Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 1, 2021

KH . ORG 13 enjoyed working with many of the other providers in the area. I also saw firsthand how Kootenai Health prioritizes the health and well-being of the community so we can all enjoy what this beautiful region has to offer. I made many connections within the community as well, both through the patients I took care of and new friends, which made it an easy choice to stay. What is your favorite healthy tip? I frequently have patients with insomnia, or difficulty sleeping. Many people don’t realize that the blue wavelengths of light from their phone or TV screens suppress their natural release of the sleep hormone melatonin, which is important for regulating the body’s sleep-wake cycle. My recommendations to patients are to stop looking at their phones or turn off the TV one to two hours before bedtime, use soft lighting close to bedtime, and develop a bedtime routine every night—such as reading a physical book or magazine before going to bed. Schedule an appointment: Call (208) 625-3500 . Neil Patel, M.D., MBA Kootenai Clinic Psychiatry Tell us a little bit about your family. I’m married to the most amazing wife who is a critical care nurse and has worked in the neonatal ICU, surgical ICU and critical care specialty transport. There isn’t anything she can’t do as she balances all of this while showing love unconditionally to all those around her. We are excited to be growing our family—baby due in March 2021. Our other family member is Oslo, a 100-pound Bernedoodle, who loves long hikes, naps and belly rubs. Why did you pick your specialty? Psychiatry moves beyond the clinical labs, tests and imaging by allowing me to learn more about each one of my patients. This specialty allows me to foster a passion for helping another person by listening to their struggles and working together to take steps forward toward improved mental health. What can patients expect when they first meet with you? Patients can expect to be greeted with my undivided attention, with a calm and quiet demeanor. They can expect someone who will have their best interest in mind while we progress toward a healthy mind together. What are some of your hobbies? I’ve been scuba diving for many years, and I’m always looking into where the next destination will take us. The ocean and all the life it holds never cease to amaze me. Traveling is one of my greatest joys. Last year my wife and I had the privilege to scuba dive in Palau, as well as visit India. When I’m not at work or traveling, you can find me woodworking in the shop. What drew you to Kootenai health? I grew up in a small town in Oregon and always knew I wanted to serve a small community in a big way. My wife grew up not too far from Coeur d’Alene. I was immediately drawn to the mountains and trees when I visited here with my wife. We knew we would love the opportunity to serve others while being able to live in such a beautiful part of the world. What is your favorite healthy tip? To stay in the best shape possible, make sure you’re not only focusing on your physical health but also your mental health. Take time each day to focus on the positive of the day, stay present and spend quality time with the ones you love. Schedule an appointment: Call (208) 625-4888 .