Hospice of North Idaho adds new medical director

COEUR d'ALENE — Hospice of North Idaho has hired Dr. Dianna Kubacz as its medical director.

A board-certified family physician, Kubacz brings more than a decade of experience in family medicine, hospice care, and community health. Her career has included caring for patients at every stage of life, from newborns to those facing serious illness and end-of-life journeys, a press release said.

"Dr. Kubacz brings exceptional clinical expertise, thoughtful leadership, and a deep understanding of the hospice journey," said Shawna Cauley, Executive Director of Hospice of North Idaho. "Her commitment to whole-person care makes her a wonderful addition to our team and our community."

Originally from South Carolina, Kubacz was inspired by her grandmother, one of the state's early home health nurses. That influence helped shape her passion for medicine and whole-person care, focusing on the physical, emotional, spiritual, and relational needs of patients and families.

After earning her medical degree in South Carolina and completing her family medicine residency in Wichita, Kan., Kubacz and her husband, who is also a physician, spent several years serving in Central and West Africa. Their work in community health and mission hospitals strengthened her commitment to preserving dignity and providing comfort for individuals living with serious illness.

Most recently, Dr. Kubacz served as a hospice physician and medical director with a nonprofit hospice organization in South Carolina before relocating to North Idaho with her husband and five children in early 2026.

Her connection to hospice care is both professional and personal. While onboarding into her first hospice leadership role, her grandmother was receiving hospice care during the final weeks of her life, the release said.

"At the same time, I was learning hospice care as a physician, I was experiencing it as a family member," said Kubacz. "That experience continues to remind me of the importance of walking alongside patients and families with compassion, dignity, and support."

Outside of work, Kubacz enjoys swimming, mountain biking, spending time with her family, and exploring North Idaho's outdoors.

"Hospice care is about preserving dignity, offering comfort, and supporting both patients and the people who love them," said Dr. Kubacz. "I'm honored to serve this community and be part of the important work Hospice of North Idaho provides."