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Boise, Idaho, the state’s capital and most populous city, is often praised for its high quality of life, natural beauty, and growing economy. However, one of its most essential features—often overlooked by newcomers and travelers—is its robust and evolving healthcare system. With a range of acute care hospitals, specialty clinics, and community health centers, Boise offers high-quality medical services that rival those of larger metropolitan areas.
Whether you are a resident, a student at Boise State University, a retiree settling into Idaho’s serene lifestyle, or just visiting, understanding the healthcare facilities available in Boise can help you access the best care when you need it most.
This guide provides an in-depth overview of the top hospitals and medical centers in Boise, along with details on specialty services, urgent care options, and the city’s commitment to public health.
1. St. Luke’s Boise Medical Center
Location: 190 E Bannock St, Boise, ID 83712
Type: Not-for-profit, regional medical center
Bed Count: 500+
Overview:
St. Luke’s Boise Medical Center is the flagship hospital of the St. Luke’s Health System, which is the largest healthcare provider in Idaho. Located in downtown Boise, this full-service hospital provides comprehensive medical care, from emergency treatment to complex surgeries.
Key Services:
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Level II Trauma Center
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Cardiac and Vascular Institute
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Cancer Institute
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Neurology and Neurosurgery
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Orthopedic and Spine Surgery
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Women’s and Children’s Health
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Robotic Surgery
Why It Stands Out:
St. Luke’s Boise is ranked among Idaho’s top hospitals and consistently earns high marks for patient satisfaction, safety standards, and specialty care. Its integration with a vast network of clinics and specialty providers ensures a seamless continuum of care throughout the region.
2. Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center
Location: 1055 N Curtis Rd, Boise, ID 83706
Type: Catholic, not-for-profit hospital
Bed Count: 381
Overview:
Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center is a tertiary care facility that serves as a referral center for patients from western Idaho and eastern Oregon. Part of the Trinity Health system, it blends community-centered care with advanced technologies and medical innovation.
Key Services:
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Level II Trauma Center
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Comprehensive Stroke Center
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Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
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Neurosciences
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Bariatric Surgery
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Cancer Care
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Emergency and Critical Care
Why It Stands Out:
Saint Alphonsus has made significant investments in cutting-edge technologies such as hybrid operating rooms and advanced imaging suites. Its emphasis on faith-based, compassionate care appeals to patients seeking both technical excellence and emotional support.
3. Boise VA Medical Center
Location: 500 W Fort St, Boise, ID 83702
Type: Government (Veterans Health Administration)
Overview:
Serving over 28,000 veterans annually, the Boise VA Medical Center is a critical institution for military personnel and retirees. It offers both inpatient and outpatient care and is affiliated with the University of Washington School of Medicine, making it a center for teaching and research.
Key Services:
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Primary and Preventative Care
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Mental Health and PTSD Services
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Telehealth and Remote Monitoring
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Pharmacy and Lab Services
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Specialty Clinics (e.g., dermatology, cardiology)
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Inpatient Rehabilitation
Why It Stands Out:
The Boise VA is recognized nationally for its patient-centered approach and integrated behavioral health services. It also collaborates with regional VA facilities to ensure veterans in rural areas get access to quality care.
4. St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital
Location: Within St. Luke’s Boise Medical Center
Type: Pediatric Hospital
Overview:
St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital is Idaho’s only full-service children’s hospital, offering neonatal to adolescent care. With board-certified pediatric specialists and a family-centered approach, it provides life-saving care for infants, children, and teenagers.
Core Services:
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Pediatric Emergency Department
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Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
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Pediatric Oncology
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Pediatric Surgery
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Behavioral and Developmental Health
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Child Life Services
Why It Stands Out:
From child-specific imaging technologies to trauma-informed staff, every aspect of the hospital is tailored to the needs of children and families. It is also involved in clinical trials and research in pediatric medicine.
5. Saint Alphonsus Rehabilitation Services (STARS)
Locations: Multiple across Boise and surrounding areas
Type: Outpatient Rehabilitation Centers
Overview:
STARS is a network of outpatient rehab clinics affiliated with Saint Alphonsus Health System. It offers specialized therapy and rehabilitation services for musculoskeletal injuries, surgeries, and chronic pain.
Services:
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Physical and Occupational Therapy
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Speech-Language Pathology
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Sports Medicine
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Post-Surgical Rehab
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Neurological Rehabilitation
Why It Stands Out:
STARS therapists collaborate closely with surgeons and specialists, providing personalized recovery plans that support faster healing and long-term wellness.
6. Terry Reilly Health Services – Boise
Location: 300 S 23rd St, Boise, ID 83702
Type: Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)
Overview:
Terry Reilly is a community health center offering affordable care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. It plays a crucial role in expanding access to healthcare for underserved populations, including the uninsured and underinsured.
Core Services:
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Primary Care
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Behavioral Health
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Dental Services
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Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for substance use
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Women’s Health & Family Planning
Why It Stands Out:
The center’s sliding fee scale and integrated behavioral and medical services make it a safety net for many Boise residents. Terry Reilly also emphasizes preventive care and chronic disease management, reducing the burden on emergency services.
7. St. Luke’s Cancer Institute
Location: Multiple locations, including Boise and Meridian
Type: Specialized Cancer Center
Overview:
St. Luke’s Cancer Institute provides comprehensive oncology care backed by a team of board-certified oncologists, surgeons, and radiation specialists. Patients have access to clinical trials, genetic counseling, and survivorship support programs.
Treatment Options:
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Radiation Therapy
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Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy
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Surgical Oncology
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Hematologic Cancer Care
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Palliative and Hospice Support
Why It Stands Out:
The Institute is involved in groundbreaking cancer research, including precision medicine trials that tailor treatment to the patient’s genetic profile. Their team-based approach supports the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of cancer patients.
8. Urgent Care Clinics in Boise
Boise is home to many urgent care providers, ideal for non-emergency medical issues that require immediate attention outside of regular office hours.
Popular Urgent Care Centers:
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St. Luke’s Urgent Care – Downtown & South Boise
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AFC Urgent Care – Fairview Ave
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Primary Health Medical Group – Multiple Locations
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Boise Family Medicine Walk-In Clinic
Services Typically Offered:
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Minor Injuries (sprains, cuts, burns)
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Respiratory Infections
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Flu Shots and Vaccinations
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COVID-19 Testing
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X-Rays and Lab Services
Why These Matter:
Urgent care facilities fill the gap between primary care and emergency departments, helping reduce hospital ER overload and offering fast, cost-effective treatment.
9. Idaho State Veterans Home – Boise
Location: 320 Collins Rd, Boise, ID 83702
Type: Long-term care for veterans
Overview:
This state-operated facility provides residential nursing care to Idaho veterans in a supportive and dignified environment. While it’s not a traditional hospital, its focus on chronic care, memory support, and rehabilitation is vital for many aging veterans.
Why It’s Important:
With amenities like a library, therapy spaces, and communal activities, this home focuses on quality of life while ensuring that medical and psychological needs are met.
10. Public Health and Preventative Care in Boise
Beyond hospitals and urgent care centers, Boise’s public health system plays an essential role in keeping the community safe and informed.
Central District Health (CDH):
Located at 707 N Armstrong Pl, CDH is responsible for promoting health through:
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Immunizations
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Disease Surveillance
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Sexual Health Services
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Tobacco Cessation Programs
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Nutrition and WIC Services
Why It Matters:
Central District Health is at the forefront of public health initiatives, including responses to COVID-19, environmental health concerns, and maternal-child health programs.
Conclusion: A Growing Hub for Quality Care
Boise’s healthcare system is a blend of excellence, accessibility, and innovation. With renowned institutions like St. Luke’s and Saint Alphonsus, as well as community-focused clinics and veteran support systems, the city meets the needs of a diverse and growing population.
Whether you need urgent care, specialized surgery, long-term rehabilitation, or primary wellness visits, Boise provides top-tier medical services backed by modern infrastructure and a commitment to compassionate care.
As the city continues to expand, so does its healthcare capacity—making Boise not just a great place to live, but also a place where residents can thrive with peace of mind regarding their medical needs.