Intermountain Health and the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games, an outreach department of Southern Utah University, today announced a new partnership that will position Intermountain as the Official Health Partner and Medical Provider of the Games, strengthening support for athletes while advancing health, wellness, and community impact across Southern Utah.

As part of the partnership, Intermountain will serve in a lead health role for the Games and provide on-site athletic training and sports medicine support to help keep athletes safe, supported, and performing at their best throughout the event. 

“This partnership reflects our commitment to showing up in meaningful ways for the communities we serve,” said Jamison Robinett, president of Intermountain Health Cedar City Hospital. “Through this collaboration, Intermountain Health is extending our mission to serve more people by expanding in ways that help individuals live the healthiest lives possible. The Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games is a longstanding and important part of this community, and we are proud to support its athletes, families, and organizers in a shared commitment to health, wellness, and opportunity for all.” 

Jon Oglesby, director of the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games, said, “We are excited to welcome Intermountain Health in this expanded role with the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games. Their support helps strengthen the athlete experience and reinforces our shared belief in the power of sport to improve lives, build community, and create lasting impact.

The 2026 Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games marks the organization’s 40th anniversary, with the Opening Ceremony scheduled for the evening of Friday, June 5, 2026. 

The Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games center their program on “impact and opportunity through sports,” a theme that aligns closely with Intermountain’s mission to help people live the healthiest lives possible.  

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U.S. News & World Report has named 26 Intermountain Health hospitals to its 2026 Best Hospitals for Maternity Care for mom and baby outcomes, education, and patient satisfaction.

The 26 Intermountain hospitals earned a high performing designation in maternity care for uncomplicated pregnancies in areas such as cesarean sections in lower-risk pregnancies, vaginal births after cesarean-section (VBAC) rates, newborn severe complications rates, birthing friendly and education practices, and outcome disparities based on race/ethnicity, among other measures.

Intermountain Health has more hospitals named by U.S. News & World Report for 2026 than any other health system in the country.

Intermountain hospitals cited by U.S. News & World Report for 2026 include:

• Intermountain Health American Fork Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health Cassia Regional Hospital (Burley, Idaho)*
• Intermountain Health Cedar City Hospital (Utah)*
• Intermountain Health Delta Community Hospital (Utah)*
• Intermountain Health Garfield Memorial Hospital (Panguitch, Utah)*
• Intermountain Health Heber Valley Hospital (Utah)*
• Intermountain Health Holy Rosary Hospital (Miles City, Mont.)
• Intermountain Health Intermountain Medical Center (Murray, Utah)
• Intermountain Health Layton Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health LDS Hospital (Salt Lake City)
• Intermountain Health Logan Regional Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health Lutheran Hospital (Wheat Ridge, Colo.
• Intermountain Health McKay-Dee Hospital (Ogden, Utah)
• Intermountain Health Orem Community Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health Park City Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health Platte Valley Hospital (Brighton, Colo.)
• Intermountain Health Riverton Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health Saint Joseph Hospital (Denver)
• Intermountain Health Sanpete Valley Hospital (Mt. Pleasant, Utah)*
• Intermountain Health Sevier Valley Hospital (Richfield, Utah)*
• Intermountain Health Spanish Fork Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital (Utah)*
• Intermountain Health St. James Hospital (Butte, Mont.)*
• Intermountain Health St. Mary's Hospital (Grand Junction, Colo.)
• Intermountain Health St. Vincent Hospital (Billings, Mont.)
• Intermountain Health Utah Valley Hospital (Provo, Utah

"This recognition is meaningful because it reflects what families experience at the bedside: safe, consistent, high quality, compassionate care," said Sean Esplin, MD, a maternal fetal medicine physician and senior medical director of women’s health at Intermountain Health.

"Our clinical program has worked across hospitals to align on proven evidence-based care practices to lower cesarean-section rates in low‑risk pregnancies, thoughtfully support VBAC deliveries, reduce newborn complications, elevate patient education, and advance equity so every mother and baby can expect excellent outcomes," he added.

U.S. News also recognizes Maternity Care Access Hospitals, which provide maternity services to communities that might otherwise have inadequate access to maternity care, sometimes referred to as "maternity care deserts." The report identified 147 critical access hospitals in total, with nine Intermountain hospitals making the list (noted "*" above).

Intermountain  Health is determined to provide the highest quality care to pregnant and postpartum patients and their babies, by improving outcomes and access to care within its six-state region. For example, Intermountain recently announced an innovative care program for pregnant and postpartum women with hypertension, and published a study identifying hypertension risks during pregnancy.

Receiving this designation is evidence of the unwavering dedication of our nurses, physicians, midwives, and teams who show up for mothers and babies every day to deliver high‑quality care—and a reminder to keep improving together, for every family we serve,” added Dr. Esplin.

For more information regarding Intermountain Health pregnancy and maternity services, please visit https://intermountainhealthcare.org/services/womens-health/pregnancy.

Click here for more information about the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals for Maternity Care.

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Intermountain Health has once again earned recognition as one of the nation’s safest health systems for patients, according to  the Leapfrog Group, a national healthcare safety and quality measurement organization that recently  unveiled its 2025 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades. 

This national recognition highlights Intermountain Health’s commitment to the safety of its patients and caregivers by prioritizing processes to prevent patient harm and medical errors.  

Of the 20 Intermountain hospitals evaluated by Leapfrog, 14 received an “A” while six Intermountain hospitals earned a “B” rating, underscoring Intermountain’s consistent safety performance across all communities and a commitment to continuous improvement. 

The Leapfrog survey considered anything that could bring possible harm to patients, such as infections, medical errors, accidents, or injuries. The Leapfrog survey also examines processes and tools that hospitals have in place to prevent harm in the first place. 

It then assigns an “A” through “F” grade, based on the hospital’s performance. 

2025 "A" Safety Grade hospitals include:

• Intermountain Health American Fork Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health Cedar City Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health Good Samaritan Hospital (Lafayette, Colo.)
• Intermountain Medical Center (Murray, Utah)
• Intermountain Health LDS Hospital (Salt Lake City)
• Intermountain Health Logan Regional Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health Lutheran Hospital (Wheat Ridge, Colo.)
• Intermountain Health McKay-Dee Hospital (Ogden, Utah)
• Intermountain Health Park City Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health Riverton Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health Spanish Fork Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital (Utah)
• Intermountain Health St. Vincent Regional Hospital (Billings, Mont.)
• Intermountain Health Utah Valley Hospital (Provo, Utah)

 “These results speak to the dedication of every caregiver and leader at Intermountain, and to our shared commitment to being national leaders in clinical excellence,” said Cara Camiolo, MD, chief quality & safety officer for Intermountain Health. “Whether a hospital achieved an ‘A’ or made meaningful gains this cycle, each story points to the same aspiration: progress happens when every person, in every role, owns their part in advancing safety, reliability, and better outcomes for our patients.” 

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses up to 22 national measures of patient safety from CMS, NHSN, and the Leapfrog Hospital Survey to assess how well hospitals protect patients from preventable harm and medical errors. The survey methodology has been peer reviewed and published in the Journal of Patient Safety. Intermountain Health caregivers are continually training for all aspects of patient safety in healthcare. 

There are also protocols in place that encourage caregivers to speak up and raise concerns if they see something which could put someone at risk, noted Dr. Camilio. 

To see the full Leapfrog list of hospitals and their grades, go to https://www.hospitalsafetygrade.org/. 

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Dieciséis hospitales de Intermountain Health han recibido premios de liderazgo en calidad 2025 Bernard A. Birnbaum, MD, de Vizient por demostrar excelencia en la atención clínica y al paciente de alta calidad.

Tres hospitales, Intermountain Health Fillmore Community, Intermountain Park City e Intermountain St. George Regional, obtuvieron el primer puesto a nivel nacional dentro de su categoría.

Vizient, una destacada empresa de mejoras en el desempeño en la atención médica, clasificó a los hospitales de Intermountain como los de mejor desempeño en la atención médica en su Estudio anual de calidad y responsabilidad, en el que se analiza la información de 1220 hospitales de todo el país. En el estudio, se midió la calidad de la atención al paciente en función de seis factores: seguridad del paciente, mortalidad, eficacia, eficiencia, enfoque en el paciente y variación en la atención.

“Estos premios confirman que las prioridades con las que se compromete Intermountain (seguridad, alta fiabilidad, calidad y el enfoque centrado en el paciente) no solo son aspiraciones, sino también realidades que se dan en todo nuestro sistema”, expresó Cara Camiolo, MD, directora de calidad y seguridad de Intermountain Health. “Este reconocimiento es el resultado directo de la dedicación y el trabajo duro de nuestros empleados de primera línea y gerentes que brindan atención de alta calidad”.

Los hospitales de Intermountain Health obtuvieron una clasificación en las siguientes categorías:

Centro médico académico integral

• Intermountain Medical Center:  puesto 4

Hospital de acceso crítico 

• Intermountain Health Fillmore Community Hospital: puesto 1
• Intermountain Health Cassia Regional Hospital: puesto 6
• Intermountain Health Heber Community Hospital: puesto 11

Centro médico de atención compleja

• Intermountain Health Saint Joseph Hospital: puesto 13

Hospital comunitario

• Intermountain Health American Fork Hospital: puesto 2
• Intermountain Health LDS Hospital: puesto 6

Centro médico grande de atención compleja y especializada

• Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital: puesto 1
• Intermountain Health McKay-Dee Hospital: puesto 4
• Intermountain Health Utah Valley Hospital: puesto 13

Hospital comunitario pequeño

• Intermountain Health Park City Hospital: puesto 1
• Intermountain Health Layton Hospital: puesto 2
• Intermountain Health Sevier Valley Hospital: puesto 4
• Intermountain Health Spanish Fork Hospital: puesto 9
• Intermountain Health Cedar City Hospital: puesto 16
• Intermountain Health Alta View Hospital: puesto 18

En el estudio, se consideran las mediciones de la base de datos clínicos de Vizient y se incluye la información de desempeño de la encuesta de Evaluación del consumidor de hospital sobre los profesionales y los sistemas de atención médica y la Red de seguridad de atención médica nacional de CDC.

Con el estudio de calidad y responsabilidad de Vizient, los hospitales y los sistemas de salud participantes pueden comprender su desempeño frente a sus pares e identificar estructuras y procesos relacionados con el alto rendimiento en la calidad y la seguridad en un amplio espectro de actividad de atención al paciente. El periodo de reconocimiento incluye el trabajo realizado entre el 1 de julio de 2024 y el 30 de junio de 2025.

Para ver la lista completa de hospitales de este año, haga clic aquí.

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Innovative cancer care at Intermountain Cedar City Hospital is helping a Southern Utah man overcome a cancer diagnosis and providing hope for the future.

New Harmony resident, Gary Hugie, 88-years-old, knows first-hand how this approach can make a difference.

Hugie refuses to let a colon and liver cancer diagnosis discourage him from reaching his life goals. Hugie has his sights set on reaching 100 years of age, camping more often, and cherishing time with his family.

Hugie’s unwavering determination is fueled by his optimism of his cancer treatments, which includes Hepatic Artery Infusion Pump Therapy (HAIP) — an innovative cancer treatment that he is currently receiving at the Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center.

The HAIP delivers high-potency chemotherapy directly to cancer cells while minimizing exposure to the rest of the body.

The Intera 3000 HAI Pump, the only FDA-approved implantable pump for HAI therapy, delivers chemotherapy directly into the hepatic artery, ensuring targeted treatment to liver tumors.

The pump is surgically implanted below the skin in the lower abdomen, and is powered by body heat rather than batteries, allowing continuous drug delivery without mechanical failure.

“In some cases, HAIP may open opportunities for definitive therapies like surgery, all while allowing patients to maintain a better quality of life with reduced reliance on systemic chemotherapy,” said Bryce Perkins, DO, a cancer specialist at the Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center.

Dr. Perkins introduced Hugie to HAIP after his colon cancer had spread to his liver.

The chemotherapy had taken a toll as he fought the weakness and pain that often accompanies liver cancer chemotherapy. Dr. Perkins felt he could benefit from the improved quality of life a Hepatic Pump could provide with his type of diagnosis.

Hugie is now the only patient in Southern Utah with an Intera 3000 HAI pump who is currently receiving treatment.

The journey to utilizing this type of treatment in Cedar City on an 88-year-old patient is a testament to resilience and dedication.

It took the collaboration of caregivers at Intermountain Cedar City Hospital, a patient with a fighting spirit, a caring family and innovative work by caregivers at two Intermountain Health facilities to make this treatment a reality.

This innovative treatment started with Intermountain’s providers collaborating across the state.

Dr. Perkins is one of the few Intermountain oncologists in Utah with experience in implementing the HAIP device. He worked closely with Ivan Zendejas, MD, from Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, Utah, to determine HAIP patients’ eligibility.

Dr. Zendejas performed Hugie’s initial surgery to implant the pump at Intermountain Medical Center – and Dr. Perkins was able to continue the treatment in Cedar City, close to Hugie’s home.

Before offering this option for HAIP Therapy, Dr. Perkins trained the Intermountain Health Cedar City Cancer Center oncology team.

"Our staff had to go through an extensive onboarding process from dosing schedules to the absolute importance of follow-up intervals and even accessing the port in a less-than-usual location," Dr. Perkins said. 

Fortunately, Dr. Perkins knew Intermountain caregiver were eager to learn to ensure the best care for local patients.

"Our team here is enthusiastic about giving our patients what they need to succeed, and we jumped into the training to get pump patients up and going," he said.

Support for Hugie’s journey started with his family. He had tremendous support from his beautiful wife, Dorothy, of 67 years and his five kids.

From the moment he started feeling unwell on a camping trip that led to his diagnosis, through colon surgery, chemotherapy and appointments, they have all been by their father’s side, watching him fight this battle.

After his colon surgery removed several inches of his colon, the cancer spread to his liver, and chemotherapy became difficult.

“It was creating some major side effects for him, so that's when we decided the pump might be the alternative,” said Darsena Meeder, Hugie’s daughter.

Hugie said having his treatments close to home, every two weeks, has made all the difference in his decision to continue receiving this life-altering treatments.

Hugie has seen an improved quality of life and experiences fewer harsh side effects. The HAIP has also helped control the growth of the cancer in his liver.

While Hugie knows that he may have to return to some stronger chemotherapy as part of his treatment plan, he remains grateful for the opportunity to have these moments to pursue his goals.

“I appreciate Dr. Perkins and all of his staff at Intermountain Health for the wonderful job they are doing,” Hugie said.  

Dr. Perkins, along with his oncology team at Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center and his peers at Intermountain Medical Center, have been looking to provide new hope for patients, such as HAIP that represent a significant advancement in cancer care.

"Overall, we aim to keep patients safe and healthy while keeping them close to home," Dr. Perkins said.

Dr. Perkins, along with his oncology team at Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center, and his colleagues at Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, are providing new hope for cancer patients.

Their work is driven by helping cancer patients, like Hugie, reach their goals and they hope to see Hugie reach his goal of living to 100 years. 

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CEDAR CITY – Intermountain Health and Southern Utah University (SUU) athletics have joined forces in a new collaboration that will provide SUU athletes with access to top Intermountain sports medicine and orthopedic experts in the region and enhance community health.

This collaboration will create opportunities for both organizations to expand and elevate community wellness initiatives, benefiting the physical and mental well-being of athletes and residents throughout Iron County.

Through this collaboration, SUU athletics and Intermountain Health will work together to enhance health and wellness efforts, particularly for families and children, by developing innovative initiatives that promote physical fitness, injury prevention, and mental well-being.

“With this collaboration, Intermountain Health is extending our mission to serve more people by expanding in ways that help individuals live the healthiest lives possible,” said Jamison Robinett, president of Intermountain Cedar City Hospital. “SUU is a pillar in our community, and we are thrilled to collaborate with them in our shared commitment to improving overall health and wellness in Iron County.”

Mindy Benson, president of Southern Utah University, emphasized the shared values of both organizations.

“At SUU Athletics, we are about education, leadership, and community engagement. This partnership with Intermountain Health aligns perfectly with our mission to prepare our athletes for life beyond sports while also serving the broader community,” she said. “Together, we are dedicated to mentorship, awareness, and holistic wellness.”

Striving to provide high-quality care and superior service at an affordable cost, Intermountain Health—headquartered in Utah with locations in seven states and additional operations across the western United States—is a not-for-profit health system composed of 33 hospitals, 385 clinics, and medical groups with approximately 4,600 employed physicians and advanced care providers.

Intermountain’s Select Health insurance plans cover more than one million members across the Mountain West, and the organization employs nearly 64,000 caregivers. Intermountain is Utah's largest private employer and is widely recognized as a leader in transforming healthcare by using evidence-based best practices to consistently deliver high-quality outcomes at sustainable costs.

This collaboration marks a significant step forward in supporting the well-being of SUU student-athletes and the community, reinforcing a commitment to health, education, and long-term success.

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Intermountain Cedar City Hospital tiene el placer de invitar a la comunidad a su primera charla médica con Intermountain Cedar City Hospital, un evento de salud informativo e interesante diseñado para reunir a los pacientes y a los profesionales de la medicina.

El primer evento de la serie se llevará a cabo el martes 26 de junio, de 6 a 7 p. m. en el aula Northfield del Cedar City Hospital (1303 N. Main Street, Cedar City, Utah). El Dr. Ryan Workman, miembro del equipo médico del hospital, hablará sobre el procedimiento de ablación Intracept, una técnica mínimamente invasiva para tratar el dolor lumbar crónico. 

Los asistentes tendrán la oportunidad de aprender cómo este procedimiento innovador puede mejorar la calidad de vida para quienes sufren de dolor de espalda persistente. La sesión incluirá un debate sobre la ciencia detrás del procedimiento, sus beneficios y los posibles candidatos para el tratamiento. Luego, habrá una sesión de preguntas y respuestas.

Jamison Robinett, el presidente de Cedar City Hospital, enfatizó la importancia del evento y afirmó: “Estamos muy entusiasmados de lanzar esta nueva serie de charlas, en la que los miembros de nuestro equipo médico compartirán información valiosa sobre temas relevantes de atención médica. Nos entusiasma ofrecer estas oportunidades de formación a la comunidad como parte de nuestro compromiso por ayudar a las personas a vivir de la manera más saludable posible, asegurándonos de que los pacientes tengan acceso a la mejor atención posible”.

Este evento enfatiza el compromiso de Cedar City Hospital con el avance de la educación en atención médica y con brindar a los pacientes acceso a los tratamientos médicos más recientes.

Para confirmar su asistencia, complete la información en el siguiente link. 

Obtenga más información sobre Intermountain Health en intermountainhealthcare.org. 

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Intermountain Cedar City Hospital invites the community to its first-ever Med Talk with Intermountain Cedar City Hospital, an informative and engaging health event designed to bring patients and medical professionals together.

The first event in the series takes place on Thursday, June 26, from 6-7 p.m. in the Northfield Classroom at Cedar City Hospital (1303 N. Main Street, Cedar City, Utah). 

Ryan Workman, MD, a member of the hospital's medical staff, will speak about the Intracept Ablation Procedure - a minimally invasive technique to treat chronic low back pain. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn how this innovative procedure can improve quality of life for those suffering from persistent back pain. The session will include a discussion of the science behind the procedure, its benefits, and who may be a candidate for the treatment. A Q&A session will follow.

Jamison Robinett, president of Intermountain Cedar City Hospital, emphasizes the significance of the event.

“We are very excited to launch this new speaking series, where members of our medical staff will share valuable insights on pertinent healthcare topics. We look forward to offering these educational opportunities to the community as part of our commitment to helping people live the healthiest lives possible by ensuring patients have access to the best possible care,” he said

This event underscores Intermountain Cedar City Hospital’s commitment to advancing healthcare education and providing patients with access to the latest medical treatments.

To RSVP, please fill out the information at the following link.  

Learn more about Intermountain Health at intermountainhealthcare.org. 

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Tres hospitales de Intermountain Health han sido clasificado como número uno en sus categorías por Premier y la revista Fortune como parte de su lista nacional de los 100 mejores hospitales para 2025. 

El Intermountain Medical Center de Murray ocupa el primer lugar en el país entre los principales hospitales de enseñanza. El Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital está clasificado como el mejor hospital comunitario grande del país y el Intermountain Layton Hospital como el mejor hospital comunitario pequeño. 

Además, otros seis hospitales Intermountain de Utah se encuentran entre los mejores centros del país en la lista de los 100 mejores hospitales de Premier/Fortune de este año. 

“Gracias al increíble trabajo y dedicación de nuestros cuidadores y a la atención de alta calidad que ofrecen, muchos de nuestros centros de Intermountain Health se encuentran entre los mejores hospitales del país, incluidos tres que ocupan el primer puesto en sus categorías”, afirma Rob Allen, presidente y director ejecutivo de Intermountain Health. “Este reconocimiento es muy gratificante porque demuestra que estamos cumpliendo nuestra visión de ser un sistema de salud modelo que se compromete a ayudar a las personas de las comunidades que atendemos a vivir de la manera más saludable posible”. 

La clasificación de Premier/Fortune se realiza mediante el análisis de los datos disponibles al público general de casi 2600 hospitales en todo el país para determinar los centros que tienen mejor desempeño en cuanto a resultados clínicos, experiencia del paciente, eficiencia operativa y bienestar económico. 

En la investigación que se realizó para elaborar la clasificación se reveló que, si todos los hospitales del país funcionaran al mismo nivel que los clasificados entre los 100 mejores, se salvarían 331,000 vidas más, habría 611,000 complicaciones menos y se ahorrarían $15,000 millones en costos de hospitalización. 

La lista anual de los 100 mejores hospitales de Premier/Fortune se divide en varias categorías. Hay 40 puestos para hospitales de enseñanza y los 60 restantes son para hospitales comunitarios. 

Otros hospitales de Intermountain Health que se encuentran en la lista de los 100 mejores son los siguientes: 
- Intermountain Logan Regional Hospital 
- Intermountain Alta View Hospital en Sandy 
- Intermountain American Fork Hospital 
- Intermountain Cedar City Hospital 
- Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital 
- Intermountain Riverton Hospital 

Para ver la lista completa de los Mejores hospitales de 2025 según Premier/Fortune, haga clic aquí. 

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Intermountain Cedar City Hospital hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking to mark the expansion of the hospital’s emergency department that will increase access to emergency medicine and enhance care for the growing Southwest Utah community.

The new emergency department will add more emergency rooms, including those dedicated to behavioral health needs. 

“We are looking forward to this major milestone for Intermountain Cedar City Hospital and our community as we continue to focus on the growing health needs for this area,” said Jamison Robinett, president of Intermountain Cedar City Hospital. “This is our first major expansion since 2006, and we are excited to expand emergency access for the Southwest Utah community.”

Intermountain Cedar City Hospital's emergency department treated more than 20,000 patients in 2024. As the Southern Utah community continues to grow, this 5,000-square foot expansion is a needed addition, addressing the growing needs of the community and the millions of tourists and outdoor enthusiasts who visit nearby national parks and outdoor recreational areas. 

“Today’s expansion is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents something far greater — it represents a commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of every single person in Iron County and beyond,” said Darin Adams, chief of the Cedar City Police Department.

“Whether it’s responding to a serious accident, assisting a victim of violence, bringing in someone experiencing a medical crisis, or obtaining a medical clearance — our first responders rely on this hospital. They know that when seconds count, Intermountain Cedar City Hospital delivers,” said Adams.

This is the first major expansion for Intermountain Cedar City Hospital since 2006 and is part of the hospital's commitment to provide healthcare close to home for area residents.

As part of the expansion, the emergency department will add nine new rooms, including three additional behavioral rooms, another trauma room, a room with bariatric capabilities, and additional exam rooms. 

"We’re seeing increased volumes and increased sickness in our hospital, and these additional rooms will allow us to more comfortably care for these patients,” said Robinett.  

Intermountain Health caregivers attended the event, alongside community members.

Construction has already begun, and the expansion is expected to be completed in early 2026 by Jacobsen Construction.

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Intermountain Cedar City Hospital celebró una ceremonia por el inicio de las obras de ampliación del Departamento de Urgencias del hospital, que aumentará el acceso a la medicina de emergencia y mejorará la atención para la creciente comunidad del suroeste de Utah.

El nuevo Departamento de Urgencias tendrá más salas de emergencias, incluyendo salas dedicadas a necesidades de salud conductual. 

“Estamos muy ilusionados con este importante hito para Intermountain Cedar City Hospital y la comunidad, en nuestros esfuerzos por abordar las necesidades crecientes de salud de esta zona”, declaró Jamison Robinett, presidente de Intermountain Cedar City Hospital. “Se trata de nuestra primera gran ampliación desde 2006; y nos entusiasma poder ampliar el acceso a la atención de urgencias para la comunidad del suroeste de Utah”.

El Departamento de Urgencias de Intermountain Cedar City Hospital atendió a más de 20,000 (veinte mil) pacientes en 2024. Mientras la comunidad del sur de Utah sigue creciendo, esta ampliación de 5000 pies cuadrados es necesaria para satisfacer las crecientes necesidades de la comunidad y de los millones de turistas y aficionados a las actividades al aire libre que visitan los parques nacionales y las zonas recreativas del área. 

“La ampliación de hoy es más que solo ladrillos y cemento. Representa algo mucho mayor: un compromiso con la salud, la seguridad y el bienestar de cada persona del condado de Iron y más allá”, dijo Darin Adams, jefe del Departamento de Policía de Cedar City.

“Nuestros socorristas confían siempre en este hospital, ya sea para responder a un accidente grave, asistir a víctimas de violencia, atender crisis médicas u obtener autorizaciones médicas. Saben que, cuando los segundos cuentan, Intermountain Cedar City Hospital cumple”, dijo Adams.

Se trata de la primera gran ampliación de Intermountain Cedar City Hospital desde 2006 y forma parte del compromiso del hospital de ofrecer atención médica cerca de casa a los residentes de la zona.

Como parte de la ampliación, el Departamento de Urgencias añadirá nueve salas nuevas, entre ellas, tres salas adicionales de salud conductual, otra sala de traumatología, una sala con capacidad para pacientes bariátricos y salas de exámenes adicionales. 

“Tenemos un aumento del volumen y de las enfermedades en nuestro hospital; así que estas salas adicionales nos permitirán atender más cómodamente a estos pacientes”, dijo Robinett.  

Los cuidadores de Intermountain Health asistieron al acto, junto con miembros de la comunidad.

Las obras ya han comenzado y se espera que Jacobsen Construction finalice la ampliación a principios de 2026.

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Cuatro hospitales de Intermountain Health han sido nombrados entre los 100 mejores hospitales rurales y comunitarios del 2025 según un nuevo estudio nacional de The Chartis Center for Rural Health. 

Intermountain Cedar City Hospital, Intermountain Park City Hospital, Intermountain Bear River Valley Hospital e Intermountain Sevier Valley Hospital formaron parte de la lista de este año. 

“Alrededor del país hay muchas comunidades rurales marginadas de la atención médica, por lo que contar con cuatro hospitales de Intermountain Health en esta lista nacional es una demostración de que nuestros esfuerzos por mejorar la salud en todas las comunidades que atendemos están funcionando”, expresó Lori Weston, presidente de Intermountain Park City Hospital. 

Gracias a la telemedicina y otras innovaciones, Intermountain continúa acercando atención experta a las comunidades rurales. Varios servicios médicos de especialidad ahora están disponibles en estos centros rurales para que los pacientes no deban viajar largas distancias para recibir la atención que necesitan. 

Los servicios de telemedicina y atención virtual han sido útiles al tratar a pacientes oncológicos que pueden tener consultas virtuales con expertos que están lejos. Estas innovaciones también han resultado útiles para que los médicos de la sala de emergencias respondan más rápido en situaciones críticas porque tienen acceso a expertos que pueden guiar un tratamiento más rápido. 

“El programa de premios para los mejores 100 eleva a los mejores y sirve para crear un camino para quienes buscan mejorar el rendimiento financiero y operativo mientras continúan atendiendo a las comunidades”, indicó Michael Topchik, director ejecutivo de The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “Este es nuestro 10.o año honrando a los 100 mejores hospitales rurales y comunitarios y nos complace poder celebrar estos hitos con los ganadores de este año”. 

El estudio anual se realiza para destacar a los hospitales rurales y comunitarios que pueden servir como ejemplo para otros hospitales que buscan mejorar la atención médica en las comunidades que atienden. 

Para ver la lista completa de Chartis para los 100 mejores hospitales rurales y comunitarios del 2025, haga clic aquí. 

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Four Intermountain Health Hospitals have been named Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals for 2025, according to a new national study by The Chartis Center for Rural Health.

Intermountain Cedar City Hospital, Intermountain Park City Hospital, Intermountain Bear River Valley Hospital, and Intermountain Sevier Valley Hospital all made this year’s list.

“Across the country so many rural communities are underserved for healthcare, so having four Intermountain Health hospitals on this national list demonstrates that our efforts to improve health in all communities that we serve is working,” said Lori Weston, president of Intermountain Park City Hospital.

Thanks to telehealth and other innovations, Intermountain continues to bring expert care to rural communities. Several specialty health services are now available at these rural facilities, so patients don’t have to travel long distances to get the care they need.

Telehealth services and virtual care has been especially helpful when treating cancer patients who can have virtual appointments with experts far away. These innovations have also helped emergency room doctors respond faster in critical situations because they have access to experts who can guide treatment faster.

“The Top 100 award program elevates the very best performers and helps create a roadmap for those seeking to improve financial and operational performance while continuing to care for the communities they serve,” said Michael Topchik, executive director of The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “This is our 10th year honoring the Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals, and we’re thrilled to be able to celebrate these milestones with this year’s winners.”

The annual study is meant to highlight rural and community hospitals that can serve as an example to other hospitals seeking to improve healthcare in the communities they serve. Chartis uses publicly available data, along with their own system and metrics, to measure the performance of hospitals.

To see the Chartis full list of Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals for 2025, click here.

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Ocho hospitales de Intermountain Health han recibido altas calificaciones a nivel nacional como centros médicos de mayor desempeño que brindan el más alto nivel de atención a los pacientes. 

Vizient, una empresa líder en mejoras en el desempeño de la atención médica, calificó a estos hospitales de Intermountain como establecimientos con mayor desempeño en la atención médica en su Estudio anual de calidad y responsabilidad. En este estudio, se analizó la información de 860 hospitales y se midió la calidad de la atención al paciente conforme a seis factores: seguridad, eficacia, tasa de mortalidad, eficiencia, enfoque en el paciente y equidad. 

Los hospitales de Intermountain de mayor desempeño son los siguientes: 
• Intermountain Medical Center en Murray 
• Intermountain Utah Valley Hospital en Provo 
• Intermountain Cedar City Hospital 
• Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital en Ogden 
• Intermountain Alta View Hospital en Sandy 
• Intermountain Riverton Hospital 
• Intermountain Layton Hospital 
• Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital 

Obtener una designación de mayor desempeño en el estudio de Vizient refleja la excelencia de un hospital para brindar atención de alta calidad. Los hospitales de Intermountain recibieron una alta calificación en tres de las cuatro categorías. 

“En Intermountain Health, mejoramos la atención utilizando información para identificar e implementar prácticas médicas con el fin de que los pacientes vivan la vida más saludable posible”, dijo Rob Allen, presidente y director ejecutivo de Intermountain. “Ocho de nuestros hospitales alcanzaron altos puestos en la lista de Vizient, lo que valida la atención excepcional que proporcionan nuestros empleados”. 

Vizient otorgó el 1.er puesto a nivel nacional al Hospital Regional de Intermountain en St. George en la lista de los centros médicos de gran tamaño que brindan atención especializada compleja. El hospital McKay-Dee de Intermountain en Ogden obtuvo el 12.o puesto y el hospital Utah Valley de Intermountain en Provo obtuvo el 14.o puesto en la misma categoría. 

En la categoría de centros médicos académicos integrales de mayor desempeño, el Centro Médico de Intermountain en Murray obtuvo el 5.o puesto en la lista nacional. 

Cuatro hospitales de Intermountain Health recibieron la distinción en la lista de los hospitales comunitarios de mayor desempeño: el hospital Alta View de Intermountain en Sandy obtuvo el 2.o puesto y el hospital de Intermountain en Cedar City obtuvo el 4.o puesto en la clasificación nacional. 

El hospital de Intermountain en Riverton y el hospital de Intermountain en Layton también recibieron altas distinciones. 

“Los hospitales líderes aprovechan la información y la analítica para ofrecer resultados clínicos superiores”, indicó David Levine, director médico de Vizient. “Con este premio, se condecora a todos los hospitales de Intermountain Health por demostrar un liderazgo centrado en los resultados, y una cultura colaborativa y la adaptabilidad necesarias para alcanzar el éxito”. 

Para ver la lista completa de hospitales incluidos en la lista de este año, haga clic aquí. 

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Eight Intermountain Health Hospitals have received high national rankings as top performing facilities, providing the highest level of care for patients.

Vizient, a leading health care performance improvement company, ranked the Intermountain hospitals as top health care performers in their annual Quality and Accountability Study, which looked at data from 860 hospitals and measured their quality of patient care based on six factors: safety, effectiveness, mortality, efficiency, patient centeredness, and equity.

The top performing Intermountain hospitals are:

• Intermountain Medical Center in Murray
• Intermountain Utah Valley Hospital in Provo
• Intermountain Cedar City Hospital
• Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden
• Intermountain Alta View Hospital in Sandy
• Intermountain Riverton Hospital
• Intermountain Layton Hospital
• Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital

A top performer designation in the Vizient study reflects a hospital’s excellence in delivering high-quality care. Intermountain facilities were ranked high in three of the four categories.

“At Intermountain Health we improve care by using data to identify and implement medical practices that help patients live the healthiest lives possible,” said Rob Allen, president and CEO of Intermountain. “Having eight of our hospitals rank so high on the Vizient list validates the outstanding care provided by our caregivers.”

Vizient ranked Intermountain St. George Regional Hospitals as No. 1 in the nation for large medical centers that provide specialized complex care. Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden ranked 12th and Intermountain Utah Valley Hospital in Provo ranked 14th in the same category.

For the category of top performing comprehensive academic medical centers, Intermountain Medical Center in Murray ranked 5th on the national list.

Intermountain Health had four hospitals honored on the list of top performing community hospitals with Intermountain Alta View Hospital in Sandy ranking 2nd and Intermountain Cedar City Hospital ranking 4^th in the national rankings.

Intermountain Riverton Hospital and Intermountain Layton hospital also received high honors.

“Leading hospitals are leveraging data and analytics to provide superior clinical outcomes,” said David Levine, chief medical officer for Vizient. “This award honors all Intermountain Health hospitals for demonstrating leadership focused on results and a culture of collaboration and adaptability that is necessary to succeed.”

To see the full list of hospitals on this year’s list, click here.

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Jamison Robinett has been selected as the new president of Intermountain Cedar City Hospital. He will succeed current Cedar City Hospital president Eric Packer, who retires this December after serving for the past eight years.

“Eric will be greatly missed. He is a phenomenal leader who will leave a legacy of excellence for Cedar City Hospital. It has been a pleasure to get to work with him,” said Natalie Ashby, president of the Southwest Utah Acute Care Market of Intermountain’s Desert Region and St. George Regional Hospital. 

Packer culminates a successful career of 38 years in the healthcare community, including 35 years with Intermountain Health, with leading Cedar City Hospital to receive national recognition for their high-quality patient care. Under Packer’s leadership, Cedar City Hospital has seen growth with projects like a new imaging center and a diabetes clinic, as well as numerous healthcare awards. In 2024, Cedar City Hospital ranked number four in the nation for community hospitals by Vizient and was named as a Top 20 Rural Community Hospital nine years in a row, something no hospital has ever achieved. This year, Cedar City hospital was ranked second best in the nation for small community hospitals by Fortune/PINC AI.

His exemplary leadership over the course of his career was recently recognized by the Utah Hospital Association when he was awarded the 2024 Distinguished Healthcare Executive. His commitment to providing quality care in the Southwest Utah region has guided caregivers to build a successful environment of patient-focused care. His impact on the growth and quality of healthcare services in the southern Utah community will be felt for years to come. Packer officially retires December 3rd. During the month of November, he will work to transition responsibilities to Robinett. 

Robinett, who most recently served as Chief Operating Officer at HCA Florida Palms West Hospital in Palm Beach County, Florida, is excited to return to Southwest Utah. He began his healthcare career in Intermountain at the Southern Utah Neurosciences Institute in St George, Utah, where he also met his wife, Shelbie. They are excited to put down roots in Cedar City. Robinett says his biggest passions are caring for the people he serves by fostering caregiver engagement and quality excellence.

Robinett joins Cedar City Hospital from HCA Healthcare where he has held progressive executive leadership positions within the organization over the past five years. While there, he led hospital operations as well as several strategic growth, colleague engagement, and quality improvement functions. During his tenure at Palms West Hospital, Robinett was instrumental in managing over $100 million in capital projects, highlighted by a new patient tower, operating room expansion, ER expansion, and other imaging/procedural projects. 

Under Robinett’s leadership, Palms West saw significant growth in cardiology, surgical, and diagnostic services, and successfully added new programs such as a weight management center and cardiac MRI. Additionally, the hospital proudly increased colleague engagement scores, elevated its CMS star rating, and made major improvements to campus safety and security.

Robinett began his career in health administration at St. Mark's Hospital in Salt Lake City, where he started as an executive resident and was later promoted to associate administrator. He holds a Master of Health Administration degree from the University of Iowa and Bachelor of Health Administration degree from Weber State University.

Robinett considers his greatest accomplishment as being the husband to his beautiful wife, Shelbie, and father to his two daughters. In his spare time, Robinett enjoys being with his family in the mountains, fly-fishing, and hunting. He says he looks forward to serving such an amazing hospital and community.

Intermountain Cedar City Hospital proudly serves the communities in Iron County. The 48-bed hospital is a full-service community hospital that ranks as one of the top community hospitals in the country and is a fully accredited Level IV Trauma Center with more than 450 caregivers. In addition to traditional services, Cedar City Hospital offers a state-of-the-art cancer center, a robust surgical service program and various clinics.  

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WHAT:

Intermountain’s Cedar City Hospital will be holding the annual Family Health Fair and Flu Shoot Out this Saturday, 28, from 9 a.m. to Noon. The fall health fair is held in partnership with the Southwest Public Health Department that gives the community the chance for health resources and activities.

The event is held in Cedar City Hospital’s main entrance concourse and has dozens of booths with activities for the whole family, mental health resources, important health information, and free health screenngs.

The Southwest Public Health Department will once again be joining to hold the Flu Shoot Out. They will be able to administer low or no-cost flu shots. October is typically when influenza rates start to increase and the new immunizations become readily available, setting this health fair as the perfect time to get immunized for the flu season. The community can plan ahead and save time by visiting SWUhealth.org/flu for more information on the flu shot and to prefill out consent forms.

Entry into the Annual Health Fair is FREE.

For more information call (435) 868-5000.

WHEN:

9 am-Noon, MT, Saturday, September 28, 2024

WHERE: 

Cedar City Hospital, 1303 N. Main Street, Cedar City.

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Para muchas madres primerizas, una consulta de lactancia puede ser vital. Es por esto que el Cedar City Hospital está expandiendo sus servicios para madres primerizas con una clínica de lactancia abierta al público a partir del 1.º de agosto, que incluirá consultas en las instalaciones como también oportunidades de telemedicina por parte de asesores de lactancia certificados de Intermountain Health.

La ubicación del Intermountain Health Cedar City Hospital es uno de los diez hospitales de Intermountain que ofrece este apoyo presencial. Este servicio tan necesario permite que un equipo de lactancia ayude a muchas madres a medida que transitan la lactancia materna. Dado que la mayoría de las madres vuelven a sus hogares dentro de las 24 horas luego de dar a luz, una vez que comienzan a cuidar a sus bebés en casa, muchas descubren que tienen preguntas o problemas en relación con la lactancia materna que no tenían cuando estaban en el hospital. Los asesores ayudan a las madres y a sus bebés en cualquier etapa de la lactancia materna.

El Cedar City Hospital tendrá citas disponibles de lunes a viernes entre las 10 a. m y las 2 p. m. con uno de sus cuatro asesores de lactancia para ayudar a abordar preocupaciones como el enganche, la posición, la mastitis, el dolor, las infecciones, la producción de leche, los problemas con la extracción de leche, el destete y más.

Kim Heaton, jefa de lactancia del Cedar City Hospital, decidió convertirse en asesora de lactancia a raíz de que, cuando buscó orientación luego de tener a su primer bebé, no logró encontrar la ayuda que necesitaba. 

Cuando dio a luz a su primer niño, Heaton dijo: “Nadie te explicaba realmente sobre la lactancia o el cuidado del bebé. Simplemente te daban el bebé. Te visitaba una enfermera, pero no recibías capacitación suficiente sobre la lactancia. Eso lo tenías que descifrar tú misma”.

Luego, Heaton añadió: “Es una gran parte del vínculo con mis niños. Quiero que sea más agradable para otras madres”.

De acuerdo con el Centro para el Control de Enfermedades, el sesenta por ciento de las madres no amamantan todo el tiempo que les gustaría. La clínica de lactancia del Cedar City Hospital pretende reducir esta estadística, ya que la lactancia materna proporciona beneficios de salud tanto para la madre como para el bebé. En el caso del bebé, proporciona una nutrición óptima, ayuda al sistema inmunitario, reduce el riesgo de alergias y mejora la salud digestiva. En el caso de la madre, la lactancia materna ayuda a establecer un vínculo emocional y a llevar a cabo la recuperación posparto.

Hoy, Heaton lidera un equipo de asesores capaces de crear una mejor experiencia y proporcionar la capacitación y el apoyo a la lactancia cuando la paciente lo necesita. Su meta es crear una experiencia positiva y saludable para la madre y el bebé.  Además, Heaton sostiene que la consulta de lactancia puede ayudar a las madres a no dejar de amamantar antes de lo planeado.

Para obtener más información sobre las consultas de lactancia virtuales o presenciales, visite el sitio web de apoyo de lactancia de Connect Care. Intermountain también tiene una clase virtual de lactancia disponible para los futuros padres y madres. Es una sesión de dos horas que se ofrece a menudo. Su costo es de $15. 

Puede programar una cita presencial o virtual con la clínica de lactancia del Cedar City Hospital en connect.intermountainhealth.org/utah-lactation-clinics.  

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For many new mothers, a lactation consultation can become a lifeline. That's why Intermountain Cedar City Hospital is expanding its services for new moms with a new lactation clinic.

The new Intermountain lactation clinic  includes onsite consulting, as well as telehealth opportunities from Intermountain Health board-certified lactation consultants.

The Intermountain Cedar City clinic is now one of ten Intermountain hospitals offering this in-person support. 

The much-needed service allows a lactation team to provide the help many moms seek as they navigate breastfeeding. Since most mothers go home within 24 hours of delivering many of them will find that once they start caring for their baby at home, they have questions, or issues with breastfeeding that didn’t exist while in the hospital. The consultants help moms and babies at any stage of breastfeeding.

Intermountain Cedar City Hospital will have available appointments Monday through Friday between 10 am - 2 pm, MT, with one of its four lactation consultants to help address concerns, including issues such  as latching, positioning, mastitis, pain, infection, milk supply, pumping issues, weaning, and more.

Kim Heaton, lacation lead for Intermountain Cedar City Hospital, chose to become a lactation consultant when she was looking for direction after she having her first baby and did not find the help she needed. 

“No one really came in and talked to you about lactation or how to watch your baby. They just gave you the baby.," said Heaton about when she delivered her first child. 
"They would have a nurse come see you but there wasn't a lot of training on breastfeeding. You just had to figure it out for yourself. It's a great bonding thing with my kids. I want to make it nicer for other moms.”

More tha n sixty percent of mothers do not breastfeed for as long as they intend, according to the Centers for Disease Control, . 

The Intermountain Cedar City Hospital Lactation Clinic hopes to reduce that statistic as breastfeeding provides health benefits for both mother and baby. 

For the newborn, breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition, immune system support, reduces the risk of allergies, and improves digestive health. For moms, breastfeeding helps with emotional bonding and postpartum recovery.

Now, Heaton is leading a team of consultants who can create a better experience and provide that training and lactation support whenever a patient needs it. 

Their goal is to create a positive and healthy experience for mother and baby.  In addition, Heaton says that lactation consultation can help moms from abandoning breastfeeding sooner than they planned.

For more information about virtual or in-person lactation consultations, visit the Connect Care lactation support webpage. Intermountain Health also has a virtual breastfeeding class available for expectant parents. It’s a one session, two-hour class and offered regularly. The cost is $15. 

In-person and virtual appointments can be made at the Intermountain Cedar City Hospital Lactation Clinic by visiting connect.intermountainhealth.org/utah-lactation-clinics.  

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Dos cuidadores del Intermountain Cedar City Hospital obtuvieron el reconocimiento a la "Respuesta del año" por parte de la Utah Emergency Management Association por su actuación rápida, colaboración con la comunidad y capacidad para movilizarse tras las inundaciones extremas del año pasado.

El Cedar City Hospital se vio afectado gravemente por una inundación en agosto de 2023. La coordinadora del Emergency Management Program, Jody Johnson, junto el jefe de enfermería del Infusion Center, Tom Giles, se encargaron de dirigir la respuesta para que el establecimiento siguiera en funcionamiento y se pudiera tratar a los pacientes.

"Su dedicación permitió a los residentes recibir atención médica constante cerca de sus casas sin tener que trasladarse a St. George o Salt Lake City. Su liderazgo durante la respuesta y recuperación refleja el compromiso con la comunidad y el servicio por encima de uno mismo", declaró Julianne Ehlers, coordinadora del Intermountain Emergency Management Program por Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital en Lehi.

Las inundaciones afectaron al departamento de urgencias, al centro de cáncer y a muchas otras zonas de atención al paciente. Para mantener el hospital en funcionamiento, los cuidadores aportaron soluciones con gran rapidez, mientras Johnson, como coordinador del Emergency Management Program, trabajaba con socorristas locales para responder a las necesidades de la comunidad.

"Como coordinadora de la administración de emergencias, debo prever los desastres con la esperanza de que no ocurran, pero el día en que este se produjo, las fuertes lluvias no tardaron en entrar al edificio", dijo Johnson.

Los cuidadores y voluntarios de la comunidad se encargaron de llenar y distribuir sacos de arena en todo el hospital durante dos días. También se cavaron zanjas para desviar el agua de inundación y hubo una preparación para afrontar posibles lluvias.

El Cancer Center and Infusion Center es uno de los grandes centros de atención al paciente que se vio afectado por la inundación. Giles comprendió que debía encontrar una forma de ofrecer atención crítica constante a sus pacientes oncológicos. Trasladó equipos, materiales y personal al centro de conferencias del hospital, que suele utilizarse para reuniones y fines educativos.

"Lo más asombroso fue que Tom y su equipo modificaron y reubicaron nuestro departamento de cáncer e infusión para que ningún paciente de la comunidad tuviera que salir de ella para recibir estos servicios", afirmó Travis Fullmer, administrador de enfermería del Cedar City Hospital.

La junta directiva de UEMA celebró el liderazgo de Johnson y Giles, y de los cuidadores del hospital, en su ceremonia anual de entrega de premios UEMA: "Su excepcional respuesta ante el episodio de las inundaciones de 2023 no pasó desapercibida y es un honor para nosotros reconocer su destacado servicio. La junta directiva de UEMA considera que su inquebrantable dedicación es un claro ejemplo del espíritu de excelencia que queremos reconocer a través de este premio."

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Two Intermountain Cedar City Hospital caregivers were recognized for the “Response of the Year” by the Utah Emergency Management Association for their quick response, community collaboration and ability to mobilize from last year’s extreme flooding.

In August of 2023 Cedar City Hospital was seriously impaired by flooding, and Emergency Management Program Coordinator Jody Johnson and Infusion Center Nurse Manager Tom Giles helped lead the response to keep the facility open to treat patients.

“Their dedication made it possible for residents to continually receive medical care close to home instead of having to travel St. George or Salt Lake City. Their leadership during response and recovery defines commitment to community and service above self,” said Julianne Ehlers, Intermountain Emergency Management Program Coordinator for Primary Children’s Hospital at Lehi.

The emergency department, cancer center, and several other patient care areas were impacted by flood waters. To keep the hospital operational, caregivers responded quickly with solutions while Johnson, in his role as the Emergency Management Program Coordinator, worked with local first responders for community responses.

“As the Emergency Management Coordinator, you plan for disasters with the hope that no one has to experience a disaster, but the day disaster struck, it didn’t take long before the heavy rain found its way into the building,” said Johnson.

Caregivers and community volunteers spent two days filling and distributing sandbags around the hospital. Other recovery efforts included digging trenches to redirect flood waters and preparing for threats of more rain.

One of the larger patient care areas affected by the flood was the Cancer Center and Infusion Center. Giles realized they needed to find a way to provide ongoing critical care to their cancer patients. He moved equipment, materials and team to the hospital’s conference center, typically used for meetings and educational purposes.

“What was so amazing was that Tom and his team adjusted and relocated our cancer and infusion department so that zero patients in our community had to leave the community for cancer and infusion services,” said Travis Fullmer, Cedar City Hospital Nurse Administrator.

The UEMA Governing Board celebrated the leadership of Johnson and Giles, and the hospital caregivers, at their annual UEMA awards ceremony by stating, “Your exceptional response to the 2023 flooding incident has not gone unnoticed, and it is our honor to recognize your outstanding service. The Governing Board of UEMA believes your unwavering dedication exemplifies the spirit of excellence that we aim to celebrate through this award.”

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Fortune magazine and PINC AI have ranked Intermountain Medical Center in Murray as the number one major teaching hospital in the nation for 2024.

In addition, nine other Intermountain hospitals in Utah were ranked among the nation’s best hospitals on this year’s top 100 hospitals list, according to PINC AI and Fortune.

“When 10 percent of all the hospitals on a prestigious list like Fortune are from Intermountain Health, it shows how the innovative, caring and compassionate work our caregivers do on a daily basis is helping fulfill our vision of being a model health system – a charge given when our system was formed in 1975,” said Rob Allen, president and CEO of Intermountain Health. “I’m proud of our caregivers for the work they do and the impact it has on our communities. Their work is an inspiration to me and to others.”

The Fortune rankings analyzed publicly available data from more than 2,600 hospitals across the nation to determine top performers in clinical outcomes, patient experience, operational efficiency, and financial health.

“Our caregivers are at the forefront of innovation in healthcare and Intermountain Medical Center being ranked the top teaching hospital in the country shows that our vision is working,” said Ralph Jean-Mary, CEO of Intermountain Medical Center in Murray.

The annual Fortune and PINC AI Top 100 list is broken down into multiple categories with 40 being for teaching hospitals, and the remaining 60 slots for community hospitals.

Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital was listed forth for teaching hospitals while Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital placed second in the category for Large Community Hospitals.

Others making this year’s Top 100 list are:

-       Intermountain Logan Regional Hospital

-       Intermountain Alta View Hospital in Sandy

-       Intermountain American Fork Hospital

-       Intermountain Cedar City Hospital

-       Intermountain Layton Hospital

-       Intermountain Park City Hospital

-       Intermountain Riverton Hospital

To see the full Fortune Top Hospitals List for 2024, click here.

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