Sara Ambrose | Chief Executive Officer
Sara Ambrose, MBA, MS-CCC-SLP, serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital (NIACH), where she leads with compassion, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to clinical and operational excellence.
“At the heart of every decision I make is a commitment to compassion, excellence in care, and innovation,” says Ambrose. “Leading at Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital means guiding a team that doesn’t just treat illness—we uplift lives.”
Sara began her healthcare career as a speech-language pathologist (SLP) specializing in brain injury rehabilitation, where she spent seven years helping patients rebuild independence and quality of life. Her deep clinical experience continues to shape her patient-centered approach to leadership.
She advanced into healthcare management as the manager of a free-standing rehabilitation hospital, where she discovered her passion for leading teams and improving systems of care. In her more recent roles within a multi-state health system, Sara expanded her expertise in strategic planning, joint venture partnerships, and healthcare business development, gaining a broad perspective on how to align clinical excellence with sustainable growth.
As CEO of Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital, Sara fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability—ensuring that every patient receives high-quality, compassionate care. Her leadership reflects a balance of clinical insight, business acumen, and genuine dedication to the communities NIACH serves.
Forrest Jespersen, MD | Chief Medical Officer | Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital – Critical Care & Pulmonary Specialist
Dr. Forrest Jespersen is a board-certified critical care physician (intensivist) and pulmonary specialist. He earned his medical degree from the University of Washington School of Medicine in 2014, graduating with honors. With over a decade of clinical experience, Dr. Jespersen has developed extensive expertise in managing complex, high-acuity patients in intensive care settings.
Dr. Jespersen completed his internship and residency at the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, where he built a strong foundation in internal medicine and acute care. He went on to complete a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine at the University of California Davis Medical Center, further refining his skills in advanced respiratory and critical care management.
He is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, and Internal Medicine, reflecting his commitment to excellence and continued professional development.
Dr. Jespersen is a staff physician at Kootenai Health, where he collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care in both ambulatory and hospital settings.
Grant Drake, DO | Medical Director, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation | Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital – Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit
Dr. Grant Drake, DO, serves as the Medical Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation for the Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit (IRU) at Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital (NIACH), a premier acute care hospital. He leads a multidisciplinary team providing comprehensive rehabilitation care to patients recovering from strokes, complex wounds, amputations, and other complex medical conditions.
With extensive experience in physiatry and inpatient rehabilitation medicine, Dr. Drake is committed to maximizing patients’ functional independence, quality of life, and overall recovery. He collaborates closely with nurses, therapists, and other specialists to develop individualized, evidence-based care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Under Dr. Drake’s leadership, the rehabilitation team at the IRU in NIACH focuses on restoring mobility, enhancing function, and supporting patients through complex medical challenges. His dedication to innovation, compassionate care, and interdisciplinary collaboration ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of acute rehabilitation.
Trisha Stevenson | Chief Nursing Officer
Trisha Stevenson, BSN, RN, is the Director of Nursing at Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital (NIACH), where she oversees all aspects of clinical nursing care across the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Medical-Surgical (Med-Surg), and Intensive Rehabilitation (IRU) units.
With extensive experience in inpatient rehabilitation, and acute medical treatment, Trisha leads her nursing teams with a focus on safety, quality, and compassionate care. Her leadership emphasizes evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary teamwork, and continuous professional development to ensure every patient receives individualized, outcome-driven care.
Trisha’s commitment to excellence reflects NIACH’s mission to provide advanced, patient-centered care that helps individuals recover, rebuild, and return home safely. Her blend of clinical expertise and hands-on leadership makes her an integral part of the hospital’s dedication to exceptional healthcare.
Jennifer West | Director of Patient Outcomes
As Director of Patient Outcomes at Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital, Jennifer West, MSN, BSN, leads initiatives that directly improve the quality, safety, and recovery outcomes of every patient treated within the hospital.
A second-generation nurse inspired by her mother’s compassion and dedication, Jennifer has built a 20+ year career focused on advancing clinical excellence. Her diverse background spans critical care, surgery, infection control, and regulatory compliance—expertise that helps ensure every patient receives evidence-based, high-quality care in a safe and healing environment.
Jennifer holds both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing. She is an active member of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses and the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, as well as a contributor to the North Idaho Prevention Coalition and North Idaho Healthcare Coalition.
Jennifer is deeply aligned with our mission of compassionate, coordinated care. “We can take patients who are broken by trauma and disease and, through our team’s treatment, help them return to their lives,” she says. Her leadership centers on measurable improvement in patient outcomes, reduced complications, and faster recoveries—ensuring every patient experience reflects the hospital’s commitment to excellence.
Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys exploring Idaho’s wilderness, camping with her family and friends.
Amber Madden | Director of Therapy Operations
Dr. Amber Madden, DPT, serves as the Director of Therapy Operations at Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital (NIACH), where she has provided exceptional clinical and operational leadership for the past eight years. In her role, Dr. Madden oversees a multidisciplinary team delivering physical, occupational, and speech therapy services to patients recovering from complex medical conditions, surgeries, and injuries.
With a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and a strong background in rehabilitation science, Dr. Madden is dedicated to advancing functional recovery and optimizing patient outcomes. She leads her department with a focus on evidence-based practice, individualized treatment planning, and interdisciplinary collaboration—ensuring every patient receives high-quality, compassionate care throughout their rehabilitation journey.
Under Dr. Madden’s direction, the therapy team at NIACH continues to enhance mobility, independence, and overall quality of life for patients across Northern Idaho. Her commitment to clinical excellence and patient-centered care reflects the hospital’s mission to help every individual achieve their highest level of recovery.
Shawna Sadler | Director of Pharmacy
Dr. Shawna Sadler serves as the Director of Pharmacy at Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital (NIACH), where she has led the pharmacy department for more than seven years. With a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree and over a decade of clinical experience, Dr. Sadler is dedicated to ensuring safe, effective, and evidence-based medication management for every patient.
At NIACH, Dr. Sadler oversees all aspects of inpatient pharmacy operations, including clinical services, regulatory compliance, formulary management, and interdisciplinary collaboration with physicians, nurses, and therapists. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing medication safety initiatives, optimizing antimicrobial stewardship, and enhancing patient outcomes in the hospital’s long-term acute care setting.
Known for her hands-on leadership style and commitment to continuous improvement, Dr. Sadler is passionate about mentoring pharmacy staff, supporting professional growth, and implementing innovative practices that improve the quality of care across the organization.
When she’s not at the hospital, Shawna enjoys spending time exploring Northern Idaho’s outdoors and staying active in her community.
Kimberly Koch | Market Director of Human Resources
Kimberly Koch serves as the Market Director of Human Resources at Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital (NIACH), bringing four years of dedicated service to the hospital and its mission of delivering exceptional patient care. With a strong background in healthcare human resources and organizational leadership, Kimberly is passionate about fostering a positive workplace culture where employees feel supported, valued, and empowered to provide their best care.
In her role, Kimberly oversees all aspects of human resources operations across the hospital market, including talent acquisition, employee relations, benefits administration, and workforce development. She plays a key role in cultivating engagement and retention strategies that align with NIACH’s commitment to excellence, compassion, and teamwork.
Known for her approachable leadership style and focus on collaboration, Kimberly works closely with hospital leaders to ensure that every team member—from clinicians to support staff—has the tools and resources needed to succeed.
Dan Leonard | Director of Plant Operations
As Director of Plant Operations at Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital, Dan Leonard ensures that the hospital’s facilities operate at the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. With more than 30 years of project management and leadership experience—including 15 years in healthcare—Dan plays a vital role in maintaining a secure and reliable environment where exceptional patient care can thrive.
Dan’s extensive background in all phases of commercial construction and facility management uniquely positions him to oversee hospital infrastructure, life safety systems, and compliance with state and federal healthcare regulations. He leads efforts to optimize building performance, emergency preparedness, and preventive maintenance—key components in supporting uninterrupted clinical operations.
Dan is a lifelong resident of the Northwest, having grown up locally. His professional certifications include ALS Locksmith, ABC Project Manager, OSHA 12-hour Safety, FEMA Emergency Management, and BLS. He is also an active member of the Healthcare Coalition, helping ensure readiness and resilience across the region’s healthcare network.
Outside of work, Dan enjoys life on his ranch with his wife of 34 years, Pam. Together, they share their love of travel, motorcycles, and time with their two children and grandchildren.
Jaclyn Andrews | Market Director of Compliance
Jaclyn Andrews, MSN, RN, serves as the Market Director of Compliance for Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital (NIACH), bringing more than seven years of dedicated service and leadership to the organization. With a strong background in nursing and healthcare administration, Jaclyn is committed to upholding the highest standards of quality, safety, and ethical care across all hospital operations.
In her role, Jaclyn oversees regulatory compliance, accreditation readiness, and risk management initiatives throughout the hospital market. She works closely with clinical and administrative teams to ensure adherence to federal, state, and organizational standards, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement. Her collaborative approach has been key in strengthening patient safety programs and maintaining NIACH’s reputation for clinical excellence.
Jaclyn holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and is a licensed Registered Nurse (RN). Her extensive clinical insight and regulatory expertise uniquely position her to bridge the gap between patient care and compliance strategy—ensuring that every policy and process supports superior outcomes for patients and staff alike.
Jaclyn is involved in the North Idaho Prevention Coalition. She is a member of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology and Sigma Theta Tau, an Honor Society of Nurses.
She is married to a Respiratory Therapist. They have three children and enjoy taking advantage of nature every chance they get! You may see them boating, kayaking, hiking or camping throughout the year.
Tammy Evenson | Administrative Assistant / Medical Staff Services
Tammy Evanson serves as the Administrative Assistant and Medical Staff Services Office Support at Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital (NIACH), where she has been a valued team member for 20 years. With nearly two decades of experience, Tammy plays an essential role in supporting hospital operations and ensuring seamless coordination between medical staff, leadership, and departments across the organization.
Known for her attention to detail, reliability, and deep institutional knowledge, Tammy provides administrative and clerical support that keeps daily operations running smoothly. She assists with medical staff credentialing, documentation management, and communication processes that uphold NIACH’s high standards of safety, compliance, and patient care.
Tammy’s long-standing commitment to the hospital reflects her dedication to teamwork, service excellence, and the community NIACH serves. Her professionalism and friendly approach make her a trusted resource and a cornerstone of the hospital’s administrative team.
Dan Barth | Director of Marketing and Business Development
Dan Barth is a healthcare leader with more than 17 years of experience supporting hospitals and health systems through strategic growth, partnership development, and service line expansion. He currently serves as Director of Marketing and Business Development for Ernest Health, supporting both Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital and Rehabilitation Hospital of the Northwest.
In his role, Dan works closely with physicians, hospital leaders, case management teams, and community partners to improve patient access and ensure individuals receive care at the most appropriate level. His work focuses on strengthening referral networks, improving care coordination, and helping health systems manage capacity for complex and high-acuity patients.
Throughout his career, Dan has led growth initiatives across inpatient rehabilitation, long-term acute care, behavioral health, and post-acute services. He has a proven track record of building strong regional partnerships and aligning clinical and operational teams to support quality outcomes and efficient patient transitions. His efforts have contributed to significant increases in referral volume, admissions growth, and overall system performance.
Prior to his current role, Dan held leadership positions in behavioral health and post-acute care, where he worked extensively with major health systems, government agencies, and community organizations across the Northwest to expand access to care and improve patient flow.
Dan is known for his collaborative leadership style and his commitment to building meaningful relationships that support patients, providers, and the broader healthcare community.
