In a significant move to enhance healthcare services in Idaho, St. Mary’s Health and Clearwater Valley Health have announced the acquisition of Arnzen Super Drug Inc., which includes its well-established pharmacy locations in Cottonwood, Kamiah, and Orofino. This purchase marks a pivotal step in continuing the legacy of Arnzen Super Drug, which has provided pharmacy care to the region for over 135 years.
Founded in 1890, Arnzen Super Drug has built a reputation for integrity and dedication in rural healthcare. The acquisition is set to maintain and expand these services, with plans to enhance resources and coordination of care. “We are incredibly grateful for the foundation that Arnzen’s has established over the past 135 years,” stated Lenne Bonner, CEO of St. Mary’s Health and Clearwater Valley Health. “We could not be more thrilled to carry this mission forward and ensure that these essential pharmacy services remain not only available but strengthened and expanded.”
Continuing a Legacy of Care
Rod Arnzen, the previous owner, expressed his enthusiasm for the transition, emphasizing the importance of local care. “I am so excited to see the Arnzen legacy continue forward with Kootenai Health, St. Mary’s Health, and Clearwater Valley Health,” he said. “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.”
Bonner reinforced the commitment to support the dedicated staff and invest in the future of pharmacy services in the region. The pharmacies will operate with the same personnel and personalized service that patients have come to trust. As the transition unfolds, further information will be provided, with no disruption to patient services anticipated.
Local Government Developments
In related regional news, the Idaho County Commission met on December 9, 2023, to discuss various local projects. The cost of completing the new jail facility has increased by an additional $26,000, as reported by Denis Duman. This increase is attributed to the need for additional network equipment to ensure internet service becomes fully operational.
County IT manager Mike Brown highlighted that essential infrastructure, including network switches and battery backup systems, is still required for the jail. The commissioners approved the necessary expenditures to facilitate this work.
Additionally, Mike Cook, the airport manager, addressed the need for an independent fee estimate (IFE) for a planned apron construction project. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations mandate a third-party estimate to assess the reasonableness of contractor costs. The commission approved Cook’s request, allowing the project to advance.
The meeting also covered communication challenges faced by road and bridge crews in remote areas. Supervisor Guy VonBargen reported issues with existing telephone systems and proposed researching alternatives, including newer technologies like Starlink and satellite texting, to improve reliability and reduce costs.
The Idaho County Commission convenes every Tuesday morning at 9:30 a.m. at the courthouse, providing a platform for ongoing discussions about community needs and developments.
