Let's take a step back from the upcoming travel season to acknowledge something important: if you're going to explore the limits of our awesome state, you need to be in good health! Over 90,000 patients a day are admitted to U.S. hospitals and finding the one that will not only provide excellent healthcare but make your stay and/or visit as stress-free as possible often plays a huge role in recovery. Is the one your doctor recommended the best hospital in Idaho for you? Doing your research on the place where you will receive care is very important.
There are dozens of factors that go into determining the best places to get medical care, but the U.S. News & World Report declares that these 10 hospitals are the best in the state. The methodology ranks hospitals based on 16 adult "specialty" treatments and 10 pediatric ones that are a combination of data and reputation. However, since no national ranking surveys have rated Idaho beyond its largest metro facilities, we've also done our best to search out award-winning facilities and the best hospitals in Idaho.
Scoring high in patient safety, commitment, and overall doctor-to-patient ratios, St. Luke's Regional Medical Center in both Boise and Meridian has been repeatedly ranked among the Top 100 hospitals in the country. It's also often considered the best hospital in Boise, Idaho. It also achieved the highest rating possible in 9 different procedures and is nationally ranked in pulmonary care.
At Kootenai Medical Center you'll find quality care for North Idaho, an expanding emergency facility, and an environment so welcoming that the hospital has been ranked as the best large health workplace. You'll even find free car seat training at this location.
3. Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center - Boise
While Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical doesn't rank nationally in any particular specialty, it gets top scores for its elderly patient care, with high marks in Geriatrics, Orthopedics, Cardiology, and more.
West Valley Medical Center in Caldwell is the only hospital in the state to be a Five-Star recipient in Gall Bladder Surgery and Prostatectomy, and for multiple years running. New technology upgrades and improved surgery facilities enable this hospital to better serve Canyon County and make national lists doing it.
Repeatedly ranked as one of the top facilities in the nation in terms of patient care, the Northwest Specialty Hospital in North Idaho is all about the pre and post-service for its patients. That means low waiting times, caring employees, excellent facilities, and personalized follow-up care. It's received a Women's Choice Award for two years running.
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6. St. Luke's Magic Valley Regional Medical Center - Twin Falls
The Twin Falls St. Luke's Magic Valley Regional Medical Center scores above average in overall patient care, with its specialties being heart attack care, heart failure care, and pneumonia care. If you or someone you love is dealing with a cardiac issue, St. Luke's is a good choice to get the help you need.
7. Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center - Idaho Falls
As the largest facility in the region, the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls plays a vital role in getting top-notch care to Eastern Idaho, including the use of the Idaho Cancer Center, 3D Mammography technology, and the Ask-A-Nurse Hotline.
When it comes to choosing the right healthcare facility, communication is essential to understanding your diagnosis, and your treatment or payment options. The Portneuf Medical Center in Pocatello ranks much higher than the national average when it comes to doctor-patient interactions, doctor explanations, and overall courtesy and respect throughout the treatment navigation process. Bedside manner is an integral part of the healthcare process, and this hospital does very well in this area.
The acute-care St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Lewiston rated better than the national average for both the overall hospital experience and a weighted average of nine individual measures, including Communication, Care Transition, and a low level of readmission.
Overall satisfaction is through the roof at Mountain View Hospital in Idaho Falls, with over 82% of patients recommending this hospital--a 62/100 rating.
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While we've chosen these 10 as the top in the state, there are dozens of small-town facilities that haven't made headlines but are still well-equipped and well-staffed to take care of you. Be sure to do your own additional research to find which hospital is most likely to get you back up on your feet ASAP! Have you or one of your loved ones ever had to go to one of these hospitals for inpatient or outpatient care? Let us know if you had a positive experience with these facilities in the comments section.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
If you love to spend time near Idaho’s rivers and streams, like I do, you must be prepared for potential threats. While many of us are aware of what dangerous plants like Poison Ivy look like, there is another that is easily confused with other plants but is extremely deadly. Hemlock, better known as Poison Hemlock, is growing all throughout Idaho and if you plan to spend some time outdoors this summer, it’s wise to know what this plant is and what it looks like.
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Hemlock may look like a beautiful plant but it is actually an invasive weed that is toxic during the warm and sunny months of the year. This plant can grow up to 12 feet with a tall center stalk, green stems, and fern-like leaves. It also forms clusters of white flowers with five petals.
Poison Hemlock is often confused with several other plants like common yarrow, sweet fennel, elderflower, and even wild parsnip.
This plant is actually an invasive weed that is native to Europe and Northern Africa. It thrives in wet areas such as near ditches, streams, rivers, etc.
This poisonous plant has been found all over the state with large concentrations found in Treasure Valley and southern Idaho. In the panhandle, Latah, Nez Perce, and Kootenai Counties all have received multiple reports of this deadly plant.
If you see Poison Hemlock, it is best to stay far away. The entire plant is extremely dangerous. Humans can be poisoned by simply inhaling the plant’s fumes or through skin contact. If multiple leaves are ingested, the plant can kill a human within two hours. The plant is just as deadly to animals as well.
If you find yourself outdoors and come across these dangerous plants, call the Ada County Noxious Weed Control experts at 208-577-4646. They will be able to instruct you on your next steps of action.
If you touch the plants, you will want to rinse your body immediately with dishwashing soap and lots of water. If you touched the plant with your hands, make sure to thoroughly scrub underneath your nails.
You will also want to apply a wet compress, calamine lotion, or hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching and blistering, and then take an antihistamine. In severe cases, and if you develop any sort of itching or rash on your face, seek medical attention immediately.
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Have you seen Poison Hemlock in Idaho? Let us know in the comments!
If working or playing outdoors, it is essential to have the correct gear to help protect your body. For the entire family, you can find many must-need items at places like REI.
