James Cook, PA-C

James Cook grew up on a farm in the small town of Carey, Idaho. He attended Ricks College and graduated with degrees in Pre-Physician Assistant studies and Health Science. James then transferred to Idaho State University and graduated from the PA program in 2003.

Shortly after graduation, James began working in neurosurgery with Dr. Stephen Marano in Idaho Falls where he specialized in neck and back problems until Dr. Marano retired in 2019. But James’ desire to continue helping patients with spine problems brought him to his work at Summit Orthopaedics.

James is both a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants as well as the Idaho Academy of Physician Assistants. He firmly believes preventative maintenance is a key component to maintaining a healthy spine and proper nutrition and a healthy active lifestyle are critical to achieving this. He is very excited to work with Dr. Johnson to help people live a long happy life as free from back and neck pain as possible.

When James is not working, he is probably spending time outdoors with his wife and four kids. Together they love to hike, backpack, climb, and fly-fish and love that they can do all of this in Idaho!

The care could not have been better. Never been treated as well at any other medical facility. James Cook is a considerate and caring professional. Dr. Johnson is amazing. The rest of the staff is friendly, professional and very helpful.
JoLynn Drage
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Dr. Johnson and James were my doctors and they are amazing, compassionate and patient with me and I got my life back with no pain after I healed from surgery. My medical assistant Julie Murdock was thorough and was always available to answer any questions I had! Love this office!
Karen Scott
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Summit Ortho is across-the-board awesome! Dr. Johnson, James Cook, the entire team has been amazing. I went in with pain and numbness, losing feeling all the time, and came out with a fixed neck, very little numbness, no pain, but also friends. They are a great time, I can't recommend enough!
Mark Cornelison
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Check in is always easy. The nursing staff is terrific. I primarily have worked with Dr. Johnson’s team. My last visit was with James Cook. He is knowledgeable, caring, and patient. He addressed all of my concerns.
Cheri Warren
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Schedule an Appointment

Don’t let pain or injury limit your life. Whether you need expert evaluation, advanced treatment, or a caring team to guide you, Summit Orthopaedics is here for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at our Idaho Falls office.

Why Choose Summit Orthopaedics?

Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeons

Our team includes some of the region’s most respected surgeons, with deep expertise in both minimally invasive procedures and complex joint reconstruction.

Comprehensive Services

From evaluation to recovery, we offer a full continuum of care, including advanced imaging, physical therapy, pain management, and both surgical and non-surgical treatments—designed for seamless, optimal outcomes.

Patient-Centered Approach

Every patient is different. We listen, answer questions, and tailor treatment plans to your goals.

Advanced Technology

We stay at the leading edge of orthopedic techniques and tools to deliver the best available treatments—whether surgical or less invasive alternatives.

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