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Future Home for the $11.8 million facility to open Fall 2012 |
Benewah Medical and Wellness Center
Coeur d'Alene Tribe
Prior to the Indian Self-determination Act, during the 1970s and early 80s, the Coeur d'Alene people (Indian and non-Indian populations) were experiencing high levels of poverty and poor health care. A third of the population was 200% below the Federal poverty line, with approximately 56% with no health insurance. Unemployment was typically the highest in the nation and twice the national average. For the tribally enrolled members, the Indian Health Service provided a full-time nurse practitioner, a monthly visit by a doctor and dental service every few months. The nearest other health services for Indian or non-Indian was over 60 miles away.
In 1990, a combined City of Plummer and Coeur d'Alene Tribe endeavor, the Benewah Medical and Wellness Center was opened. It serves over 8,000 Indian and non-Indian patients, with five full-time physicians, full-time dentists, and a full range of technical assistants, and complete, state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapy services. All residents of the community, regardless of tribal affiliation or not, paying on a sliding scale.
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Future Home for the $11.8 million facility to open Fall 2012 |
In addition to health careers, employment opportunities have readily increased through the Coeur d'Alene Casino and Golf operations, Natural Resources programs and other Tribal business enterprises, virtually rendering 0% unemployment rate.
Official Web Page of the facility.
For an historical review of the facilities and interviews.