicine, as well as Idaho Orthopedics and Sports Medicine," remarked one expat in Idaho.

Are common prescription medications available in Idaho?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Idaho. Most pharmacies in the state carry a wide variety of medications, including those for common conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression. Many of these medications are available over the counter, while others require a prescription from a doctor. Additionally, Idaho residents can access mail-order pharmacies to purchase their medications," wrote one expat.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Idaho?

"Medical facilities and medical care in Idaho have advanced due to modern technology, providing high-quality care. There are numerous health care facilities throughout the state, ranging from large medical centers and rural hospitals to specialty clinics and small practitioners. Advanced treatments and technologies are available, and Idaho has made significant investments in research and education to improve health care. Additionally, Idaho has a high rate of health insurance coverage, ensuring that most residents have access to the care they need," said one expat.

As a foreigner living in Idaho, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Idaho, you will have access to public healthcare. Idaho's public healthcare system is administered by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and provides a variety of services, including Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Idaho Health Insurance Exchange. The services provided by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare are designed to ensure that all Idahoans have access to quality healthcare, regardless of their income or immigration status. The public healthcare system in Idaho is comprehensive and includes a wide range of services, from preventive care to long-term care. Additionally, Idaho has a number of community health centers that provide free or low-cost healthcare services to those in need," remarked one expat in Idaho.

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Idaho if they have access to public healthcare in Idaho. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Idaho. Many healthcare providers have had to adjust their services to accommodate the increased demand for care, while also ensuring the safety of their patients and staff. Telehealth services have become increasingly popular, allowing patients to access care from the comfort of their own homes. In addition, many healthcare providers have implemented additional safety protocols, such as temperature checks and mask requirements, to protect their patients and staff. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the healthcare system in Idaho has remained resilient and continues to provide quality care to its citizens," remarked one expat living in Idaho.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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