BY JOY PRUDEK
St. Luke's Wood River is pleased has added Dr. Michelle Eide to its OB/GYN clinic.
Eide grew up in Boise and graduated from Capital High School before earning a Bachelor of Science degree in both Art and Biology from the College of Idaho. Her journey into medicine was inspired during her college years in London, where she took a transformative embryology course.
"I first became truly interested in both medicine and OB/GYN while taking some medicine courses in London," said Dr. Eide. "The complexity and simplicity of the pathways that lead to the creation of a human fetus still amaze me to this day."
Eide brings diverse experiences to her new role, having worked in various fields, including hospitality and environmental education with the National Park Service, before committing to a career in medicine. Her passion for serving smaller communities drew her to the WWAMI program at the University of Washington School of Medicine, which emphasizes rural healthcare.
"I always knew I wanted to stay in Idaho and eventually move to a smaller community," said Eide. "The WWAMI program felt like a good fit because of its focus on rural healthcare in the region."
Eide received the University of Washington School of Medicine service award in 2017, 2018 and 2019. The award is given to the top 15 percent of medical students that demonstrate commitment to community service, service learning, and advocacy activities.
In 2016 she was the recipient of the Debbie and Kati Lindsey memorial scholarship, which is awarded to one Idaho woman each year who is pursuing continued education beyond the first year of college or university classes and exemplifies the qualities of kindness, service and dedication to education.
Having worked in patient registration at St. Luke’s prior to medical school, she is excited to rejoin St. Luke's, recognizing its reputation as a leader in healthcare in Idaho.
"I’m thrilled to be part of St. Luke’s because everyone focuses on helping patients access the care they need and deserve," she said. "St. Luke’s is dedicated to serving the community, and I am looking forward to contributing to that mission."
Eide describes her approach to patient care as centered around collaboration and understanding: "I love getting to know patients and learning about everything that affects their health and healthcare decisions so we can work as a team. The more I know about patients and what their goals and obstacles are, the better we can work together to personalize their healthcare."
A lover of the outdoors, Eide is also excited about the lifestyle opportunities in the Wood River Valley.
"Growing up in Idaho, I always knew that the Wood River Valley was a community with a lot to offer, including good people, community events, and recreation," she said. "I love camping, hiking, backpacking, and just being outside when I can manage. I’m excited to learn more about the valley and everything it has to offer."
Dr. Eide joins Dr. Joel Carlson and nurse practitioner Jenny Stireman at St. Luke’s Wood River OB/GYN clinic. The clinic is located at the Physician Office Annex, 100 Hospital Drive, Suite 200, next to the hospital.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact St. Luke's OB/GYN clinic at 208-727-8600.