St. Mary’s Health and Clearwater Valley Health have announced the acquisition of Arnzen Super Drug, Inc., marking a significant development in regional healthcare. This purchase includes Arnzen’s established pharmacy locations in Cottonwood, Kamiah, and Orofino, enhancing access to pharmacy services in these communities.
Honoring a Legacy of Care
Founded in 1890, Arnzen Super Drug has a rich history of providing pharmacy care for over 135 years. The leadership at St. Mary’s Health and Clearwater Valley Health expressed their commitment to building upon the legacy created by Rod Arnzen and his team. “We are incredibly grateful for the foundation that Arnzen’s has established over the past 135 years,” remarked Lenne Bonner, CEO of both health organizations. “Rod and his staff have served this region with integrity, dedication, and a genuine understanding of rural healthcare. We could not be more thrilled to carry this mission forward and ensure that these essential pharmacy services remain available, strengthened, and expanded.”
Arnzen also voiced his enthusiasm for the transition, stating, “I am so excited to see the Arnzen legacy continue forward with Kootenai Health, St. Mary’s Health, and Clearwater Valley Health. It ensures my patients will receive the exceptional local care and continued service from my staff that they’ve relied on for so many years — and for many more years to come.”
The pharmacies will maintain their existing staff and the personalized services that patients have come to trust. Over time, the partnership is expected to enable expanded resources and improved coordination of care, along with ongoing investments in local pharmacy services.
As the transition unfolds, St. Mary’s Health and Clearwater Valley Health have assured the community that there will be no disruption to patient services. More information will be shared as the integration progresses.
Additional Local Developments
In another update from the region, the Idaho County Commission discussed the rising costs associated with the completion of a new jail facility. During a meeting on December 9, 2023, Denis Duman, a county official, reported that the project’s costs had increased by an additional $26,000 due to the need for essential network equipment to ensure operational internet service.
While internal cabling was installed during construction, the county’s IT manager, Mike Brown, identified missing infrastructure, including network switches and battery backup systems. He emphasized the necessity of constructing a basic yet effective network to support the jail’s communication needs. The county commissioners unanimously approved the required equipment and installation.
In related discussions, Mike Cook, the airport manager, reported on the need for an independent fee estimate for an upcoming apron construction project, as mandated by FAA regulations. The commissioners approved his request to advance this estimate, which is crucial for evaluating the costs before finalizing a federally funded contract.
The meeting also addressed communication challenges faced by road crews in remote areas. Supervisor Guy VonBargen expressed concerns regarding inadequate telephone and radio communications, complicating coordination during field operations. The board agreed to explore alternative communication solutions, including potentially leveraging technologies like Starlink for improved service.
The Idaho County Commission regularly meets on Tuesday mornings at 9:30 a.m. at the courthouse, where they discuss various regional issues affecting local residents.
