With a lifelong passion for people and a career full of stories, Jamie Bingham brings a mix of experience, compassion, and humor to Power County Hospital District. A Physician Assistant with a master’s in PA Studies and a background in public health, psychology, and family practice, Jamie has built his life around caring for others, with a healthy dose of rock-and-roll spirit.
What inspired you to go into healthcare?
“My father! I didn’t graduate high school at first, it was the 1980s, and I was a rock drummer with big dreams. But I took an EMT course and realized how much I loved helping people. The first time I rode in an ambulance, I knew it was where I belonged.”
What do you enjoy most about caring for patients in Power County?
“I just love learning about people. I’ve always had a compassionate heart, even through rough times.”
How would you describe your approach to patient care?
“I literally say a prayer each morning, asking for a more compassionate heart. My mood isn’t always perfect, but every patient deserves my best. So I try.”
Where are you from originally, and what brought you to this area?
“I’m from Long Beach, California. I worked as a paramedic in East L.A. during the Rodney King riots. After my wife and I had our first baby girl, we decided we wanted a better life. We moved from California to Tulsa, then Utah in 2000, them OK, Texas, Arizona, Utah and now, Idaho is home.”
What do you like to do outside of work?
“Family, of course. We have seven kids and have been married 35 years. I love music, too. I’m not a trained musician, but I’ve been passionate about it since I was 14. I’m a rocker at heart.”
Share one fun fact or favorite local spot.
“I love the chicken strip basket at Falls! I’ve written four books, taught classes, and I’m the oldest of eight kids. There’s never a dull moment.”
If you weren’t in healthcare, what would you do instead?
“I’d probably be a radio DJ if those still existed. Maybe a music historian for the rock era. Or maybe I’d just be sitting on the beach with a margarita in one hand and a slice of pizza in the other.”
For LeeAnn Bolgen, helping others has always been more than a career, it’s a calling. With a BSN, RN, and MSN leading to her APRN FNP-C credentials, LeeAnn brings more than 20 years of healthcare experience to Power County Hospital District, including four years as a Family Nurse Practitioner and seventeen years as a Registered Nurse. Her focus areas include family practice and emergency medicine.
What inspired you to go into healthcare?
“I want to help people!”
What do you enjoy most about caring for patients in Power County?
“I love the relationships. Caring for families that I also have the privilege of knowing in the community is so meaningful.”
How would you describe your approach to patient care?
“I focus on the root cause of illness and lifestyle changes first. I try to implement treatments that work with patients’ lives and situations.”
Where are you from originally, and what brought you to this area?
“I moved a lot growing up, but most of my childhood was spent in Howe, Idaho. I graduated high school from Blackfoot.”
What do you like to do outside of work?
“I love anything outdoors and anything that involves spending time with my family.”
Share one fun fact or favorite local spot.
“I love watching my kids play sports, I have a senior boy and a 6th-grade girl!”
If you weren’t in healthcare, what would you do instead?
“I wouldn’t want to do anything else! I can’t think of anything I’d rather do!”
For Brittany Rangel, nursing isn’t just a career, it’s personal. With 15 years in healthcare and five years at Power County Hospital District, Brittany brings a deep sense of compassion and connection to her work every day. Her background includes CNA, CMA, and LPN certifications, along with IV certification, and she’s especially passionate about diversity in family medicine.
What inspired you to go into healthcare?
“Both my parents were sick when I was growing up. I got my CNA to help at home, and after that, I fell in love with helping people and seeing the impact I could make.”
What do you enjoy most about caring for patients in Power County?
“I get to care for people I grew up around and have a sense of connection with them.”
How would you describe your approach to patient care?
“Treating each patient as an individual and understanding their needs.”
Where are you from originally, and what brought you to this area?
“I’ve lived in American Falls all my life.”
What do you like to do outside of work?
“I love to fish and spend time with my husband and kids.”
Share one fun fact or favorite local spot.
“I’m fluent in Spanish!”
If you weren’t in healthcare, what would you do instead?
“I’d probably be a veterinarian or a stay-at-home mom.”
For Ashley Tarasau, a lifelong dedication to helping others began with her own health journey. With 24 years of experience in healthcare and a background in college generals and on-the-job training, Ashley has become a trusted and compassionate presence at Power County Hospital District. Her passion lies in advocating for patients and ensuring everyone feels heard and cared for.
What inspired you to go into healthcare?
“I had some health issues in my early 20s that led to my interest in working in healthcare.”
What do you enjoy most about caring for patients in Power County?
“Getting to make personal connections and advocate for our patients.”
How would you describe your approach to patient care?
“Hands-on. If anyone ever has concerns, issues, or needs help, I love to talk with them and see how I or the clinic staff can help resolve their concerns.”
Where are you from originally, and what brought you to this area?
“I grew up about 40 miles away in Pingree. I moved here when I first got married in 1996.”
What do you like to do outside of work?
“I love road trips and reading.”
Share one fun fact or favorite local spot.
“I’ve been to all 48 continental United States.”
If you weren’t in healthcare, what would you do instead?
“Some kind of accounting or financial work.”
When you meet Ashlee Michael, it’s easy to see why patients feel instantly at ease. A 2022 college graduate with both CNA and CMA certifications, Ashlee has been part of the Power County Hospital District team for two and a half years and she’s loved every minute of it.
“I’ve always enjoyed family practice,” she says. There’s always something new to learn.
What inspired you to go into healthcare?
“I’ve always had this drive to help and care for others, especially when they need it most. I also love helping families understand their medical conditions and concerns, being that bridge of support and understanding.”
What do you enjoy most about caring for patients in Power County?
“Being able to help our community stay healthy and on top of their health. It’s rewarding to feel like you’re making a difference right where you live.”
How would you describe your approach to patient care?
“My approach is really centered on empathy and compassion. I practice active listening and take the time to understand not just someone’s symptoms, but their experiences, concerns, and goals.”
Where are you from originally, and what brought you to this area?
“I’ve lived in American Falls my entire life and I’ve never had any desire to move or leave!”
What do you like to do outside of work?
“I have three dogs, so my husband and I spend a lot of time outdoors. We love going on walks, hikes, and Can-Am rides during sunset hours. Camping with family and friends is one of our favorite things to do.”
Share one fun fact or favorite local spot.
“One fun fact, I do not like hugs but I love exploring trails. Any hiking or riding trail in or around American Falls is my favorite place to be.”
If you weren’t in healthcare, what would you do instead?
“I’d own my own business where I could host special events. I love the idea of bringing people together and creating memorable experiences.”
For Norma Mendez, helping others is more than a job, it’s what brings her joy. With nearly three months of formal training and over two years of experience in healthcare, Norma is continually learning more about insurance while focusing on excellent patient service. Her warm personality and dedication make her one of the friendly faces that patients love to see when they walk through the door.
What inspired you to go into healthcare?
“I really enjoy being helpful. It gives me a lot of satisfaction.”
What do you enjoy most about caring for patients in Power County?
“Being able to see the relief and trust they place in our team, especially when we can see it on their faces.”
How would you describe your approach to patient care?
“I try to make sure every patient feel listened to and important by giving them the attention and respect they need.”
Where are you from originally, and what brought you to this area?
“I’m from Mexico, from a small town where we all knew and helped each other. That sense of community is what I bring to my work today. I’ve had several customer service jobs, and they’ve given me great satisfaction in helping people.”
What do you like to do outside of work?
“Spending time with my children and my family in general. We like to socialize, eat, laugh, and dance.”
Share one fun fact or favorite local spot.
“I love M & J’s restaurant food! I also love Rockland Pharmacy for gifts and ice cream, and I go to Catholic church every Sunday.”
If you weren’t in healthcare, what would you do instead?
“I’m not sure but definitely something in customer service.”
For Tonantzin Blanco, healthcare has always been about connection and compassion. With almost four years of experience and a background in general medicine, she brings patience, kindness, and a strong commitment to helping others feel supported.
What inspired you to go into healthcare?
“Since I finished high school in Mexico, I continued my education in physical therapy. I completed my first year before coming to the U.S., and I’ve always liked working with people and making a difference in someone’s life.”
What do you enjoy most about caring for patients in Power County?
“I enjoy building strong, positive relationships that make patients feel seen and cared for.”
How would you describe your approach to patient care?
“I am patient-centered.”
Where are you from originally, and what brought you to this area?
“I’m from Zacatecas, Mexico. My parents live in this area, and I wanted to be closer to them.”
What do you like to do outside of work?
“I like dancing, baking, and helping out with yard or house work. I also play video games once in a while.”
Share one fun fact or favorite local spot.
“I’m a Mexican folkloric dancer and represented Mexico in a festival in Spain and France in 2011! I also have a very dark sense of humor.”
If you weren’t in healthcare, what would you do instead?
“Probably something in government or communication studies.”
