Providers

Sai Alla, MD, is a board-certified anesthesiologist and pain management specialist at Axis Spine Center in Post Falls, ID. He brings the latest innovations in interventional pain management to new and existing patients and possesses expertise in internal medicine, pain management, and anesthesiology. Dr. Alla earned his medical degree at Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and completed residencies in anesthesiology at the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida and Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. He also completed a ACGME accredited fellowship in multidisciplinary pain management at Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Alla maintains his medical credentials by taking continuing education courses and constantly staying up to date with the latest breakthroughs in pain management care.

Dr. Alla strives to provide evidence-based, personalized and empathetic pain care that looks at the whole patient and addresses their lifestyle needs and limitations in the best way possible. He utilizes a multimodal approach to pain management that incorporates mental wellbeing, physical therapy, injections, non-narcotic based medications and possibly surgery if needed. In addition to alleviating pain and suffering, Dr. Alla strives to work with patients on improving their functional well being and getting them back to the things they enjoy most.

Outside the office, Dr. Alla loves spending time with his wife and one year old daughter. He is excited to build his career with Axis Spine Center and serve the Inland Northwest Community.

Axis Spine Center

Post Falls
1641 E Polston Ave Suite 101
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 457-4208
Fax: (208) 457-4197 

Orthopedic Sports Institute

Dr. Eric Benson is board certified in Internal Medicine. He attended medical school at Loyola University of Chicago in Maywood, Illinois and his residency at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. He has been practicing medicine for almost 25 years and has been in living and working in beautiful North Idaho ever since November of 2000, when he decided to make it his home. When Dr. Benson is not busy taking care of his patients he enjoys spending his time backpacking, hiking, bicycling and cooking.

Northwest Internal Medicine

1551 E Mullan Ave, Suite 101
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 262-2311
Fax: (208) 619-5038

Specialty Areas:

• Bariatric surgery
• Weight management and obesity treatment
• Nutrition for chronic disease
• Nutrition for kidney disease

Dr. Doug Blaty is a fellowship-trained spine surgeon with a special interest in minimally invasive techniques. His approach to spine care is based on the philosophy that every patient has a unique problem, and treatment should be focused on each individual’s specific complaints and symptoms. While the treatment for many patients may be non-operative, if surgery is chosen, Dr. Blaty always seeks to provide patients with the most effective and innovative options.

Dr. Blaty developed a special interest in anatomy and the spine at a young age through involvement in athletics and his own injuries. Since graduating from Lake City High School in 2001 as a Valedictorian, Dr. Blaty went on to receive his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington. He graduated as a PAC-10 All-Academic athlete in track and field, and was also a University of Washington Top-10 record holder in the decathlon and indoor heptathlon.

Receiving a Master of Science in biomedical sciences from Barry University, Dr. Blaty further built his knowledge in anatomy through hands-on cadaver work. He later attended medical school at Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he was a 2-time recipient of the Northwest Osteopathic Medical Foundation Scholarship. Awarded a research fellowship during medical school, Dr. Blaty continued his pursuit of musculoskeletal knowledge, focusing on orthopedic-based basic science research.

Dr. Blaty completed his orthopedic surgery residency training at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis, OR where he continued to maintain his primary focus on the spine, not only in his clinical training, but through multiple clinical research projects and presentations ranging from osteoporosis to degenerative spine conditions. He then completed his spine surgery fellowship at Twin Cities Spine Center, training with world renowned spine surgeons, while also leading research focused on lateral-access lumbar spine fusions. Through his training experiences, Dr. Blaty has developed a passion for less invasive spine surgery options, and always strives to advance spine care and patient outcomes.

Inland Northwest Spine

Phone: (208) 667-1376

Fax: (855) 644-2974

850 W. Ironwood Dr Suite 300
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

Dr. Tanya Blaty specializes in bone health, which consists of conditions such as osteopenia and osteoporosis. Dr. Blaty attended medical school at Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. She then went on to complete an internal residency program at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis, Oregon and an endocrinology fellowship at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Throughout her residency and fellowship training, she was very active in the bone field through creating a quality improvement project, participating in multiple research studies/publications related to bone health in orthopedics, attending and speaking at various osteoporosis meetings and conferences, and being selected to complete a preceptorship with world-renowned bone health experts at Columbia University.

Dr. Blaty is passionate about helping patients maintain their quality of life, which can be achieved with management of bone conditions, such as osteopenia and osteoporosis. Low bone density is an underappreciated disorder, and Dr. Blaty is very excited to help fill that treatment gap in the Inland Northwest.

When Dr. Blaty is not practicing medicine, she enjoys spending time with family, exercising, hiking, and boating.

Northwest Bone Health

Dr. Daniel J. Blizzard is a fellowship-trained Spine Surgeon specializing in comprehensive spinal surgical care ranging from minimally-invasive and motion-sparing techniques, to scoliosis and deformity surgery, and revision surgical treatment.

Dr. Blizzard was raised in Liberty Lake, WA and graduated valedictorian of his class from Central Valley High School. He then attended the University of Washington on academic scholarships from the Gates Foundation and the Washington NASA Space Grant, graduating magna cum laude with a degree in Bioengineering. Dr. Blizzard attended medical school at Yale University where he was selected as a Doris Duke Research Fellow for his work investigating osteobiologics and 3D-MRI in spine surgery. After medical school, he completed his general surgery internship and orthopaedic surgery residency at Duke University in Durham, NC. He then graduated from the combined Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Spine Surgery Fellowship at Emory University in Atlanta, GA performing complex surgical care at the Emory University Hospitals, Grady Memorial Hospital (the busiest Level 1 trauma center in the country), and the Atlanta Veterans Administration Hospital.

Dr. Blizzard has a specific interest in the development and utilization of new diagnostic and surgical techniques with the goal of reducing the pain, recovery time, and longterm morbidity associated with traditional spine surgery.  Throughout his training Dr. Blizzard pursued these interests, leading dozens of studies assessing the clinical efficacy of new minimally-invasive fusion techniques, motion-sparing techniques for cervical spine pathology, and the identification and prevention of complications in spine surgery.

Axis Spine Center

Post Falls
1641 E Polston Ave Suite 101
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 457-4208
Fax: (208) 457-4197 

Coeur d'Alene
7600 N Mineral Dr Ste. 450
Coeur d'Alene, ID. 83815

Phone: (208) 457-4208
Fax: (208) 457-4197

Meeka Bond, MSN, FNP-C, is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner who lives in, and has spent most of her life in North Idaho.

Meeka Bond received her Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Gonzaga University, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from Spokane Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Boise State and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Idaho.

In 2010, Meeka began her clinical career as a Registered Nurse at Newport Community Hospital and Health Services, a rural critical access hospital working in Acute Care, the Emergency Department, and Obstetrics. To expand her clinical capability she also worked in the Emergency Department at Kootenai Health, the busiest Level II trauma center in the state of Idaho. Working as a rural nurse has provided Meeka with rich experiences that motivated her to further her career as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Throughout her training at Gonzaga she obtained clinical experience in family medicine, pediatrics, public health, women’s health, cardiology and urgent care. Through these clinical experiences, it became clear that both her passion and professional interest was in family practice, with a special interest in women’s health and cardiology.

Northwest Women's Care

Brittney is an AANP-certified Nurse Practitioner. She is a native of North Idaho and graduated from Gonzaga University with her master’s degree in family medicine. She received her bachelor’s degree from LCSC and her RN degree locally from NIC. She has a passion to listen to and care for members of her community. Together, with her patients, she utilizes a holistic approach and includes lifestyle interventions to help her patients obtain their best health.

In her spare time, Brittney enjoys activities with her family that include anything outdoors-camping, boating, hiking, snowboarding. She also really enjoys being a cheerleader on the sidelines of all her children’s sports.

Kellie Breaux is a nationally certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She joins the practice with almost 20 years of nursing experience, with the last 8 years as a pediatric nurse practitioner. She has worked in multiple inpatient hospital settings and the emergency department. Kellie earned her BSN from San Diego State University in 2005, and her MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University in St. Louis, MO in 2016.

Kellie loves working with children, adolescents, and young adults to educate and empower them to be their best self, both physically and mentally. She enjoys helping families find ways to stay active and healthy. Her approach to healthcare uses both evidence-based practice and holistic care for an individualized approach, as no two patients are the same. She appreciates family and patient input and believes care is best achieved when everyone is on the same page.

She and her husband, Nathan, live in North Idaho with their 3 girls and love to be outside camping, swimming, boating, snowboarding/skiing, and everything in between. She also loves relaxing and watching a good movie (if she can stay awake).

Kellie is excited to join the practice and looks forward to providing excellent care for your children.

Dr. Scott Brown is a board certified orthopedic surgeon and is fellowship trained in functional reconstruction of the foot and ankle. He completed this specialized orthopedic training at the Michigan International Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Brown is a native of Maine who received a liberal arts undergraduate education in Minnesota and attended medical school in Iowa. He then completed his orthopedic residency training in Michigan and has relocated to the Northwest, bringing his specialty in foot and ankle reconstruction to the region.

Dr. Scott Brown is the only fellowship trained foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon in North Idaho. He is willing and able to treat acute or chronic injuries from bunions or claw toes to high arches or flatfeet deformities. From acute fractures about the foot or ankle to post traumatic arthritidies… all modalities of treatment will be considered and discussed.

Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine

3318 N. Grand Mill Ln
Coeur d’ Alene, ID 83814

Phone: (208) 664-2175
Fax: (208) 664-1226

Deanna Brunk is a highly experienced and compassionate Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) who joins Northwest Specialty Hospital as a dedicated Mental Health Provider. With a deep commitment to supporting the mental health and well-being of her patients, Deanna brings extensive experience from her previous roles in both the public and private sectors.

Deanna has been serving as a NIL TC Program Social Worker with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs since 2020. In this role, she has overseen the Home Health Aide (HHA) and Respite Services operations, providing continuous support and service management for Veterans. Her work includes collaboration with healthcare teams and community providers, crisis intervention, and program management, ensuring Veterans receive the highest quality care.

Prior to her work with the Veterans Affairs, Deanna held the position of Supervisor of Social Services at Kootenai Health from 2018 to 2020. There, she was responsible for performance evaluations, staff training, and educational program development, fostering a positive work environment while ensuring compliance and high-quality care delivery. Her leadership in quality assurance efforts and case management demonstrated her ability to guide teams in addressing complex patient needs.

Deanna began her career as a Medical Social Worker at Kootenai Health from 2013 to 2017, where she provided critical psychosocial assessments, crisis intervention, and counseling services to patients and their families. Her work in this role highlighted her ability to collaborate effectively with healthcare teams and community agencies to ensure comprehensive patient care.

Deanna holds a Master of Social Work from Boise State University and a Bachelor of Social Work from Lewis-Clark State College. She is also certified in Motivational Interviewing, a testament to her commitment to evidence-based practices in mental health care.

With strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and a passion for helping others, Deanna Brunk is an invaluable addition to the team at Northwest Specialty Hospital, where she continues to make a positive impact on the lives of her patients.

Mikal Burley, PA-C graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science from the University of Vermont. He obtained his Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies with a focus on General Surgery from Oregon Health and Science Univesity School of Medicine in 2013 and currently practices at Minimally Invasive Surgery Northwest.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

750 N Syringa St #103
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 415-0151
Fax: (208) 777-1591

Alex Caten, MD is an otolaryngologist at Northwest Ear, Nose and Throat in Post Falls, Idaho.

Otolaryngology is a medical specialty which is focused on the ears, nose, and throat. It is also called otolaryngology-head and neck surgery because specialists are trained in both medicine and surgery. An otolaryngologist is often called an ear, nose, and throat doctor, or an ENT for short.

Otolaryngologists complete up to 15 years of college and post-graduate training before practicing. This includes completing a four-year undergraduate degree, four years of medical school, five years of specialty training and a one-to-two-year fellowship for additional training in a sub-specialty.

Dr. Caten earned his undergraduate degree in degree in cell biology and neuroscience at home in Montana State and completed his medical doctorate at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans. Drawn to the unique balance of surgical and clinical skills that specialists in ear, nose and throat diseases, Dr. Caten chose to spend the next five years completing his residency at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta Georgia. While at the Medical College of Georgia, Dr. Caten became a member of the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Society and a recipient of a the top research award for his work on the use 3D printing for mandibular reconstruction.

Not everyone who practices otolaryngology is board certified. To legally practice medicine, a doctor is only required to be licensed by the state in which they practice. State medical licensure allows a physician to independently practice medicine but does not define one as a specialist to the public. Board certification adds a higher level of credentialing and validates expertise in a specific specialty or subspecialty based on training and assessment requirements. The examinations to attain initial board certification from the American Board of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, along with the renewal of certification at periodic intervals through the Continuing Certification program, ensure that its diplomates (board-certified physicians) meet or exceed the standards of the specialty and continue to do so throughout their careers. Dr. Caten is a board-certified diplomate of the American Board of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery,

Born in Cody, Wyoming and raised in Billings, Montana, Dr. Caten has mountain living in his blood. Dr. Caten, his wife Scottie and their two young children now call Idaho home and are thrilled to be back in the Pacific Northwest.

Northwest Urgent Care - Post Falls

750 Syringa St. Suite 100
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 262-2600
Fax: (208)-262-2700

Dr. Clark has been practicing urology in Coeur d’ Alene since 1990. He received his undergraduate training at Arizona State University, followed by graduate training at the University of California at Davis where he received his PhD in physiology. He served as a postdoctoral research fellow at the National Institutes of Health then returned for medical school to the University of California at Irvine. He completed residency training in surgery and urology at the University of Arizona in 1990 before joining North Idaho Urology. He is certified by the American Board of Urology, Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons. Dr. Clark provides a full range of urologic care including robotic surgery and laparoscopy. He has a special interest in voiding dysfunction and female urology and is a member of the Society for Urodynamics and Female Urology (SUFU). He is married with five children and enjoys outdoor activities and travel.

North Idaho Urology

980 W Ironwood Dr # 104
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

Phone: (208) 667-0621
Fax: (208) 664-1709

Dr. Michael Coats, MD is a Sleep Medicine specialist. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln and his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. Dr. Coats completed residencies in Neurology and Psychiatry as well as a fellowship in Clinical Neurophysiology at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington DC. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Sleep Medicine. Dr. Coats is a member of the American Academy of Neurology, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the American Psychiatric Association.

Holly is an AANP-certified nurse practitioner. She graduated from Gonzaga University with her master’s degree in family practice and received her BSN from Kent State University. Holly began her medical career as a medic in the United States Army. During this time, she earned her nursing degree, furthered her military career, and became a commissioned officer in the United States Navy. Holly was born and raised in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. She returned home with the desire to provide health care services to her community. Her military and civilian background has given her a breadth of experience that has enabled her to provide care in diverse healthcare environments. Her clinical experience is in family medicine, pediatrics, women’s care, and public health. She is looking forward to utilizing her experience and skills while practicing in a rural area. In her spare time, Holly enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and animals and volunteering with veterans.

Northwest Family Medicine - Athol

Calista Comstock PA-C is board certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Walla Walla University and Physician Assistant Certification from UC Davis in 2008. She has practiced in Urgent Care, Nephrology, Emergency Medicine and Addiction medicine prior to joining Axis spine.

Calista is a northwest native who loves to be involved in helping community members feel their best. She works in collaboration with Dr. Jessica Jameson.

Physician Assistant Certificate: University of California Davis

Axis Spine Center

Post Falls
1641 E Polston Ave Suite 101
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 457-4208
Fax: (208) 457-4197 

Coeur d'Alene
7600 N Mineral Dr Ste. 450
Coeur d'Alene, ID. 83815

Phone: 208-457-4208
Fax: 208-457-4197

Dr. Kristin Comstock is a dedicated and highly skilled Family Medicine Physician specializing in a broad spectrum of outpatient care, including pediatrics, palliative care, and more. She brings a wealth of experience to Northwest Specialty Hospital, having previously served at Providence Northeast Washington Medical Group and Mount Carmel Hospital in Colville, WA. Her expertise extends to various procedures, such as biopsies, wound care, joint injections, and osteopathic manipulative treatments. Dr. Comstock is deeply committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to her patients, ensuring they receive the highest quality of medical attention tailored to their unique needs.

Educational Background

Dr. Kristin Comstock holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology, providing her with a strong foundation in the life sciences. She pursued her medical education at the University of Minnesota, where she was actively involved in the Rural Physician Associate Program, gaining valuable experience in primary care settings. Dr. Comstock completed her residency at the Duluth Family Medicine Residency Program, where she not only honed her clinical skills but also engaged in teaching and research.

Dr. Comstock is deeply committed to providing comprehensive patient care, which is evident in her diverse clinical interests, from newborn care to osteopathic manipulative treatments. She is also passionate about education, having played a significant role in teaching and mentoring residents and physician assistants.

Her leadership roles include serving as Operations Director and Clinical Coordinator for the H.O.P.E. Clinic, as well as coordinating blood drives and participating in various clinic improvement committees. Dr. Comstock’s research has been published in reputable journals, and she has presented at numerous national conferences, contributing significantly to the field of liver regeneration and rural healthcare.

Outside of her professional life, Dr. Comstock enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her husband, son, and two dogs. She is an avid runner and hiker, and she loves to explore the outdoors through travel and camping. Dr. Comstock is also a creative spirit, engaging in various arts and crafts, baking, and cooking.
Dr. Comstock is excited to be a part of the team at Northwest Specialty Hospital, where she looks forward to continuing her commitment to excellence in patient care and contributing to the well-being of the community.

Bachelor of Arts in Biology, University of Minnesota

Duluth Family Medicine Residency Program

I’ve been blessed with great mentors during my medical training, including Dr. Robert Coles, Dr. Tom Huntsman, Dr. Dana Covey, Dr. Matthew Provencher, Dr. Marc Phillipon, Dr. Peter Millett, Dr. John Feagin and Dr. Richard Steadman. And yet, the most amazing and gratifying part of my orthopaedic practice is the education and insight awarded to me every day by my patients. They test and refine my skills and show me my blind spots and my shortcomings. I am always grateful to my patients for what they teach me.

I am committed to cultivating an exceptional team. They share my vision for excellence, compassion, and attention to detail. I know your experience of our practice is shaped by many moments when I am not present in person: scheduling visits, requesting forms and letters, seeking answers to basic questions, grappling with insurance issues and bills, etc. My team and I know that our patients deserve our availability for great service and timely responses to questions and concerns. We are always working towards a patient experience that we would appreciate for ourselves and our own families.

As a fellowship-trained sports medicine orthopaedic surgeon, I specialize in the treatment of shoulder, hip and knee conditions. Over the years I have been involved in numerous research projects and have published papers and book chapters about the care of sports injuries and the best techniques and treatments for them. You can view my CV here. Most of the surgeries I perform are done arthroscopically: using very small incisions and a camera or “scope” in your injured joint to facilitate repairs. I also perform open, traditional surgeries when they are indicated. My most common procedures include: rotator cuff repair, shoulder labral repair, clavicle fracture repair, hip labral repair, correction of hip impingement, ACL reconstruction, multi-ligament knee reconstruction, meniscus repair, cartilage repair or regeneration, patellar instability correction, and the routine treatment of fractures. I utilize both platelet rich plasma (PRP) and stem cells derived from your own bone marrow (BMAC) to augment healing when indicated

Dr. Dirks grew up in Coeur d’Alene, ID. He is a graduate of the University of Idaho in Moscow, ID with a BS in Biology and a minor in Spanish. He attended medical school at the University of Iowa Roy J. & Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine in Iowa City, IA. He completed the University of South Dakota general surgery residency program in Sioux Falls, SD. He finished his training with a fellowship in bariatric surgery at Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital in Portland, Oregon. During his fellowship he was trained in bariatric surgery with the Legacy Weight and Diabetes Institute and advanced foregut and colorectal surgery with The Oregon Clinic.

Dr. Dirks is board certified in general surgery by the American College of Surgeons.

Dr. Dirks resides in Coeur d’Alene, ID with his wife and four daughters. He enjoys skiing in the winter and spending time hiking, running, and time on the water in the summer.

Sydney Disselkamp is a Family Nurse Practitioner at Northwest Family Medicine in Post Falls, Idaho.

Sydney received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Franciscan University, in Steubenville, Ohio and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Family Nurse Practitioner certification from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. She has extensive nursing experience in emergency services, critical care, and family medicine.

Sydney is excited to incorporate her passion for holistic health and maximizing quality of life into her practice for families. In treating patients across the lifespan, she digs deeper to identify the root cause of conditions and symptoms in light of the integrated whole of the person. She particularly enjoys treating chronic conditions in the adult population. She offers compassionate and competent primary care to patients of all ages with a focus on preventative health.

Originally from southeast Washington State, Sydney now calls Idaho home. She is a mother of a very active toddler and can usually be found exploring the great outdoors of the beautiful Inland Northwest, baking sourdough, or figure skating.

Joshua Dolan is a dedicated and compassionate Physician Assistant (PA) at Northwest Specialty Hospital. With a strong foundation in respiratory therapy and a comprehensive education from the University of Washington Medex program, Joshua brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role.

Before becoming a Physician Assistant, Joshua served as a Lead Respiratory Therapist at Kootenai Health in Coeur d'Alene, ID, where he provided expert care and leadership in the Respiratory Department. His responsibilities included managing daily assignments, solving departmental issues, and acting as a liaison between the Respiratory Department and Physicians. He also has significant experience from his time at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, WA, where he managed mechanical ventilators, provided emergency care, and administered treatments for patients with chronic and acute respiratory conditions.

Joshua's clinical skills are complemented by his strong organizational abilities, teamwork, and keen clinical judgment. He is proficient in various essential medical procedures, including intubation, airway management, and tracheostomy care, making him a vital asset to the healthcare team at Northwest Specialty Hospital.

In addition to his professional expertise, Joshua is an active member of the Coeur d'Alene Triathlon Club and the American Association of Respiratory Care. His commitment to the community is further highlighted by his selection to represent the Health Science Department at Priority Spokane, where he delivered a speech on advancing educational opportunities for Respiratory Therapists.

Joshua holds a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Washington and a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy from Boise State University. He also earned an Associate of Arts and an Associate of Applied Science in Respiratory Therapy from Spokane Community College, where he was recognized for his academic excellence and leadership.

Axis Spine Center

Post Falls
1641 E Polston Ave Suite 101
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 457-4208
Fax: (208) 457-4197 

Coeur d'Alene
7600 N Mineral Dr Ste. 450
Coeur d'Alene, ID. 83815

Phone: 208-457-4208
Fax: 208-457-4197

Jamie Drake PA-C, MS is a board certified physician assistant who is happy to be practicing now in the Inland Northwest, after spending 15 years as a PA in Seattle, WA.

Jamie Drake received her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Washington State University and then completed her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies at Pacific University in 2005. She began her career as a PA with the Puyallup Tribal Health Authority, where she developed a wide range of skills in primary care and found that she really loved women’s health. She then worked at the Polyclinic and Swedish Medical Center in OB/GYN providing women’s health care to all ages and developing surgical skills to assist in the OR. In 2013, she moved to Virginia Mason Medical Center where she worked with a team of minimally invasive trained gynecologists and gyn-oncologists doing a large volume of laparoscopic and DaVinci robot assisted GYN surgical cases. She is very excited to be a part of the team at Northwest Specialty Hospital to provide this level of care to the community.

Dr. Adam Duke graduated from Creighton University School of Medicine, performed his OB/GYN Residency at Eastern Virginia Medical School, and then completed a 2-year Minimally Invasive GYN Surgery fellowship at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. He was the first fellowship-trained MIGS surgeon in the state of Idaho. He is a nationally recognized endometriosis expert and surgeon who lectures across the country. His other clinical expertise is chronic pelvic pain and the surgical treatment of prolapse and incontinence.

During his 7 years at Northwest Women's Care, Dr. Duke has seen patients from across the country and from around the world seeking his medical expertise.

Dr. Dunteman brings his philosophy of providing specialized care in shoulder, knee and ankle arthroscopy/ reconstruction to his practice at the Northwest Specialty Hospital. He is an Orthopedic Surgeon with fellowship training in sports medicine, shoulder and knee reconstruction, and arthroscopy. He earned his medical degree at Northwestern University Medical School, and also completed his residency at Northwestern University. Dr. Dunteman has authored multiple articles in orthopedic literature on shoulder and knee surgery, and has presented his findings at many professional conferences.

Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine

David Flores, MD, has been with North Idaho Urology since 2016. A graduate of the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center, David Flores, completed his residency in urology at the University of Kansas.

Stephanie is an ANCC certified family nurse practitioner. She graduated from the University of South Florida with her Master’s degree in 2004 and received her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Florida State University in 2000. She was born in south Florida and grew up in the Florida Keys. Her career in Nursing began with the opportunity to work in a variety of hospital settings including cardiac and orthopedic post surgical units.  While completing her Master’s degree she worked as an emergency room nurse at her local community hospital.

She has enjoyed providing primary care to families since 2004. Her approach to primary care focuses on education, preventive care, management of chronic conditions and helping her patients reach their health goals.

Stephanie and her husband fell in love with North Idaho over 20 years ago and recently relocated realizing their dream of living and raising their family in the Inland Northwest. Prior to moving to Coeur d’ Alene, she and her family spent several years as cruising sailors, living aboard and sailing along the Eastern Seaboard and Caribbean.  They enjoy all of the outdoor activities available here in the Inland Northwest including hiking, camping, skiing and snowboarding.

Northwest Family Medicine - Hayden

University of Idaho in 1984, and his PA certification from the University of Washington’s MEDEX program in 1996. Scott started his career as a Medical Technologist from Boise State University and working at St. Lukes Hospital in 1987. In 1996 he started his PA career at the Boise VAMC working in Renal/Internal Medicine. In 2000, he and his family moved to the Silver Valley where he has practiced Internal Medicine and Primary Care for 20 years. He also has experience in correctional medicine, military medicine, aviation medicine, industrial medicine, DOT medicine and urgent care. He worked for 8 years as Idaho’s only Aeromedical Physician Assistant for the Idaho Army National Guard from 1998 to 2006.

His wife has been working for Kootenai Health since 2005. His two daughters are pursuing careers as physicians, and his son is in the US Navy.

Scott enjoys everything outdoors, especially big game hunting, and competing in Ironman and Spartan competitions.

Dr. David Glassman is a board-certified, fellowship trained orthopedic spine surgeon at Northwest Specialty Hospital. He is an international speaker, published author, professor, and thought leader. As a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, he has received the highest level of training attainable in spine surgery. Dr. Glassman remains actively engaged in innovative research, embracing the latest innovations in surgical techniques and approaches including the use of augmented reality to provide remote integrated surgery. Over the course of his training and experience, he has developed a balanced approach to the use of surgical intervention and values the importance of non-operative care when customizing a comprehensive treatment plan with his patients designed to improve the quality of their lives.

Dr. Glassman attended the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, graduating with honors at the top 10% of his class. Following graduation, he served two tours as a Seahawk helicopter pilot and was awarded Pilot of the Year while serving as an Instructor Pilot for the United States Navy.

Dr. Glassman was then accepted into the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California, which has been recognized as one of the nation’s leading medical institutions and earned his Doctor of Medicine. He completed his Orthopedic Surgery Residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Virginia. Dr. Glassman then completed his spine fellowship at Harborview Medical Center at University of Washington in Seattle, where he was trained by world-class orthopedic surgeons on complex and minimally invasive surgical spine interventions.

As the Head of Spine Surgery at Naval Medical Center San Diego, Staff Spine Surgeon at VA Medical Center La Jolla, and Assistant Professor of Surgery, Dr. Glassman used his extensive experience to teach techniques and approaches to orthopedic care while mentoring the full range of students from medical school applicants to residents.

Dr. Glassman created a practice that combined neurosurgery and orthopedic spine surgery to enhance patient care while improving resident physicians’ education. His multidisciplinary treatment involved physical therapists, chiropractors, acupuncture providers, pain psychologists, and pain medicine specialists. His skillful surgical care allowed active-duty military members, including Navy special forces, to return to active duty and increased the quality of life and daily function of military retirees, veterans, and their families.

As a part of his humanitarian projects, Dr. Glassman has also been active in global health issues providing his care and expertise to those in underserved communities in the United States, Mexico, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. As part of medical missionary teams serving these areas, he provided care for complex spinal reconstructive procedures and shared his insights and experience as a surgeon while speaking at international symposiums on orthopedic spine surgery.

After more than twenty years of military service, Dr. Glassman is excited to be practicing in Idaho, where he can enjoy hiking and camping in the great outdoors with his wife and children.

Colleen Graey is a Nurse Practitioner at Northwest Specialty Hospital’s Axis Spine Center who specializes in Interventional Pain Management. She holds an undergraduate degree from Loma Linda University and a graduate degree from Sonoma State University. 

She spent the early part of her career practicing in northern California in a variety of clinical settings, including the VA, primary care, and emergency medicine, as well as a forensic examiner for sexual assault survivors. She moved to North Idaho in 2018, and has worked at several facilities providing palliative care and interventional pain management. She recently joined the NWSH healthcare family to be part of a quality team at Axis Spine Center. She comes to NWSH after more than two decades of practice.

When not compassionately tending to her patients, you will find Colleen out enjoying the great outdoors. She is an avid skier and enjoys numerous other activities and pastimes in her very active life: hiking, biking, kayaking, horseback riding – and even barrel racing! She also enjoys traveling the world. 

Dr. Bradley Griffitts M.D. is the Imaging Medical Director at Northwest Specialty Hospital with over 9 years of experience. Dr. Griffitts graduated from University of Kentucky of Medicine in 2014. He completed his Residency in Diagnostic Radiology at Providence Sacred Heart in 2019 and a Fellowship in Interventional Radiology at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 2020. Dr. Griffitts is an active member of the Society of Interventional Radiology.

Whitney is an AANP certified nurse practitioner. Whitney graduated in 2016 from Gonzaga University with her Master’s degree, and she received her BSN from Lewis-Clark State College in 2009. Whitney was born and raised in Kellogg, ID. While attending college, she worked as a wildland firefighter for the State of Idaho and US Forest Service, traveling throughout the western US on large fire assignments serving on hand, engine and helicopter crews.

Whitney has a wide range of nursing experience, having worked in a wide range of specialties such as obstetrics, pediatrics, critical care, PACU and emergency care. A majority of Whitney’s experience was spent in critical access emergency rooms with a staff of one doctor, one nurse and one CNA.

Whitney’s approach to primary care is centered around the patient’s lifestyle and achievable goals. Whitney’s approach also includes educating patients about various treatment options to their ailments as well as empowering them to make the best decision for their health employing a holistic medical management model. She provides these services to all patients 2 (two) years and older in the local area.

In her free time, Whitney enjoys riding horses, playing recreational volleyball and gardening.

Dr. Jacob D. Harris, MD, is a highly experienced radiologist specializing in Breast Imaging. He earned his medical degree in 2006 from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Grand Forks, ND. Following medical school, he completed a transitional year internship at the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine in Sioux Falls, SD, in 2007.

Dr. Harris then pursued a residency in Diagnostic Radiology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, NE, completing his training in 2011. To further enhance his expertise, he completed a fellowship in Body Imaging at the University of Utah School of Medicine in Salt Lake City, UT, in 2016. With his extensive training and years of experience, Dr. Harris is dedicated to providing exceptional care and precision in breast imaging for his patients.

Northwest Breast Imaging Center

750 N. Syringa St.
Suite 190
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: 208-770-3540
Fax: 208-770-3541

Heidi Herold, MD is a board-certified family practitioner with expertise treating all ages and conditions, and a dedication to preventative medicine. She earned her doctorate at University of North Dakota and completed her residency at UC Davis Mercy Redding Hospital in Redding, CA. She has lived in the community since 2017 with her husband and daughter. Dr. Herold enjoys reading, gaming, road cycling and spending time with her friends and family.

Dr. Caleb Hiebert is from the PNW but grew up in the Midwest. He completed his Bachelor of Science at the College of the Ozarks where he was a member of the basketball team and an assistant volleyball coach. Dr. Hiebert attended the University of Washington and earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy to pursue his passion for helping others through rehabilitation.

Dr Hiebert has received licensure in dry needling and has a pro-active balanced approach towards conservative management of orthopedic and spine conditions with a background in personal training in the Coeur d’Alene area.

He enjoys all things outdoors, including running, cycling, hiking and camping and is an active Ironman triathlete in our community. He is always willing to talk about the fur-babies he shares with his wife.

Dr. Kirk Hjeltness is an Emergency Medicine/Board Certified Urgent Care physician with more than 25 years in medical practice. He prides himself on his level of individual patient care — sitting down and listening to patients, while thoroughly explaining conditions and developing the most effective treatment plans for their care.

Dr. Mary-Alice Jaeger is a Sleep Medicine Specialist. She received her undergraduate and medical degree from the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Alberta. She completed her Sleep Medicine Fellowship at the Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Dr. Jameson received her medical degree from Michigan State University. Upon graduation, she went on to complete her internship at David Grant USAF Medical Center at Travis Air Force Base in California. She then spent four years as a United States Air Force Flight Surgeon.

Dr. Jameson completed her residency in Anesthesia at the University of Iowa College of Medicine in Iowa City. She then furthered her training by graduating from a Harvard fellowship in Pain Medicine at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, MA. She is board certified in both anesthesiology and pain management by the American Board of Anesthesiology. This is the only recognized board certification for pain management through the American Board of Medical Specialties. Dr Jameson is also the only physician in North Idaho who is board certified in obesity medicine.

Dr. Jameson, her husband Jason, and their three children moved here from Massachusetts. She enjoys playing soccer, snow and water skiing and all types of outdoor adventures. She has been a valuable asset and member of the community since 2013 and looks forward to continuing her commitment to excellent patient care at Northwest Pain Management.

Katie Jarstad, MS, PA-C is a board-certified physician assistant. Katie graduated with her Master of Science from Pacific University and received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Idaho. Katie began her career as a physician assistant in family medicine in 2005 and has an extensive background in urgent care medicine and industrial medicine.

Her career began in the Silver Valley, where she provided care to generations of families. While in the Silver Valley, she particularly enjoyed caring for families connected with underground mining, as she herself was raised in Elko, Nevada, with connections to mining and agriculture. She was awarded the National FFA Sheep Proficiency award while in college.

She likes her patients to feel they can comfortably communicate their concerns and ask any questions they may have. Her passion is caring for generations of families from birth to elderly. As a former cross country All-State runner and collegiate athletic trainer, she also enjoys working with student athletes and adolescent medicine.

Katie has lived in the community since 1998 with her husband, a local high school teacher at Timberlake High School. Katie enjoys spending her extra time boating, golfing, watching NASCAR, and spending

Undergraduate: University of Idaho
Graduate: Pacific University

Brian E. Kazmierski, PA-C graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science from the University of Washington School of Medicine. He obtained his Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies with a focus on General Surgery from the University of Nebraska Medical College in 2001. He has been with NW Digestive Center since September 2001 and continues to provide excellent care for each of our patients.

Dr. Keese is a board certified, fellowship trained orthopedic hand surgeon practicing at Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine in Coeur d’ Alene, ID.

Dr. Keese graduated with honors from Georgetown University Medical School and completed a five year orthopedic surgery residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center where he received the distinguished “Leonard Marmor Surgical Arthritis Foundation Award” for excellence in orthopedic surgery.

After residency, Dr. Keese completed a fellowship in hand and elbow surgery at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) where he perfected advanced techniques in arthroscopic wrist and elbow surgery, microsurgery, ligament and cartilage preservation, and reconstruction of the hand, wrist and elbow. A native of California, Dr. Keese practiced in Los Angles for five years before relocating to Coeur d’Alene in 2012.

Dr. Roland S. Kent is a fellowship trained Spine Surgeon. Fellowship training is the highest level of training available for spine surgical care in the United States. He specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery, alternatives to bony fusion including disc replacement, fracture care, bone health, sacroiliac (SI) joint disease, revision spine surgical care, and complex spinal disorders. Dr. Kent is excited to finally be back home. After graduating from Coeur d’Alene High school he received a Bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University and then joined the Navy. He attended medical school at Uniformed Services University in Bethesda, Maryland and then internship and residency at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. He graduated from the combined Neurosurgery and Orthopedic Spine Fellowship at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, Washington, where he performed complex surgical care at Harborview, the University of Washington, and Seattle Children’s Hospital. He returned to the Navy as the chief of Spine Surgery at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, where he taught spine surgery to resident physicians and managed the Navy’s highest volume interdisciplinary spine practice with physical therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, pain psychologists, physical medicine specialists and other spine surgeons. There, he built a comprehensive spine surgical practice specializing in cutting-edge technologies and time-honored surgical strategies. He presented academic papers at national and international spine meetings and helped to establish a standardized curriculum to teach young surgeons spine surgical techniques and principles.

Additionally, he provided expert spine surgical care to active duty military members, the elite Navy special warfare community, military retirees and their families. During his two decades in the US Navy, he served in Washington, DC, Virginia, Diego Garcia, Italy, Cuba, Afghanistan and finally in Spokane as a Navy reservist. In 2015, Dr. Kent joined the Rockwood Clinic in Spokane, Washington as the Spine Surgery Section Head where he helped develop the interdisciplinary spine surgical program at Rockwood Neurosurgery and Spine, integrating the efforts of surgical and non-surgical spine specialists.

Dr. Kent has returned to North Idaho as a co-founder of Axis Spine Center and the only fellowship trained spine surgeon in the area. He has a passion for returning patients to function through the careful utilization of non-surgical spine treatment strategies combined with the appropriate, evidence-based application of successful surgical interventions.

List of surgical specialties:

• Minimally invasive spine surgery
• Alternatives to bony fusion including disc replacement
• Fracture care
• Bone health.
• Sacroiliac (SI) joint disease
• Revision spine surgical care
• Complex spinal disorders

Northwest Occupational Medicine

Post Falls:

750 N. Syringa St. Suite 100-B
Post Falls, ID, 83854

Phone: (208) 262-2348
Fax: (208) 262-2700

Coeur d'Alene:

315 W. Dalton Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID, 83815

Phone: (208) 209-2060
Fax: (208) 262-2070

Dr. Jonathan King is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon, and the only surgeon in the area who has achieved a Sports Medicine subspecialty certification. He has extensive experience working with athletes, and completed a Sports Medicine fellowship at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles where he served as Assistant Team Physician for the Los Angeles Lakers, Dodgers, Kings, Galaxy, Avengers, and the USC Trojans. Dr. King currently works with a wide range of patients, from professional athletes to weekend warriors. His goal is to help patients of all ages and athletic levels return to their pre-injury activities at the highest level possible.

Dr. King has a particular interest in arthroscopic reconstruction of the shoulder, knee, and elbow. He uses minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques to treat rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability, ACL injuries, meniscus tears, cartilage damage, and elbow injuries. With arthroscopic surgery, patients generally have less pain and are able to achieve a full recovery more quickly.

Dr. King is the region’s leader in advanced shoulder reconstruction, performing a wide range of surgeries including total shoulder replacements, bone graft procedures for recurrent instability, and tendon transfers for non-repairable rotator cuff tears.

Dr. King is committed to surgeon education, and has instructed cadaver skills courses. He also has international volunteer experience, and looks forward to more opportunities in the future.

Dr. Kate Kuhlman-Wood is a fellowship-trained hand, plastic and reconstructive surgeon. She moved to Coeur d’Alene from Houston, Texas to partner with knee specialist Dr. Jeffrey Lyman.

Kuhlman-Wood is a native of the Inland Northwest. Born in Chewelah, Washington, she grew up in Otis Orchards. She earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing in Spokane through Washington State University and worked as a registered nurse at Sacred Heart and Valley Hospital before pursuing a career in surgery.

Dr. Kuhlman-Wood holds a Certificate of Additional Qualifications in hand surgery.

Dr. Ivanka Kuran leads the PT team at Axis Spine Center located in Coeur d’ Alene. She received her initial PT degree from the University of Alberta in Canada, then completed her doctorate at the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minnesota.

Dr. Kuran has specialty certifications through the APTA (Orthopedics) as well as a Certified Orthopedic Manipulative Therapist (COMT) through the North American Institute of Orthopedic Manual therapy. She has also received licensure in Dry Needling. Prior to these certifications she obtained her ATC designation working with running and biking athletes.

She is an instructor at several local PT programs as well as serving on PT and PTA selection committees. Dr. Kuran has specialty interests in orthopedics and advanced conservative spine care while working in close collaboration with the surgeons and pain management specialists at Axis Spine Center. She also has helped develop post-op spine protocols to serve as a regional resource for patients traveling to and from our center, for their rehab.
Dr. Kuran enjoys keeping active with running, biking, swimming and kayaking and volunteers with race organization and youth sports.

David Laisy grew up in Missoula, Montana. He earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Montana and then moved on to the University of Utah to obtain a Master of Physician Assistant Studies graduate degree. After extended stints working in Salt Lake City and then Spokane, David came to Northwest Specialty Hospital. He is a certified Physician's Assistant with over two decades of experience practicing emergency medicine. 

David was drawn to NWSH because of its great leadership and work environment. When not spending his time treating urgent care patients, David spends his time outdoors skiing, paddle boarding, lifting weights, or on two wheels – a dirt bike, road bike, or mountain bike.

Northwest Urgent Care - Post Falls

750 Syringa St. Suite 100
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 262-2600
Fax: (208)-262-2700

Ashley Lammers is a Physician Assistant with experience in both Neurosurgery and Pulmonology. She earned her bachelors degree from Ohio University and a Masters degree in Sports Medicine from the University of Oregon before obtaining a Master of Physician Assistant Studies at Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She provides comprehensive spine care and is passionate about helping patients to return to an active lifestyle.

Ashley enjoys spending as much time as possible outdoors, preferably on adventures with her husband and dog. As a recent transplant to the Pacific Northwest, she has enjoyed exploring all this area has to offer!

Jeffrey J. Larson, M.D. is a board certified neurosurgeon. Dr. Larson received his undergraduate training at the University of Michigan and a Master of Science Degree in Molecular Genetics at Wayne State University. He received his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. He continued his studies in Cincinnati to complete his surgical internship and neurosurgery residency training at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and the Mayfield Clinic and Spine Institute. Dr. Larson Specializes in brain surgery, spine surgery, neuro-oncology, neuro trauma and image guided neurosurgery.

Dr. Lebedevskiy received her undergraduate degree from the University of Washington, where she majored in Biology (Pathophysiology), as well as Spanish. Shortly after receiving her undergraduate degree, she attended Grand Canyon University where she was awarded a Masters in Public Health (MPH). Continuing her educational pursuits, she attended St. Georges University earning a Medical Doctorate (MD) degree, immediately followed by a General Surgery Residency at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, which is well known for its state-of-the-art level I trauma and burn center and boasts as the second busiest Emergency Department in the entire State of California. This residency also included training at Kaiser Permanente Fontana. She then went on to complete her subspecialty fellowship training in Advanced Gastrointestinal and Foregut Surgery at The Oregon Clinic/Portland Providence Medical Center, with focus on Minimally Invasive Foregut Surgery techniques, endoscopic treatment, as well as Bariatric Surgery.

Dr. Lebedevskiy is certified by The American Board of Surgery and is an active member in the American Foregut Society, Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, and American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons.

Dr. Lebedevskiy resides in Coeur d’Alene with her husband and two children. She enjoys being outdoors and can be found with her family skiing, hiking, boating or camping in her spare time.

Medical School: St. George’s University

Residency: Arrowhead Regional Medical Center

Fellowship: The Oregon Clinic/Portland Providence Medical Center

Certification: American Board of Surgery

Membership: American Foregut Society, Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons.

Gordon Luther is a board certified physician with 25 years of experience in emergency medicine. Since 2015 he has also served as co-medical director for the Kootenai County EMS System.   He enjoys the challenges of acute care medicine, particularly in cardiology and trauma care.  He enjoys teaching, and collaboration with his EMS colleagues, while working to provide excellent EMS care for our community.

Dr. Luther has also spent 2 1/2 years doing medical mission work in El Salvador and Bolivia.  He returns frequently to Bolivia with a team of physicians and firefighters from Kootenai County to teach trauma courses to our Bolivian medical colleagues.  Their nonprofit, Medical Educators for Latin America, CDA, has built a clinic and a school in rural Bolivia.

Dr. Luther grew up in the inland northwest, and has lived in Coeur d’Alene since 1999.  He did his undergraduate work at Occidental College, and medical school at University of Washington.  He enjoys spending time with his family, including attending his kids’ many activities.  He enjoys music, as well as many sports, including cycling, kayaking and scuba diving.

Northwest Urgent Care - Post Falls

750 Syringa St. Suite 100
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 262-2600
Fax: (208)-262-2700

Orthopedic Sports Institute

1233 N Northwood Center Ct
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

Phone: (208) 457-4211
Fax: (208) 773-1473

Ryan MacDonald, MD is a residency-trained Emergency Physician with clinical expertise in the management of illnesses or injuries that require immediate medical attention. Dr. MacDonald graduated Cum Laude with a B.S. in Biology from Gonzaga University and received his medical degree from the Mayo Medical School in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. MacDonald completed his internship in Pediatrics at the Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington, then spent two years as a Battalion Flight Surgeon, completing a combat deployment to Afghanistan with the 10th Mountain Division, where he led the medical section for MEDEVAC unit. He returned to Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington to complete three additional years of training in Emergency Medicine, and was selected to serve as Chief Resident. After completing his residency, he served as the Director of Emergency Services at the Evans Army Community Hospital at Fort Carson in Colorado Springs where he completed his service obligation to the U.S. Army. Dr. MacDonald then worked for five years in the Emergency Department at Sacred Heart Medical Center, a stroke center, STEMI center, and Level 2 Trauma Center, and served on the Board of Directors for Spokane Emergency Physicians. Dr. MacDonald is a published author in Emergency Medicine and has been involved with teaching resident physicians at Sacred Heart, as well as medical students at the University of Washington, Gonzaga campus.

In addition to his clinical duties, Dr. MacDonald assists his brother and father as owner/operators of MacDonald’s Resort. A family-owned marina in Bayview, Idaho, MacDonald’s Resort has been in business for 71 years. Dr. MacDonald’s children are the fifth generation of MacDonald’s to call Bayview their home.

Dr. MacDonald is delighted to join the Northwest Specialty Hospital team and looks forward to bringing excellent medical care to the community where he grew up. In his free time, Dr. MacDonald enjoys mountain biking, boating, and spending time with his wife, two young children, and grandparents who all live in Bayview.

Northwest Urgent Care - Post Falls

750 Syringa St. Suite 100
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 262-2600
Fax: (208)-262-2700

Adam A. Marfice is a board-certified Physician Assistant. He graduated with honors from Westminster College in Salt Lake City, Utah, earning a Bachelor of Science in Public Health with a special focus on epidemiology. Adam then attended Idaho State University where he received his Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Adam’s clinical interests include orthopedic spine and neurosurgery.

Adam is a native of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. In his spare time you can probably find him coaching high school lacrosse or fly fishing on one of the local rivers.

Northwest Specialty Hospital

1593 East Polston Avenue,
Post Falls, Idaho 83854

Phone: (208) 262-2300
Fax: (208) 262-2390

Dr. Richard N. Mattis, M.D., joined NWSH after working at the Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Washington. He grew up in North Idaho and, after earning his bachelor’s degree at Washington State University, he went on to earn his M.D. from the University of Washington School of Medicine in 1997. He has been in practice for over two decades. 

Dr. Mattis has expertise in family medicine, urgent care, emergency medicine, and the treatment of addiction, and is active in the medical community for working with addiction problems. Family medicine involves treating both children and adults for a variety of health conditions, as well as performing regular check-ups as a primary care physician. Dr. Mattis is licensed to practice in Maryland, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Oregon, and is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and the American Board of Preventive Medicine, Addiction Medicine. He is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, Idaho Academy of Family Physicians, and American Society of Addiction Medicine.

In his spare time, Dr. Mattis enjoys cycling, skiing, hunting, fishing, and generally getting outside and staying active.

Northwest Urgent Care - Post Falls

750 Syringa St. Suite 100
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 262-2600
Fax: (208)-262-2700

A Montana native, Dr. Douglas McInnis is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon who attended college in Helena, MT and medical school at the University of Washington. He completed his residency at the University of Nebraska and Creighton University in Omaha, NE and following residency completed a one year fellowship in joint reconstruction in Wellington, New Zealand. Dr. McInnis’ practice emphasizes joint replacements of the hip and knee.

Amber was born and raised in Coeur d’ Alene and graduated from North Idaho College with her Associate of Applied Science as a Physical Therapist Assistant. She brings her background in home health and sports rehabilitation to our team. She completed internships with several local clinics working with patients diagnosed with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis, dementia, orthopedic conditions and general deconditioning.

Amber enjoys hiking, snowboarding, swimming, weight training and reading in her spare time. She keeps busy with new house projects with her husband.

Axis Spine Center

Coeur d'Alene
7600 N Mineral Dr Ste. 450
Coeur d'Alene, ID. 83815

Phone: 208-457-4208
Fax: 208-457-4197

Ryan Morris, PA-C is a board-certified Physician Assistant. Ryan received his bachelor’s degree in health science from Boise State University and his master’s degree in physician assistant studies from the University of the Cumberland’s located in Kentucky.

Ryan is a North Idaho native and prior to attending his master’s program, he gained experience while previously working at Axis Spine. He is excited to return back to North Idaho and Axis Spine to aid in providing comprehensive spine care in his hometown. Outside of work Ryan likes to spend time with his family and friends.  His favorite hobbies include hiking, golfing, and spending time on the lake.

Axis Spine Center

Coeur d'Alene
7600 N Mineral Dr Ste. 450
Coeur d'Alene, ID. 83815

Phone: 208-457-4208
Fax: 208-457-4197

Sarah Murphy, PA-C is a board certified Physician Assistant who is joining the team at Axis Spine Center as a surgical PA. She is a Pacific Northwest native having grown up in southwest Washington and recently relocated to Rathdrum with her husband.

Before obtaining her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Pacific University, she worked in a multitude of settings which included mental health, obstetrics, and emergency medicine. Sarah is excited to work in both the clinic and operating room to help patients become healthier, happier versions of themselves with improved quality of life.

Outside of medicine Sarah loves the outdoors and enjoys fitness including running, yoga, and jiu jitsu. She also enjoys exploring new places with family and friends and looks forward to experiencing northern Idaho.

Dr. Newby is a native of North Idaho, growing up in Moscow and Hayden. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Idaho, and attended medical school at Midwestern University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Glendale, Arizona. He completed his residency in emergency medicine at Texas A & M in Corpus Christi, Texas. He is licensed to practice in Texas and Idaho, and is board certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine. Travis has been practicing medicine since 2012, most recently at Bennewah Community Hospital in Kellogg before coming to Northwest Specialty Hospital. 

When not providing top-notch care to patients visiting urgent care, Travis is an avid outdoorsman, traveler, and health enthusiast. Travis volunteers to help with local triathlons and charity races. He speaks Spanish fluently and has traveled across South America, including climbing Cotopaxi, the highest mountain in Ecuador. He also enjoys fishing, camping, backpacking, and rock-climbing.

Dr. O'Conner pursued her residency in Radiology at the University of California, Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, CA, finishing in 2012. She further specialized with a fellowship in Women’s Imaging at UC Davis, completed in 2013. Dr. O'Conner is dedicated to delivering precise and compassionate imaging care for her patients.

Northwest Breast Imaging Center

750 N. Syringa St.
Suite 190
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: 208-770-3540
Fax: 208-770-3541

Jeanna Padilla is a board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with an additional certification in pediatric primary care mental health at Northwest Pediatrics in Coeur d’Alene, ID. She has worked with pediatric patients for over a decade.

Jeanna obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. She also obtained her Pediatric Mental Health Specialist (PMHS) certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board. Jeanna began her nursing career in adult pulmonary hypertension and lung transplant. She transitioned quickly to pediatric sleep medicine and pediatric pulmonology prior to returning to school for her Master’s degree.

She is excited to join the Northwest family. She is passionate about pediatrics and loves being able to come alongside families to care for and empower them in areas of preventative health, child development, chronic and acute illness, mental health, and everything in between. She enjoys working with children from birth to 21 years of age.

She lives in Coeur D’Alene with her two daughters and her husband, a local worship pastor in Coeur D’Alene. In her free time, Jeanna enjoys spending time with her family, volunteering in her church youth group, running, biking, days at the lake, and eating pizza.

Dr. Peterson completed his urology residency at Oregon Health and Science University School of Medicine. In his free time you can find him with his wife and kids, skiing, and mountain biking.

Dr. Richardson grew up in Mammoth Lakes, CA. He attended the University of Nevada, Reno where he was a member of the NCAA Division I Men’s Alpine Ski Team. He completed medical school and General Surgery Residency at the University of Nevada School of Medicine. He then went on to complete an advanced surgical fellowship at the Minnesota Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, the only fellowship program in the United States or Canada accredited in Advanced Gastrointestinal/Minimally Invasive/Bariatric Surgery and Flexible Endoscopy.

Dr. Richardson is trained in the entire spectrum of benign and malignant digestive diseases. He has completed accredited fellowship training programs. Fellowship training is beyond what is required in standard residency training and is the highest level of surgical training attainable. Dr. Richardson has completed this rigorous training in order to become the highest level expert in the medical and surgical aspects of gastrointestinal diseases.

North Idaho Endoscopy and Surgical Specialists

Kaspar Sander, PA-C is a board-certified Physician Assistant who is joining Axis Spine Center to work both in the operating room as a surgical first assist and in the clinic where he will see patients for a multitude of spine related issues. He was born and raised in Spokane and is delighted to be back in the Pacific Northwest, along with his wife who is also from the area.

Kaspar attended Gonzaga University for his undergraduate studies where he graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology. He then moved to Arizona for PA school where he obtained a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Midwestern University, graduating at the top of his class. Kaspar previously worked for an orthopedic spine practice in Arizona and is excited to be continuing his career in orthopedic spine at Axis Spine Center.

Kaspar collaborates with Dr. Roland Kent, and is driven to provide patients excellent care in order to help improve their quality of life.

Axis Spine Center

Post Falls
1641 E Polston Ave Suite 101
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 457-4208
Fax: (208) 457-4197 

Coeur d'Alene
7600 N Mineral Dr Ste. 450
Coeur d'Alene, ID. 83815

Phone: 208-457-4208
Fax: 208-457-4197

Dr. Sarkis has been in practice in North Idaho since 1997. He has a special interest in the management of benign and malignant diseases of the breast and is a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons. Dr. Sarkis performs endoscopy and a variety of minimally invasive, as well as more traditional surgical techniques, to diagnose and manage diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Dr. Sarkis received his medical education at Saint Joseph University School of Medicine in Lebanon. He completed his surgical training at Saint Vincent’s Hospital and Medical Center of New York and at New York Medical College. He is board certified by the American College of Surgeons. He joined Minimally Invasive Surgery in 2001 to serve patients seeking state-of-the-art diagnosis and management of diseases of the breast and gastrointestinal tract. He offers minimally invasive, as well as more traditional surgical interventions for a variety of disease states.

Heather J Sarkis is a Physician Assistant Specialist in Coeur D Alene, Idaho. She graduated with honors in 2003. Having more than 17 years of diverse experience.

Jonathan L. Saxe, PA-C, DSc, graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Illinois. He then received a commission in the U.S. Army where he served as a military police officer before attending the Interservice Physician Assistant Program, earning him a Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska Medical Center.  He later went on to complete a general surgery fellowship at Brooke Army Medical Center in Ft. Sam Houston, Texas, and was awarded a Doctorate of Clinical Science with a focus in General Surgery from Baylor University.  He joined the surgical team at Northwest Specialty Hospital in 2019 after retiring from 20 years of active duty service.

Dr. Sims grew up in Coeur d’Alene and counts it a great privilege to practice Orthopedics in his hometown. He graduated from Coeur d’Alene High School and gained his undergraduate degree in Zoology from the University of Idaho. As a member of the WAMI program, he attended the University of Washington Medical School. He completed Orthopedic Surgery residency at the University of Washington in 2002. After residency he gained further specialized training in an accredited Sports Medicine Fellowship with Dr. Champ Baker of the Hughston Clinic at a specialty Sports Medicine Hospital in Columbus, GA. His goal was always to return home to the Coeur d’Alene area and serve his home community.

Having been a collegiate athlete, Dr. Sims has a particular interest in Sports Medicine. He understands firsthand what it is like to have an injury sideline your athletic dreams, yet also knows what hard work and determination can do in regaining your abilities. He endeavors to work with athletes to get them back to doing what they love.

Dr. Sims’ approach is to treat each patient as if they were a family member. Whether a young athlete or a grandparent that wants to stay active, he will do all he can to help with orthopedic issues.

Dr. Sims practices general orthopedics but has special interest in knee, shoulder and elbow surgery. He is board certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery.

When not practicing orthopedics, he enjoys spending time with his wife and five children.

Dr. Smith is an Idaho native and is very excited to come back home to Idaho to begin his practice. He is very eager to help his patients return to the active lifestyles that they enjoy.

Dr. Smith is a fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon with special training in Adult Joint Reconstruction Surgery. He completed his fellowship at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA where he learned minimally invasive joint replacement techniques as well as gained vast experience with robotic-assisted joint replacements. Prior to this, he completed his orthopedic surgery residency in northeast Ohio at Mercy St Joseph and St Elizabeth Health Centers in Warren and Youngstown, Ohio. He attended medical school at Des Moines University in Des Moines, IA, where he concurrently earned his Doctor of Osteopathic (D.O.) degree and his Master of Science in Anatomy degree.

During his undergraduate education at Boise State University, Dr. Smith was a member of the PAC-10 Conference champion wrestling team, and was named to the National Wrestling Coaches Association Academic All-America Team in 2007 before a back injury ended his wrestling career. He graduated with Cum Laude honors in 2009.

In his free time, Dr. Smith enjoys spending time with his beautiful wife, as well as being outdoors-hunting, fishing, camping, snowboarding, and even some rodeo.

In 2018, Dr. Spak further honed his expertise through a fellowship in Breast Imaging at the prestigious MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX. He is committed to providing accurate and compassionate care in breast imaging.

Northwest Breast Imaging Center

750 N. Syringa St.
Suite 190
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: 208-770-3540
Fax: 208-770-3541

Dr. Stackow earned a BS in pre professional studies from the University of Notre Dame in 1984, graduating cum laude. He then completed his medical education at New York University medical school, obtaining his degree in 1988. Following this, he completed his surgical residency at St. Vincent's Medical Center in New York City, graduating in 1993. Dr. Stackow is a board-certified Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

With a distinguished career spanning over 30 years, Dr. Stackow has been a prominent practitioner of medicine in North Idaho. For the majority of the past 3 decades, he specialized in managing trauma and surgical diseases of the abdomen, breast, and hernias. More recently, he has taken on the role of a surgical hospitalist, currently serving as the manager of the hospitalist service at Northwest Specialty Hospital.

Outside of his medical profession, Dr. Stackow cherishes time with his three adult children, Tessa, Madeline, and Tucker, and enjoys engaging in various outdoor activities in North Idaho, including wake surfing, camping, golf, and skiing.

Dr. Stowell is a fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder and elbow conditions and procedures including arthroscopic and minimally invasive surgery. While joint revision and joint reconstruction are areas of interest, he also has extensive practice in trauma and fracture management as well as, general orthopedic procedures.

After attending medical school at Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Stowell continued gaining his internship and residency at the University of Pittsburgh and is fellowship trained in shoulder and elbow orthopedic surgery. Over the course of his career, he has contributed many writings and articles as well as received awards for residency and leadership.

In addition to English, Dr. Stowell speaks both Spanish and Papiamento which he interpreted during his time as a humanitarian aide.

Dr. Kevin Strait is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in addition to being board certified in pulmonary disease. He specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases that affect the lungs and respiratory system.

Dr. Strait provides comprehensive care for a spectrum of pulmonary diseases such as asthma, bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, pneumonia, pulmonary fibrosis, and sarcoidosis.

Dr. Strait received a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, WA, in 1993. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathy degree in 2001 from Midwestern University – Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Glendale, followed by an internship and residency at the University of Minnesota, Department of Medicine. His fellowship in Pulmonary and Critical Care was also at the University of Minnesota.

Dr. John Swanson, MD is an aerospace medicine specialist in Post Falls, ID. Dr. Swanson completed a residency at Wright State University School of Medicine. He currently practices at Northwest Urgent Care and is affiliated with Northwest Specialty Hospital. He accepts multiple insurance plans. Dr. Swanson is board certified in Aerospace Medicine.

Northwest Urgent Care - Post Falls

750 Syringa St. Suite 100
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 262-2600
Fax: (208)-262-2700

Dr. Tacia is board certified in Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery by the American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AOBOO-HNS) and is committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive medical care for disorders of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck.

Dr. Tacia was born and raised on Whidbey Island, just outside of Seattle in the scenic Pacific Northwest. As an outstanding scholar and athlete, she attended Central Washington University on an academic and softball scholarship where she graduated with honors. Dr. Tacia went on to earn her Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine from Des Moines University and dual specialty training in both Otolaryngology head and neck surgery, as well as facial plastic surgery at the Henry Ford Macomb Hospital in Detroit, Michigan.

Dr. Bryan Thompson is a leader in the Podiatric field, specializing in all aspect of care involving the foot and ankle. After graduating from Brigham Young University, Dr. Thompson earned his degree from the California College of Podiatric Medicine. He completed his residency in Foot and Ankle reconstruction at the Franciscan Foot and Ankle Institute in Federal Way Washington before beginning his practice. Dr. Thompson’s practice includes: simple and complex foot and ankle surgery; all aspects of conservative care, including injections and custom orthotics; minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery; foot and ankle trauma care and treatment of pediatric foot and ankle disorders. He boasts of marrying way above himself, having the best staff in the inland northwest, and sporting bright and entertaining children.

Jennifer Torok provides new patient consultations and recommendations for multidisciplinary treatments, interventional therapies, and autonomous medical management. She works closely with our spine surgeons and interventional pain management physicians to collaboratively provide the best comprehensive treatment plan for each individual patient.

Jennifer received her Masters Degree in nursing from Gonzaga University in 2005 and has been a practicing nurse for over twenty three years. She is board certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners as a family nurse practitioner, and is an active member of the Obesity Medical Association.

Family Nurse Practitioner, Master of Science in Nursing, Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA

Axis Spine Center

Post Falls
1641 E Polston Ave Suite 101
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 457-4208
Fax: (208) 457-4197 

Coeur d'Alene
7600 N Mineral Dr Ste. 450
Coeur d'Alene, ID. 83815

Phone: 208-457-4208
Fax: 208-457-4197

Dr. Udell loves helping people. His passion to elevate those around him and to treat both patients and colleagues like his family have been the driving factor behind his numerous successes and accolades (National 5-Star Patient Satisfaction awards in 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021). Although he greatly enjoys caring for general urologic patients, his special interest and training in minimally invasive robotic surgery allows him to perform cutting-edge surgeries to assist in the treatment of prostate, bladder, and kidney cancer.

Dr. Udell was raised in the Inland Northwest (McCall, Idaho, and Swan Lake, Montana). He was lucky to be able to spend his upbringing on the lakes and in the mountains. These experiences shaped him and drove his desire to return here with his family. Dr. Udell began his urology practice in Raleigh, North Carolina in 2015 and was an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Urology at The University of North Carolina, as well as Assistant Professor of Surgery at the Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine. He is certified by the American Board of Urology, and a member of the American Urological Association and the Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA).

Dr. Udell, his wonderful wife Erika, and their two amazing daughters relocated back to the Inland Northwest in 2022 with their French Bulldogs (Hank Williams Jr, and Dolly Parton). They have loved being back in the Northwest, and are grateful to serve this community. When not seeing patients, he can be found playing guitar (poorly), with his family on the lake wakeboarding and surfing, or in the mountains snowboarding.

Nate is a board-certified Physician Assistant who specializes in Emergency Medicine. Nate has been practicing medicine for 17 years. He spent his first two years in Urgent Care. For the last 15 years he has been practicing in local Emergency Rooms.

Nate received his bachelor’s degree at Whitworth University in Sports Medicine. He received his Physician Assistant degree at Red Rocks College in Denver, CO. Nate also attended St. Francis University where he completed the Master of Medical Science program.

Nate is a North Idaho native and enjoys spending time in the outdoors hunting, fishing, and camping with his wife and four very active kids. He is very excited to be joining Northwest Specialty Hospital to continue his career caring for our North Idaho community.

Northwest Urgent Care - Post Falls

750 Syringa St. Suite 100
Post Falls, ID 83854

Phone: (208) 262-2600
Fax: (208)-262-2700

Patricia Vieth, PA C received her Masters degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Idaho State University in 2007. She is board certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants. Patricia has gained 10 years of experience in neurosurgery and spine, including consultations, diagnosis, and formulation of treatment plans to address spine pathology. She also has extensive history working as a first assist in a variety of complex spine surgeries. She will work closely with Dr. Kent, Dr. Blizzard and the interventional spine team at Axis Spine to provide the best comprehensive evaluation and treatment for each patient at Axis Spine.

Outside of the office, Patricia enjoys spending time with her family and friends. As a mom of 3, she is often attending sporting events and school functions. She is a native to North Idaho and loves the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Dr. Wester received his medical degree from University of Kentucky in 1993 and completed his residency in Family Medicine at University of Wyoming in Casper. He has been living and practicing in the Coeur d’ Alene area since 1996. Dr. Wester and his wife Birgid have three sons, Harris, David and Max. He enjoys spending time with his family, history and farming. Dr. Wester enjoys the privilege of providing family medicine to the communities of North Idaho. He very much appreciates the confidence extended to him by his patients.

Marty Williams is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Northwest Pediatrics in Coeur d’Alene; ID. Marty is native to the north Idaho area and has been practicing in pediatrics for over 15 years.

Marty is passionate about pediatrics. He enjoys partnering with families in preventative care, mental health, chronic, and acute conditions as they navigate the development of their child. Marty works with patients from birth through young adulthood. He is excited to join the NWSH family.

Marty received his B.S in nursing from Boise State University in 2004 and went on to work in critical care as a Registered Nurse. He received his M.S. in Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner certification in 2007 from Sonoma State University in Rohnert Park, California and joined a pediatric practice in Chico, California. In 2009, he moved home to Idaho and has provided pediatric care to children and adolescents in North Idaho since then.

He and his wife Desiree have five children and two grandchildren. Marty enjoys medical missions and serves on the board of directors for Send Hope Now a non-profit organization that operates 15 orphanages throughout India. He loves health and fitness and works to promote the benefits of exercise and healthy nutrition to his patients and their families.

Dr. Stefan Yakel DO is a highly skilled and board-certified Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, specializing in minimally invasive spine procedures. With a fellowship training from the renowned Twin Cities Spine Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Dr. Yakel is well-versed in the latest techniques and advancements in the field. 

Dr. Yakel’s philosophy is to isolate the true cause of the patient’s pain and direct a targeted approach of treatment that will minimize the amount of surgery needed. Often this results in no surgical intervention.

Prior to his fellowship, Dr. Yakel completed his Orthopedic Residency in Corvallis, Oregon, where he developed a special interest in minimally invasive spine techniques. 

Currently, Dr. Yakel practices in Coeur d' Alene alongside his esteemed colleague and friend, Dr. Doug Blaty. Together, they provide exceptional Orthopedic Spine care to their patients.

Outside of his profession, Dr. Yakel enjoys spending quality time with his wonderful wife and two children. He also stays active by engaging in various physical activities, including snow skiing and water sports. 

Dr. Yakel's commitment to excellence and passion for his work make him a trusted and respected Orthopedic Spine Surgeon who is dedicated to improving the lives of his patients.

Laura Young, MD, FACOG is a board certified, fellowship trained gynecologist who earned the ABOG Focused Practice Designation in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery. Dr. Young has clinical expertise in the management of irregular bleeding, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and pelvic pain. She specializes in minimally invasive surgery, including laparoscopic hysterectomy, myomectomy, advanced endometriosis, fertility-sparing procedures, operative hysteroscopy, and vaginal surgery. Dr. Young received her medical degree from the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine and performed her residency in Obstetrics & Gynecology at University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland. She completed AAGL fellowship training in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery at Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, Indiana. Dr. Young is a published author in obstetrics and gynecology and her work has been presented at international meetings. She is an instructor for laparoscopic techniques including suturing and contained tissue extraction.

As an undergraduate she competed for Dartmouth on the NCAA Division I women’s rowing team. Dr. Young advocates for improving women’s health care; she is a member of the ACOG Committee on American Indian and Alaska Native Women’s Health and previously was a Global Health Scholar in Ecuador.