Living in Idaho -
Idaho is an incredibly diverse state in terms of topography.  "It’s been said if you flatten all the mountains in Idaho, the state would be the size of Texas. Rivers, mountains and farmland dominate the state’s landscape. The panhandle has emerald green hillsides, timbered mountains and pristine lakes. Central Idaho is covered with jagged peaks. The Snake River Plain, with its wide open vistas, irrigated farm lands and vibrant cities forms the character of Southern Idaho."  (Idaho Department of Commerce).


While there is much wilderness and open land throughout the state, there are also wonderful communities of varying size and character.  There are eight state colleges and universities and a dozen private colleges and universities.  (see list HERE) 


While people here highly value the towns and cities in which they live, many also appreciate the vast range of wilderness and recreation available. For some that means hunting and fishing.  For others it is skiing,  mountain biking,  white water raft trips, or simply a good game of golf.


There are a number of fairs and festivals worth exploring, or for the more adventurous, a trip to one of the many natural hot springs may be in order.


In the summer months many communities throughout Idaho have terrific Farmer's Markets where people gather to purchase locally grown foods.  There is also a growing number of Idaho  wineries.

Most of Idaho is designated as medically underserved area and/or health professional shortage area which means there is a critical need for more doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals in positions throughout Idaho, particularly in our rural areas.

If you are looking for a rewarding career in a drop dead gorgeous place to live, consider entering the primary care workforce in Idaho.  


Take some time to explore the links to learn more about Idaho.  Or, better yet, come see it for yourself.  Whether it is a thriving city or a quiet farming town you are looking for, it's all here in the gem state.


Official Website of the State of Idaho
Idaho Department of Commerce
Idaho Fish & Game
Idaho Golf Courses
White Water Rafting
Ski resorts in Idaho

Clark Fork River in Bonner County - Photo by Molly Fay

 
The Rural/Underserved Opportunities Program (R/UOP) continues to be one of the most important experiences for students in the WWAMI Medical Education Program. R/UOP provides an exciting and challenging four-week, elective immersion experience for students between their first and second years of medical school. R/UOP placements are scheduled between May and August. Each student works sideby-side with a physician in a rural or urban underserved community found throughout Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana and Idaho (WWAMI), and spends approximately 40 – 50 hours a week in the field with their preceptor. During their time away from their preceptor, they are busy developing a community research project.

In the coming weeks we will spotlight some of the physician preceptors throughout Idaho who have made this program such a success.