Regence BlueShield of Idaho

02/05/2026

Did you know radon gas is found in about 40% of Idaho homes and is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers? It’s invisible and odorless, but it’s a big risk – claiming around 21,000 lives each year. Idaho ranks 8th for radon levels nationwide, but there’s good news: testing is simple and affordable, with kits at most hardware stores for under $20.

Learn more in the latest Healthier Together segment on Idaho News 6: https://bit.ly/4bxuYuQ

Testing for radon is simple with a test that can cost less than 20 dollars. Winter is a prime time to test your home because it's usually closed tight to maintain warmth.

02/04/2026

Did you know that a recent study conducted by BHI and BCBSA shows that when breast and colorectal cancers are found in preventive screenings instead of diagnostic screenings for existing symptoms, patients are diagnosed earlier and their overall spending is lower?

Prevention doesn’t just save lives, it saves money, too.

From well-child exams to mammograms, preventive screenings are available for Regence members. You can learn more about your benefits by signing in to your regence.com account.

01/30/2026

We’re proud to share that our corporate foundation, Cambia Health Foundation, has invested $100,000 in the Idaho Botanical Garden’s horticulture therapy program. This program uses nature to support mental health, physical mobility, social connection, and emotional resilience for people of all ages and abilities. It's inspiring to witness the foundation’s commitment to community-based programs that help Idahoans thrive.

Learn more: https://www.idahobotanicalgarden.org/idaho-botanical-garden-announces-creation-of-the-therapeutic-garden-in-tribute-to-klara-k-hansberger-and-expansion-of-horticulture-therapy-program-private-donation-and-100000-grant-from-cambia-heal/

01/30/2026

At Regence, we’ve nearly our doubled our behavioral health provider network across markets in the last five years, and 95 percent of our members can get an appointment with a virtual provider within one week. Dr. Mike Franz, executive medical director for behavioral health, explores on the latest episode of the HealthChangers podcast how Regence is expanding immediate access to behavioral health care for our members while addressing systemic challenges facing behavioral health in our communities.

🎧 Listen to the full episode: https://news.regence.com/podcast/we-believe-mental-health-is-health-how-regence-expands-access-to-behavioral-health-care

01/28/2026

Did you know your thyroid could be affecting your health – and you might not even know it? An estimated 20 million Americans have thyroid disease, leading to issues like weight changes, fatigue, heart rate problems and even hair loss. Thyroid disorders are especially common in women over 35, but the good news is they're often easily treated – once diagnosed!

Learn more in the latest Healthier Together segment on Idaho News 6: https://bit.ly/4sWMvCS

20 million Americans have some sort of thyroid condition and the symptoms they face may often be attributed to other causes.

01/23/2026

Here in Idaho, over 43,000 children are being raised by their grandparents, another relative or a close family friend. These family structures – called kinship or grandfamilies – can cause chronic stress on the adults who find themselves in a caregiving role. But if grandfamilies are equipped with support and resources they need, all individuals involved can adjust and flourish. Last year, our corporate foundation invested in Idaho Caregiver Alliance to support these grandfamilies as they often navigate numerous challenges. Watch the segment below to hear Tammy's story as she raises her granddaughter: https://www.kivitv.com/news/local-news/in-your-neighborhood/43-000-idaho-children-rely-on-relatives-for-care-as-kinship-caregivers-seek-support-and-resources

01/21/2026

Feeling the winter blues? You’re not alone – millions of people struggle each year as days get shorter, gloomier and colder. Experts say bright light therapy, regular exercise and helping others are proven ways to boost your mood. But they caution that alcohol can actually make symptoms worse.

Learn more about effective ways to prioritize your mental health this winter in the latest Healthier Together segment on Idaho News 6: https://bit.ly/3ZpiRIU

Light boxes, exercise, medication and even volunteering are all possible ways to improve mood if you suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. A visit to your doctor is always a good idea.

01/16/2026

Parenting is hard. We get it.

Introducing Bend Health, our newest partner that offers mental health care for children, teens and young adults up to age 25.

Their care model includes coaches, therapists and psychiatric providers who specialize in ADHD, anxiety, sleep issues, neurodiversity evaluations, intensive outpatient care and more. Virtual sessions and after-school/weekend appointments make it easier to fit your schedule.

Available on select plans. Learn more at https://www.bendhealth.com/network/partner?utm_campaign=regence_hp&utm_source=hp_social

01/15/2026

"I got you."

For 10 years, Buffy Anderson has been more than a customer service professional—she's been a guide, an advocate and sometimes, a lifesaver.

When a member called with chest pains, Buffy didn't just explain his benefits. She urged him to go to the ER immediately. He was having aa heart attack and received a lifesaving stent.

Buffy called the next day to check on him. And the next month. And even on his birthday.

That's the Regence difference. That's Buffy.

Read more: https://news.regence.com/blog/buffy-anderson-goes-the-extra-mile-to-help-members-with-their-benefits

01/14/2026

Are you setting health goals for the new year? Medical experts say lasting success comes from realistic planning and achievable goals – not just good intentions. Many resolutions fail because we aim too high, but with the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound), you can set yourself up for success.

Learn more in the latest Healthier Together segment on Idaho News 6: https://bit.ly/4sxgml8

Many people start the year motivated, then burn out fast. A local doctor says the biggest mistake is aiming too high — and explains how smaller, attainable goals can lead to lasting change.

12/24/2025

Kootenai Health providers and facilities remain in-network! 🎉

Regence members can continue accessing care at Kootenai Health with in-network benefits.

We appreciate everyone's patience as our organizations worked together to maintain access to high-quality, cost-effective care.

https://news.regence.com/blog/kootenai

12/18/2025

The holidays are filled with festive cheer – and often, a drink or two. But did you know that even a small amount of alcohol can be harmful to your health, impacting your brain, sleep and increasing cancer risk?

Medical professionals remind us that decision-making can quickly go downhill, leading to accidents and regrets.

If you do choose to drink, make sure to eat, hydrate (one glass of water for every drink!) and most importantly, always arrange a safe ride home.

Learn more in the latest Healthier Together segment on Idaho News 6: https://bit.ly/3MAbxXZ

Alcoholic drinks are highly common during the holiday season. And while moderation is a good rule of thumb, doctors say any amount of alcohol should be considered toxic.