Idaho Department of Health and Welfare

08/18/2026

Subscribe to our blog and we'll email the latest news about the Department of Health and Welfare weekly. Fill out the form in the right column here: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/dhw-voice

08/17/2026

Joint News Release: Public health officials report first Idaho West Nile virus meningitis case of 2026:
https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/news/public-health-officials-report-first-idaho-west-nile-virus-meningitis-case-2026

08/17/2026

Mental health is part of overall health. Just as we seek care for a broken bone or illness, children and teens may sometimes need support for emotional or behavioral challenges. Learn more: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/behavioral-health/about-childrens-behavioral-health

08/14/2026

DHW is hiring for a wide range of positions. Look through our job postings and apply to join our team at: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/about-dhw/job-openings-and-apply-online

08/14/2026

Protecting public benefit programs means making sure benefits go to eligible Idahoans and addressing suspected fraud, waste, and abuse when it occurs. See how DHW works to protect program integrity, and how it’s looking for ways to improve those efforts: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/dhw-voice/dhw-explores-new-approaches-combat-fraud-waste-and-abuse

08/12/2026

Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus have been detected in multiple southern Idaho counties. Fight the bite:
Wear long sleeves and pants outdoors
Use EPA-approved insect repellent
Dump standing water around your home
Details: https://westnile.idaho.gov

08/11/2026

Foster parents are needed for children and youth of all ages, especially teens, sibling groups, medically fragile children, and children who exhibit behaviors that require a higher degree of supervision or skill. Can you help? https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/children-families/child-and-family-services-and-foster-care/about-foster-care

08/10/2026

Idaho Medicaid recipients should make sure their contact info is current so they receive important information about eligibility changes that are coming soon. Learn more: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/medicaid-health/medicaid-expansion

08/06/2026

Parents know their children best. If you're concerned about your child's emotional well-being, resources are available to help you understand options and connect with support. Learn more: https://yes.idaho.gov/

08/06/2026

Through the Rural Health Transformation Program, millions of dollars will be available to support new ideas that improve health care access in rural communities. But here's the thing — this isn't just about hospitals. DHW Director Juliet Charron joins the Boise State Public Radio Idaho Matters crew to discuss:

Federal cash could make a big difference for health care in rural Idaho communities.