Medical » Directory

Paula Dahlen had a passion to spend her life wisely and help others. Growing up in North Dakota, she initially thought a forestry career was her future. But seeing the suffering of people in Africa, she knew if she was going to make a difference in the world if wasn’t going to be working in the forests. She enrolled in the Nursing program at the University of North Dakota and graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

After a career as a Registered Nurse and Physician Assistant spanning over 30 years, Paula found a home at Heritage Health in January of 2006. Passionate about the mission of Heritage Health, Paula finds a deep satisfaction knowing she is changing the world, one patient, at a time. Even though she never made it to Africa, Paula has never dreaded a day of work.

In addition to her many responsibilities at work, she enjoys her free time with art projects and gardening. An avid animal lover, Paula also volunteers at local animal shelters.

 Daniel joins Heritage Health after completing his residency at Kootenai Health. He most recently worked at Kootenai Urgent Care.

“I wanted to get back into family medicine,” said Daniel. “The biggest difference between urgent care and family medicine is that you’re able to give people the follow-up they need. At the urgent care, they simply need medicine or some other problem solved at that moment. Family medicine allows you to treat the person over time.”

Dr. Henbest graduated medical school from the University of Queensland in Australia.  He completed his undergraduate education at San Diego State University.

“I got into medicine so I could help people,” said Daniel. “It’s very rewarding to be able to make a difference for people.”

Daniel is married to his wife Melissa and together they have three children. He enjoys traveling and spending time with his family. He likes to bicycle, ski, play volleyball, and ultimate frisbee.

Erika Mikles joined the Heritage Health team in October of 2011.

Erika went to the University of Puget Sound for her undergraduate degree and received her physician assistant degree and master’s of Science at Pacific University in 2005. She has had 10 years of experience in medicine; 7 of which have been in cardiology.  Erika has also worked in hospitalist medicine and emergency medicine. During her free time, Erika enjoys, wake surfing, traveling, skiing, cooking, and enjoying time with family and friends.

Dr. Purrington received his medical degree from George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. He is board-certified in Family Medicine and Health Care Quality Management. He has over 20 years of healthcare experience and is passionate about safety and quality, especially for patients transitioning between community, skilled, assisted, or independent living. Dr. Purrington is also the Chief Clinical Officer for Heritage Health, overseeing all aspects of patient care.