Three Idaho physicians have earned 2026 WRITE Excellence in Teaching Awards for their dedication to teaching and mentoring future physicians through Idaho WWAMI’s WWAMI Rural Integrated Training Experience (WRITE) program. This year’s Idaho recipients are Dr. Michelle Eide of Ketchum, Dr. John Hatzenbuehler of Hailey, and Dr. Jessica Sollstrom of Nampa.
Michelle Eide, MD – Ketchum
Idaho WWAMI alum Dr. Michelle Eide, an OB-GYN at St. Luke’s Wood River Clinic in Ketchum, is known for creating a supportive, hands-on learning environment for students.
A student who nominated Dr. Eide said her supportive teaching style helped build confidence during what initially felt like an intimidating OB-GYN rotation.
“OB/GYN was a rotation I initially felt nervous about, but Dr. Eide transformed it into one of the most enjoyable and surprising highlights of my clerkship year,” the student wrote.
The nominator praised Dr. Eide for emphasizing active participation in patient care while helping students feel more prepared in clinical settings.
“Her support, encouragement, and commitment to hands-on teaching made this rotation outstanding, and I am truly grateful for her mentorship,” the student wrote.
John Hatzenbuehler, MD – Hailey
Dr. John Hatzenbuehler, an Idaho WWAMI alumnus, family medicine physician in Hailey and Assistant Clinical Dean for Idaho WWAMI, is widely respected for his calm, supportive approach to teaching.
A student who nominated him credited Dr. Hatzenbuehler’s ability to create an environment where learners become more independent while knowing support is always available.
“He is truly one of the finest educators I have worked with at any stage of my training,” the student wrote. “His relaxed, steady demeanor creates a learning environment where students feel safe to think independently, make mistakes, and grow into confident clinicians.”
The student also pointed to Dr. Hatzenbuehler’s lasting impact on learners both personally and professionally.
“His influence extends far beyond the clinic; he shapes the way his students think, interact, and grow,” the student wrote.
Jessica Sollstrom, DO – Nampa
Dr. Jessica Sollstrom, a family medicine physician and associate medical director with Terry Reilly Health Services in Nampa, was honored for her dedication to both patient care and medical education.
A student who nominated Dr. Sollstrom said she consistently prioritized teaching despite the demands of managing a full patient schedule.
“Dr. Sallstrom made my experience at Terry Reilly truly exceptional,” the student wrote. “She leads by example as one of the most dedicated and caring physicians I have ever worked with.”
The student also highlighted Dr. Sollstrom’s commitment to mentoring future physicians.
“Despite her extremely busy schedule, she always makes time for teaching, and it’s clear that she genuinely loves her patients and her role as an educator,” the student wrote.
Together, these three Idaho physician award recipients exemplify the role community physicians play in mentoring and preparing future doctors across Idaho.