By Christina Lords | Editor-in-Chief
“I always have thought that EMS — paramedics and EMTs — have been underutilized in that larger health care system delivery model because of that connection to community.” - Mark Babson, of the Ada County community health paramedic program
Dave Walls is a community paramedic at Ada County Paramedics, one of few EMS agencies that adopted a program to embed paramedics to help patients manage chronic health conditions. (Photo by Kyle Pfannenstiel/Idaho Capital Sun)
HEALTH
These paramedics do more than emergency calls. Idaho wants more of them. This grant could help.
By Kyle Pfannenstiel
And as Idaho seeks to tap into millions of dollars in federal grant funding through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act dedicated to rural health care access, Wayne Denny, the leader of Idaho’s Bureau Emergency Medical Services, or EMS, wants to use some of it to expand community health EMS providers into rural communities across Idaho.
And he hopes it can be a critical infusion to Idaho’s EMS system, which is experiencing a shortage amid funding struggles. Some also see promise in expanding community paramedics in a largely rural state that has long had a doctors’ shortage.
Many of Idaho's public housing authorities are still weighing the benefits of a federally proposed rule to allow independent housing authorities to enforce “work requirements, time limits, and supportive service frameworks for able-bodied, non-elderly adults receiving assistance.” (Photo by Abigail Gerstein/Idaho Capital Sun)
GROWTH + AFFORDABILITY
Idaho public housing authorities approach proposed work requirements with caution
By Abigail Gerstein
Only one of Idaho’s public housing authorities has signed on to a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development coalition to consider adding work requirements to its subsidized housing programs. Other authority leaders say they remain skeptical about the benefits of a work requirement.
If you or someone you love is experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm, call or text 988. Resources are also available through Find Help Idaho, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, local healthcare providers, and employee assistance programs. (Photo by Getty Images)
COMMENTARY
In the wake of tragedy, Idahoans can find strength and healing in community. Here’s where to turn.
By Beth Markley
Seeking support from a counselor, physician, faith leader or friend is an act of courage, not weakness, writes guest columnist Beth Markley.
MORE REGIONAL AND NATIONAL NEWS FROM US
ICYMI
Shining a light on other Idaho politics reporting
Note: Some links may lead to stories behind a news organization's paywall
Boise State Public Radio: Study: Wildfire likely culprit in reversal of ozone pollution gains
Coeur d’Alene Press: Hayden Lake steps up fight against invasive threats
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