KH.ORG 9 graduating from my fellowship, I worked as faculty physician for the addiction medicine fellowship at UCR until moving to Coeur d’Alene. Why did you pick your specialty? Becoming an addiction medicine physician has allowed me to be a beacon of hope and healing in the lives of individuals who are crippled with one of the most challenging and stigmatized health issues of our time. I have a unique opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of those affected by addiction, guiding them toward recovery, rebuilding families and restoring futures. Through my expertise, compassion and dedication, I can not only help provide stability but also contribute to breaking the cycle of suffering and transform communities for the better. What can patients expect when they first meet with you? My patients vary widely. When patients come to meet us for the first time, they will notice that we have a fantastic team that truly respects and cares for them. Our goal is to provide comprehensive, tailored medical care that focuses not just on the current affliction, but also on treating the underlying condition with an emphasis on safety and comfort. What are some of your hobbies? Skiing, hiking, biking, getting out on the water or just playing a board game with my family. What drew you to Kootenai Health? Characteristics attributed to Kootenai Health are its patient-centered care, strong team culture, and policy of empathy and caring for their patients. What is your favorite healthy tip? Exercise and play sports or anything that gets the heart rate up. Do it for 30 minutes three times a week. Play games that make you think, like board games, puzzles or whatever you like. Together they keep the mind and body healthy and happy. Brooke Potratz, M.D. Kootenai Clinic Family Medicine, Rural Health Tell us a bit about you and your family. I grew up in Sandpoint, Idaho (“Go Bulldogs!”). My husband, Wes, is also a northern Idaho native. We returned to Coeur d’Alene in 2020, when I started residency at Kootenai Health. We have a golden Lab, named Bodhi. We enjoy being close to family and friends and adventuring in the great outdoors. Why did you pick your specialty? I attended the University of Washington School of Medicine as part of the Idaho WWAMI class. I completed my first two years in Moscow, Idaho. During my third year of medical school, I participated in an outpatient longitudinal clerkship in Sandpoint, where my love of family medicine developed. I am passionate about caring for patients at all stages of life, especially developing relationships with patients. I am particularly interested in rural medicine, point-of-care ultrasound and hospital medicine. What can patients expect when they first meet with you? It is important to me to listen to patients about their lifestyle and their medical history. I believe patients are ultimately responsible for their health, and it is my goal to support them in being their healthiest selves. I tend to be a direct communicator and hope to clearly talk to patients about their medical concerns and questions. I also understand that the medical system can be confusing and challenging, so I try to support my patients as they navigate the medical system as a whole. What are some of your hobbies? My husband and I enjoy the lake, the mountains, home renovations and outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, cycling and boating. I also delight in spending time with family and friends, cooking, and reading. What drew you to Kootenai Health? Before medical school, I worked in the imaging department at Kootenai Health. During that time, I saw the residency program start and develop into a great training program. As a native to the area, I was very fortunate to be able to return to Kootenai to complete my residency. The culture of Kootenai Health has always been positive and encouraging. It is a large enough system to meet patients’ needs and yet small enough where you are able to know people from many different areas within the organization. What is your favorite healthy tip? Any lifestyle change is a “work in progress.” Lasting changes take time. Wellness is the most important investment you can make in your life. Strive for the best health you can have in all areas of your life by making mindful, healthy choices.
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