Vizient has recognized 14 Intermountain Health hospitals with its 2026 Bernard A. Birnbaum, MD, Quality Leadership Award for excellence in high-quality clinical and patient care.

The award recognizes hospitals that excel in the Vizient Quality and Accountability Study, which measures performance in six categories: safety, mortality, effectiveness, efficiency, patient centeredness, and variation in care using 2025-2026 data.

"These awards recognize more than performance measures. They reflect thousands of everyday decisions made by caregivers who put patients first," said Cara Camiolo, MD, Intermountain Health Chief Quality and Safety Officer. "Maintaining this level of clinical quality and safety while navigating a major Epic implementation speaks to the skill, resilience, and commitment of teams across Intermountain Health. We are honored to see that commitment reflected in this national recognition."

The following 14 Intermountain Health hospitals were named as top performers in their respective categories. First-time honorees include Intermountain Health Delta Community Hospital and Intermountain Health Lutheran Hospital.

Comprehensive Academic Medical Center

· Intermountain Health Intermountain Medical Center (Murray, Utah)

Large, Specialized Complex Care Medical Center

· Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital (Utah)
· Intermountain Health McKay-Dee Hospital (Ogden, Utah)
· Intermountain Health Utah Valley Hospital (Provo, Utah)
· Intermountain Health Lutheran Hospital (Wheat Ridge, Colo.)

Complex Care Medical Center

· Intermountain Health Saint Joseph Hospital (Denver)

Critical Access Hospital

· Intermountain Health Delta Community Hospital (Utah)
· Intermountain Health Heber Valley Hospital (Utah)

Community Hospital

· Intermountain Health American Fork Hospital (Utah)
· Intermountain Health LDS Hospital (Salt Lake City)

Small Community Hospital

· Intermountain Health Layton Hospital (Utah)
· Intermountain Health Park City Hospital (Utah)
· Intermountain Health Sevier Valley Hospital (Richfield, Utah)
· Intermountain Health Spanish Fork Hospital (Spanish Fork, Utah)

According to Vizient, top-performing hospitals demonstrate an exceptional commitment to safe, effective, and patient-centered care by delivering the right care, at the right time, without harm or waste in an Always Safe environment.

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Intermountain Health caregivers can now respond more quickly when patients need urgent care thanks to the opening of a new 

The new base brings crews, equipment, maintenance and support spaces together just steps from the hospital’s helipad and Emergency Department.

With quicker access to equipment and aircraft, crews expect to reduce lift times for medical helicopters and reach patients roughly five to 10 minutes sooner.

“Even a few minutes can change an outcome,” said Rex Jacobsen, operations manager for Intermountain Health Flight & Ambulance Services in southern Utah. “This setup helps us get to patients and get them the care they need faster.”

For years, flight and ambulance teams worked from several locations across the Intermountain St. George Hospital campus, with supplies spread out and crews coordinating across different spaces. 

The new base centralizes those operations, giving pilots, mechanics and clinical teams easier access to the supplies, aircraft and support they need.

“This new space is designed to remove barriers and help our teams move faster when patients need us the most,” Jacobsen said.

The base supports 911 responses and interfacility transfers originating within approximately 150 miles of St. George. Clinical teams based at the facility care for adult, pediatric, neonatal and high-risk obstetric patients.

The new space includes a shared team area, day room, and kitchen, giving caregivers a place to rest and recover between calls. Centralized supplies and nearby maintenance support also help crews remain prepared for the next transport.

Located near the Emergency Department, the base allows transport crews to move more quickly between a patient’s bedside and an aircraft or ambulance.

The proximity also supports communication and continuity of care among flight, ambulance, and other hospital teams.

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Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital has been named the No. 1 Best Hospital in Utah by U.S. News & World Report in its 2026-27 Best Hospitals rankings and ratings.

The recognition places St. George Regional Hospital among the nation's top-performing hospitals and reflects its longstanding commitment to delivering exceptional care to patients across Southern Utah and the surrounding region.

The hospital was rated for its strong performance in 18 adult procedures and conditions, including abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, aortic valve surgery, back surgery (spinal fusion), colon cancer surgery and ear, nose and throat surgery. Additionally, 92% of patients said they would recommend the hospital to others, reflecting strong performance in patient experience and quality of care.

"Every day, our caregivers, physicians, and support come together to provide exceptional care for the patients and families who trust us with their health, said Natalie Ashby, president of Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital. "This recognition reflects the dedication to improving outcomes, advancing the patient experience, and helping people live the healthiest lives possible. We are honored to serve as a healthcare resource for this region and grateful for the trust they place in us."

Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital serves as a major referral center for southwest Utah and the surrounding region, providing advanced specialty and tertiary care close to home. The hospital continues to invest in technology, innovation, and highly skilled caregivers to meet the growing healthcare needs of the communities it serves.

According to U.S. News & World Report, more than 4,400 hospitals were evaluated for this year's rankings, with only 505 hospitals earning recognition as Best Regional Hospitals across 49 states and the District of Columbia.

"This recognition speaks to our ongoing commitment to delivering the highest-quality care and creating a better experience for every patient we serve," Ashby said. "While rankings are meaningful, our focus remains on caring for our communities and ensuring every patient receives compassionate, personalized care.”

The complete 2026-27 Best Hospitals rankings are available through U.S. News & World Report.

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Intermountain Health's Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program (RESEP), also known as the Downwinders Clinic, will host free public meetings across Utah to provide information about the recently reinstated Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) and help individuals determine whether they or a loved one may qualify for compensation.

The educational meetings will explain changes made to the federal program, including newly eligible geographic areas and expanded access for individuals affected by radioactive fallout from Cold War-era nuclear testing and uranium industry activities.

Attendees will have an opportunity to:

• Learn about the reinstated and expanded RECA program.
• Determine whether they may qualify for compensation.
• Receive applications and educational materials.
• Learn about the online application portal.
• Ask questions about eligibility and the claims process.

Individuals who have completed an application may also schedule a one-on-one review appointment to ensure documents are complete before submission.

The term "downwinder" refers to individuals who were exposed to radioactive fallout from atmospheric nuclear testing conducted at the Nevada Test Site. Many affected individuals and families live throughout Utah, Nevada, Arizona, Idaho and New Mexico.

Under the reinstated law, eligible individuals may qualify for compensation through the federal RECA program.

Public Meeting Schedule:

Thursday, July 30, 2026
St. George
Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital Cancer Center
Building 7, Classrooms A, B and C
600 S. Medical Center Drive
4-5 p.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026
Provo/Orem
Utah Valley Hospital
Sorenson Tower, Building 4
Second Floor, Classrooms 1, 2 and 3
395 Cougar Blvd.
2-3 p.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026
Salt Lake City
Intermountain Medical Center
Doty Family Education Center, Building 6
West Auditorium
5121 S. Cottonwood St.
6-7 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026
Logan
Logan Public Library
285 N. Main St.
1-2 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 7, 2026
Ogden
McKay-Dee Hospital
Thomas Dee Auditorium
4401 Harrison Blvd.
Noon-1 p.m.

Application Review Appointments (Appointment Required)

Friday, July 31, 2026
St. George Regional Hospital Cancer Center
Downwinders Clinic Office
1-5 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026
Intermountain Medical Center
Transformation Center, Room 103
5026 S. State St.
10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 7, 2026
McKay-Dee Hospital
Thomas Dee Auditorium
2-6 p.m.

To schedule an application review appointment or for additional information, call the Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program (Downwinders Clinic) at 435-251-4760.

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Nine Intermountain Health hospitals were named to Modern Healthcare’s 2026 100 Top Hospitals list, based on an independent national quality analysis conducted by Premier, Inc.

Intermountain Medical Center (Murray, Utah) was ranked as one of the nation’s top teaching hospitals and was the only Utah hospital recognized in that category.

Intermountain St. George Regional, Intermountain McKay-Dee (Ogden, Utah), and Intermountain Utah Valley (Provo, Utah) hospitals were ranked among the nation’s top 100 hospitals in the Large Community Hospital category list. Intermountain Logan Regional Hospital was also ranked in the Medium Community Hospital category.

Intermountain Layton Hospital topped the Small Community Hospital list, being joined by Intermountain American Fork Hospital, Intermountain Alta View Hospital (Sandy, Utah), and Intermountain Riverton Hospital.

In addition, Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital, Intermountain Utah Valley Hospital, and Intermountain Layton Hospital were further honored as Everest Award Winners, a designation for hospitals that show both top performance and strong improvement over time on Premier’s balanced scorecard.

“We are gratified by this recognition because it shows the incredible work and dedication of our caregivers to provide high-quality care,” said Rob Allen, president and CEO of Intermountain Health. “This recognition validates that we are delivering on our mission of helping people live the healthiest lives possible and our vision to be a model health system.”

Modern Healthcare and Premier collect data from nearly 2,600 hospitals nationwide and apply a data-based methodology to identify top performers using a scorecard of clinical, operational, financial, and patient experience measures.

The results are supported by detailed insights and national benchmarks hospitals can use to improve care, strengthen financial sustainability, and improve outcomes. Measures include inpatient mortality and complication indexes, average length of stay, operational efficiency, and patient outcomes.

To see the full Modern Healthcare / Premier Top Hospitals List for 2026, go to https://www.modernhealthcare.com/awards/mh-premier-100-top-hospitals-2026/.

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The RESEP (Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program) clinic from St. George Regional Hospital will be holding public informational meetings in several Utah cities on March 18^th, 19^th, 20^th, 21^st and 24^th. These meetings are to inform the public about the reinstatement and expansion of the RECA program, what areas now qualify and to give applications.

This is a free service. Come receive information regarding what new areas now qualify to apply for the RECA compensation as well as the new increased compensation amount. If you have called asking for an application to be sent and they have not been able to call you back, applications will be available. The online portal will also be discussed. If you are ready to submit your application and would like it reviewed, they will be doing application reviews one hour before and one hour after the Provo, Ogden, Price and St. George meetings. Unfortunately, if you have already been compensated by the RECA program, the law does not allow you to apply for any additional money.

The term “Downwinder” is used to describe people who were exposed to radioactive fallout in Arizona, Nevada and Utah, Idaho and New Mexico during the nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site.  Local residents, and their families, are encouraged to come have their questions answered about the program.

Meetings will be held at the following dates and sites:

Wednesday, March 18, 2026    Provo/Orem—Utah Valley Hospital, Sorenson Tower, Bldg 4,               

                                                                         2nd Floor, Classrooms 1, 2 & 3, 395 Cougar Blvd, 2:00-3:00pm

Thursday, March 19, 2026        Ogden—McKay-Dee Hospital, Thomas Dee Auditorium,

                                                                           4401 Harrison Blvd, 5:00-6:00pm

Friday, March 20, 2026              Moab—Grand County Library, 257 E. Center St, 2:00-3:00pm

Saturday, March 21, 2026         Price—Active Re-Entry Independent Living Center, 10 South   

                                                                          Fairgrounds Rd., 12:00-1:00 pm

Tuesday, March 24, 2026           St. George—Cancer Center, Bldg 7, Classrooms A, B & C,

                                                                          600 South Medical Center Dr, 5:00-6:00pm

For questions, please call 435-251-4760.

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Surrounded by community leaders and former and current Intermountain Health presidents, Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital unveiled new permanent displays Thursday that bring the region's medical history to life. 
 

The exhibits showcase historic medical instruments, physician keepsakes, and preserved artifacts from those who helped shape healthcare in Washington County.  

The new displays are located on the hospital's main floor and include historical artifacts that trace the evolution of care in the region over the past 100 years. 

Natalie Ashby, president at Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital helped unveil the displays with three previous presidents: Mitch Cloward, Terri Kane, and Steve Wilson. 

Ashby said it was an honor to have them together as their vision helped bring the hospital to where it is today. 

“I stand on the shoulders of giants. I am so thankful for what they did,” said Ashby. “We’ve all been blessed, and I know each of them in their tenure had unique challenges. Since I have sat in this chair, each one of them has given me advice, counsel, and shared stories. I can never repay that.” 

The displays include a vintage wheelchair, a preserved nursing uniform, surgical tools, and notes featuring quotes and historical lessons.  

Returning the historical items back to the hospital required time, persistence, and community effort. Some were even discovered by sure luck when community members found them collecting dust in a home garage. 

They reached out Terri Draper, a longtime caregiver at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. 

Draper decided to make it a mission to start collecting more memorabilia and historical items.  

Draper, who retired from Intermountain Health in January, was able to work with team members to get them permanently preserved and now on display for the public. 

The origins of healthcare and Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital date back to 1913, when Washington County Hospital first opened their doors to the community. 

Several iterations of the hospital would come as the surrounding area grew. In 1975, the hospital was part of 15 hospitals system operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

The Church donated all the hospitals in Utah, and turned over operations, to the new Intermountain Healthcare system. 

“As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to fully appreciate how difficult it was for those first pioneer families to make a settlement in this desert community. That would have been 1860, back before air conditioning and ice cubes,” said Steve Wilson, former president at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. “I appreciate progress. It doesn’t happen easily; it doesn’t happen simply.” 

Now, Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital has a wide, extensive campus located on River Road in St. George. 

Plaques honoring each version of the hospital were created several years ago along the first-floor hallway. The new historical artifact displays are now in place in the same area – creating a gallery dedicated to honor important history.       

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The New Year began with joy and celebration at Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital, where Utah’s first baby of 2026 was born. 

At 12:09 am on January 1, Valley Zohner made her grand entrance into the world. Her delighted parents, Kenedi and Zach, are thrilled to welcome their precious daughter to their family.

The Zohners live in Cedar City but chose to deliver at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital because their OBGYN works there. They had been anticipating the baby's arrival, and wanted to be prepared, so they had been staying Christmas week with family in St. George.

The plan was to arrive on New Year’s Eve to start her inducement, only to be surprised to find that she was already mid-labor when she arrived for her appointment. Kenedi said she  just was not feeling the contractions. With no inducement needed, the baby was near her arrival.

"This delivery was very easy and went very well. Baby came very fast and easy compared to my last baby,” said Kenedi Zohner. “All of the nurses have been nice, and lovely. They are great at their jobs.”

Valley weighed 6 pounds,1 ounce, and measured  20.5 inches long.

In 2025, there were 2,753 babies born at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital.

The new parents received a prize basket from Intermountain Health to celebrate the New Year's birth which included generous donations from Utah-based baby product vendors: Minky Couture; Loulou and Company; and Over the Moon.

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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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The RESEP (Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program) clinic at Intermountain  St. George Regional Hospital will be holding public informational meetings in several Utah cities on October 13, 16, 17, and 18, 2025. 

These meetings are to inform the public about the reinstatement and expansion of the RECA program and what areas now qualify.

The public is invited to attend abd receive information regarding what new areas now qualify to apply for the RECA compensation as well as the new increased compensation amount. 

If people have called asking for an application to be sent and they have not been able to call you back, applications will be available.

 Unfortunately, for those who have already been compensated by the RECA program, the law does not allow them to apply for any additional money.

The term “Downwinder” is used to describe people who were exposed to radioactive fallout in Arizona, Nevada and Utah, Idaho and New Mexico during the nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site. 

Local residents, and their families, are encouraged to come have their questions answered about the program.

Meetings will be held at the following dates and sites:

 For additional questions, please call 435-251-4760. 

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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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El Centro Estadounidense de Acreditación de Enfermeras (ANCC, por sus siglas en inglés) reconoció al St. George Regional Hospital de Intermountain Health como institución Magnet, el más alto honor en excelencia en enfermería como reconocimiento por su destacada seguridad e innovadora atención para pacientes.

El Programa de Reconocimiento Magnet nombra a organizaciones de todo el mundo en las que los líderes de enfermería alinean de manera exitosa las metas estratégicas de enfermería para mejorar los resultados de los pacientes de la organización.

Las instalaciones Magnet cumplen rigurosos estándares de excelencia en enfermería y se las reconoce por tener las tasas más bajas de mortalidad, las estadías más cortas y una mayor satisfacción de los pacientes y del personal. Se reconoció al St. George Regional Hospital por el alto nivel de compromiso del personal de enfermería y las puntuaciones de calidad en la atención de los pacientes internados.

“Obtener el estado Magnet requiere visión y dedicación”, afirmó Natlie Ashby, presidenta del St. George Regional Hospital.  “Estoy encantada de que nuestro personal de enfermería del St. George Regional Hospital haya obtenido este prestigioso nombramiento. Su arduo trabajo y compasión son realmente admirables y estoy extremadamente agradecida por la atención excepcional que brindan a nuestra comunidad todos los días”.

El estado Magnet es importante tanto para los cuidadores como para el personal de enfermería. El reconocimiento Magnet significa capacitación y desarrollo en todas las etapas de la carrera profesional, lo que deriva en una mayor autonomía en la atención al paciente. Para los pacientes, significa la garantía de recibir la mejor atención, que el personal de enfermería presta gracias al apoyo necesario para brindar lo mejor.

“Estamos muy orgullosos de que el St. George Regional Hospital haya obtenido el nombramiento Magnet, un honor que refleja los más altos estándares de excelencia clínica, compromiso de los cuidadores y atención compasiva”, indicó Mandy Richards, doctora en enfermería (DNP, por sus siglas en inglés), enfermera registrada (RN, por sus siglas en inglés), directora ejecutiva de enfermería de Intermountain Health. “Este reconocimiento importante es una prueba del estupendo trabajo que nuestro personal de enfermería realiza todos los días para cuidar a nuestros pacientes y comunidades. Estamos sumamente agradecidos por la dedicación, la habilidad y los resultados excepcionales que ayudan a conseguir”.

Aproximadamente el 10 % de los hospitales de todo el país logran alcanzar este nombramiento. Este es el tercer hospital de Utah en recibir el estado Magnet, el segundo hospital de Intermountain después del Primary Children’s Hospital de Intermountain Health y el séptimo hospital de Intermountain en total.

“El reconocimiento Magnet refleja los estándares y las prácticas excepcionales que mantiene nuestro equipo de enfermería”, afirmó Reuben Evans, director de enfermería del St. George Regional Hospital. “Es motivo de orgullo para nosotros, ya que destaca la atención compasiva e innovadora que presta nuestro personal de enfermería todos los días. Además, es un honor formar parte de este distinguido grupo de proveedores de atención médica”.

La Academia Estadounidense de Enfermería (American Academy of Nursing) desarrolló el Programa de Reconocimiento Magnet para destacar a los hospitales que fueron capaces de atraer y retener a los mejores profesionales de enfermería.

Las instituciones Magnet demuestran excelencia en cinco áreas:

• Liderazgo transformador
• Empoderamiento estructural
• Práctica profesional ejemplar
• Nuevos conocimientos, innovaciones y mejoras
• Resultados empíricos

En el informe del ANCC se señaló que los cuidadores del St. George Regional Hospital obtuvieron resultados superiores en distintas áreas, incluida la baja incidencia de infecciones de las vías urinarias, infecciones del torrente sanguíneo y errores quirúrgicos, entre otras.

Puede obtener más información sobre el St. George Regional Hospital en intermountainhealth.org. 

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Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital has been recognized as a Magnet Facility^® by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) – the highest honor internationally for nursing excellence and recognition of its outstanding safety and innovative care for patients.

The Magnet Recognition Program designates organizations worldwide where nursing leaders successfully align their nursing strategic goals to improve the organization’s patient outcomes. This also includes interprofessional teams, as well.

Magnet facilities meet rigorous standards for nursing excellence and are recognized because they have lower mortality rates, shorter lengths of stay, and increased patient and staff satisfaction. 

Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital was also recognized for having high nurse engagement and inpatient quality scores.

"Achieving Magnet Designation requires vision and dedication,” said Natalie Ashby, president of Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital.  “I am thrilled our nurses at St. George Regional Hospital have earned this prestigious designation. Their hard work and compassion are truly commendable, and I am profoundly grateful for the exceptional care they provide to our community every day."

The Magnet designation is important for the caregivers as for nurses. Magnet Recognition means education and development through every career stage, which leads to greater autonomy at the bedside. To patients, it means the assurance of the very best care, delivered by nurses who are supported to be the very best that they can be.

“We are incredibly proud that Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital has earned Magnet Designation – an honor that reflects the highest standards of clinical excellence, caregiver engagement, and compassionate care,” said Mandy Richards, DNP, RN, chief nursing executive for Intermountain Health. “This important recognition is a testament to the extraordinary work our nurses do every day to care for our patients and communities. We are deeply grateful for their dedication, skill, and the exceptional outcomes they help make possible.”

Approximately 10 percent of the hospitals globally achieve the designation. This is the third hospital in Utah to receive Magnet Designation, the second Intermountain hospital after Intermountain Health Primary Children’s Hospital, and the seventh overall Intermountain Hospital.

"Magnet Recognition reflects the exceptional standards and practices upheld by our nursing team,” said Reuben Evans, chief nursing officer for Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. “It is a proud moment for us, as it highlights the compassionate and innovative care our nurses deliver every day. We are honored to be part of this distinguished group of healthcare providers."

The Magnet Recognition Program^® was developed by the American Academy of Nursing to highlight hospitals that could attract and retain top nursing professionals.

Magnet facilities demonstrate excellence in five areas:

• Transformational Leadership
• Structural Empowerment
• Exemplary Professional Practice
• New Knowledge, Innovations, and Improvements
• Empirical Outcomes

The ANCC report noted that St. George Regional Hospital’s caregivers outperformed in several areas, including low urinary tract infections, blood stream infections, low surgical errors, among others.

Learn more about Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital at intermountainhealth.org. 

La clínica de Compensación por Exposición a la Radiación y Programa educativo (RESEP, por sus siglas en inglés) del St. George Regional Hospital realizará reuniones informativas públicas en varias ciudades del sur de Utah los días 27 y 28 de junio de 2025. Estas reuniones tienen el propósito de informar al público sobre el estado del programa de Compensación por Exposición a la Radiación (RECA, por sus siglas en inglés) y los proyectos de ley pendientes que han sido presentados al Congreso.

Al año de la expiración de RECA, acuda a recibir información sobre la situación del programa y los posibles proyectos de ley para conseguir su reincorporación o ampliación. Le brindarán información general sobre la historia del RECA y sobre lo que el Congreso está haciendo para su reincorporación. Si usted o alguien que conoce tiene cáncer y hubiera calificado para el RECA antes del vencimiento, venga y brinde su información de contacto con el fin de que la clínica de Downwinder pueda contactarse con usted cuando la ley RECA sea aprobada y acepte solicitudes de nuevo.

El término “Downwinder” se utiliza para describir a las más de 60,000 (sesenta mil) personas que estuvieron expuestas a la lluvia radiactiva en Arizona, Nevada y Utah durante las pruebas nucleares en el sitio de pruebas de Nevada.  Se recomienda a los residentes locales y a sus familias que vayan a obtener respuestas sobre el programa y su estado.

Las reuniones se realizarán en las siguientes fechas y lugares:

  Viernes 27 de junio de 2025   en la Biblioteca Pública de Kanab, 374 North Main Street, de 1:00 a 2:00 p. m.

  Viernes 27 de junio de 2025   en la Oficina municipal de Panguitch, 25 South 200 East de 4:00 a 5:00 p. m.

  Sábado 28 de junio de 2025,   Richfield, Snow College Admin Rm 147 A&D, de 10:00 a 11:00 a. m.

  Sábado 28 de junio de 2025   Salina, North Sevier Recreation Center, 373 W. 400 N, 2:00 a 3:00 p. m.

Si tiene preguntas, comuníquese al 435-251-4760.

EL DISTANCIAMIENTO SOCIAL Y LA MASCARILLA SON OPCIONALES

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The RESEP (Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program) Clinic at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital is holding public informational meetings in several southern Utah cities on June 27 and 28. 

These meetings are to inform the public about the status of the RECA program and pending bills that have been submitted to Congress.

At the one-year anniversary of the expiration of RECA, come receive information regarding the program’s status and possible bills to get it reinstated or expanded. They will give general information about the history of RECA and what Congress is currently doing to try to get it reinstated. 

If you or someone you know has cancer and would have qualified for RECA before the expiration, please come and give your contact information so that the Downwinder’s Clinic can contact you when the RECA law is passed and again taking applications.

The term “Downwinder” is used to describe the more than 60,000 people who were exposed to radioactive fallout in Arizona, Nevada and Utah during the nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site.  Local residents, and their families, are encouraged to come have their questions answered about the program and its status.

Meetings will be held at the following dates and sites:

  • Friday, June 27, 2025   Kanab Public Library, 374 North Main Street, 1-2 pm

 •  Friday, June 27, 2025   Panguitch City Office, 25 South 200 East, 4-5 pm

  • Saturday, June 28, 2025   Richfield, Snow College Admin Rm 147 A&D, 10-11 am

  • Saturday, June 28, 2025   Salina, North Sevier Recreation Center, 373 W. 400 N, 2-3 pm

For questions, please call 435-251-4760. Social distancing and masks are optional. 

Intermountain Health leaders and caregivers on Friday held a special groundbreaking ceremony for the health system’s newest facility in southwest Utah, the Desert Color Parkway Clinic - Primary Care, which will increase access to vital medical services for area residents. 

Surrounded by state and county leaders, participants used ceremonial shovels to turn the first dirt on the new medical expansion in Southern Washington County. 

The new Intermountain primary clinic will serve as immediate need for the growing St. George community. The 35-acre lot will also provide space for a future medical campus to expand to include a freestanding emergency department after the opening of the Primary Clinic.

The project will be managed by Jacobsen Construction.  

“This is our longstanding commitment to the community of our mission of helping people live the healthiest lives possible,” said Natalie Ashby, president of St. George Regional Hospital and the Southwest market for Intermountain Health. “This area has been growing immensely, and we are working to make healthcare as accessible as we can.”  

The Desert Color development is becoming a pivotal community area with retail stores, entertainment, offices, restaurants, and recreational selections. Desert Colors is already building into a hub for the major population growth that St. George, and surrounding cities, have seen and projected to come for the foreseeable future. 

Intermountain’s new clinic will bring care closer to home for the growing community. 

“Our mission to help people live the healthiest lives possible begins with the relationship you have with your primary care provider. Our proactive care approach starts with bringing accessible care to the communities we serve,” said Jeremy Cox, market vice president of medical group operations for primary care for Intermountain’s Health’s Desert Region. “As your partner in healthcare, our caregivers are dedicated to ensuring your unique needs are met on your wellness journey.”  

The primary clinic, which is expected to open by summer of 2026, will offer more family medicine and internal medicine services to the St. George community. The clinic space is located directly southeast off exit 2 on I-15. 

“Desert Color’s primary mission is to ‘build a better community.’ And while having unique recreational amenities is great, having an Intermountain Health Primary Care Clinic and campus in Desert Color that can provide ready-access to health and wellness professionals and services is a priceless value-add to the community,” said Daniel Lemich, general manager of Desert Color.  

“The SunRiver St George Community is excited about the upcoming groundbreaking ceremony for the Intermountain Health Desert Color Parkway Clinic,” said Doug Brown, president of the Board of Trustees for SunRiver St George Community Association, Inc. “We are pleased that this new facility will bring essential healthcare services to the rapidly growing southern region of St. George, enhancing access to medical care for residents of SunRiver and surrounding communities.”

The public can keep up to date with the location and find services at intermountainhealth.org.
 

Intermountain Health is innovating orthopedic surgery in Southern Utah, adding robotic assisted knee replacement surgeries, where computer data is tailored to each patient’s anatomy in preparation for the surgery.

This cutting-edge robotic assisted technology gives surgeons and patients another option for orthopedic surgeries.

Intermountain Health's Southwest Orthopedics/Sports Medicine Clinic in St. George, Utah, is the first in the region to offer VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Surgery for total knee replacements.

This new advanced surgery, introduced in St. George in November 2024, enables a more personalized, precise, and efficient knee replacement experience.

Orthopedic surgeons Robert Jamieson, MD, and Darin K. Allred, MD, were the first to use it complete more than 500 total replacements a year and more than 250 robotic assisted knee replacements to date.

“The key to this technology is it enhances the preparation and accuracy while also better customizing the care for each patient,” said Dr. Jamieson. "It allows us to really know the end from the beginning."

St. George resident Jay Sessions had the VELYS Robotic-Assisted surgery for his knee procedure in January 2025, and called the experience "pure joy".

Before the surgery, Sessions said his mobility was limited to the point where he would fall over, but since his procedure, he's felt no pain.

“Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty offers several significant benefits for patients undergoing joint replacement surgery," said Dr. Allred. “This advanced technology allows for enhanced precision during the procedure, enabling surgeons to plan and execute the operation with greater accuracy.”

The robot can identify minute differences in the patient’s knee and then assist the surgeons in aligning the implants more precisely to a patient’s unique anatomy, which can improve joint function and increase the longevity of the implant.

“Additionally, robotic assistance can result in smaller incisions, reduced soft tissue damage, and less post-operative pain,” said Dr. Allred. “These advantages often lead to quicker recovery times, shorter hospital stays, and better overall outcomes for patients.”

While the technology is a welcome addition to the orthopedic program, there are still surgeries being done with traditional means and those are discussed on a case by case scenario between patients and physicians.

Learn more about orthopedic needs and find providers at intermountainhealth.org. 

Intermountain Health ofrece ahora una expansión pionera a nivel nacional de la terapia con células CAR-T, acercando tratamientos oncológicos de vanguardia a los pacientes del sur de Utah y Nevada.

La nueva clínica satélite de terapia con células CAR-T de Intermountain en St. George marca un logro significativo en la mejora del acceso a terapias con células CAR-T aprobadas por la Administración de alimentos y medicamentos (FDA, por sus siglas en inglés), y es la primera vez en Estado Unidos en que la recolección de células CAR-T está disponible en un sitio remoto, lejos de un centro de tratamiento primario.

Antes de la expansión del programa de la terapia con células CAR-T, los pacientes del suroeste de Utah, Nevada y más allá, tenían que viajar cientos de millas al LDS Hospital en Salt Lake City para someterse a la recolección, el trasplante y el seguimiento médico.

Esta innovadora expansión de la recolección de células madre y los procedimientos de recolección de células CAR-T en el St. George Cancer Center de Intermountain Health, proporciona opciones de tratamiento oncológico avanzado más cerca de los pacientes de la región.

“La expansión de la terapia con células CAR-T al St. George Regional Hospital de Intermountain es prueba de nuestro compromiso en proporcionar tratamiento oncológico innovador y accesible”, dijo Brad Hunter, MD, oncólogo médico y director del programa de terapia con células CAR-T del LDS Hospital de Intermountain. “Esta clínica mejorará significativamente la calidad del cuidado médico de los pacientes del sur de Utah y más allá de las fronteras de nuestro estado, ofreciéndoles esperanza y sanación sin la necesidad de viajar largas distancias”.

La terapia con células CAR-T es un tipo de inmunoterapia que utiliza el poder del sistema inmunológico del propio paciente para luchar contra el cáncer al reprogramar genéticamente las células T para atacar y destruir las células cancerígenas.

“Esta terapia ha mostrado un éxito sin igual al tratar ciertos tipos de leucemia y el linfoma no Hodgkin y estamos agradecidos por la oportunidad de hacerla más accesible”, dijo el Dr. Hunter.

Este proceso está personalizado a cada paciente oncológico de manera individual y comprende la recolección de las células inmunológicas, o células T, las cuales se envían a una ubicación diferente donde son modificadas.

Entre dos o tres semanas después, el paciente viaja al LDS Hospital de Intermountain para el trasplante de las células reprogramadas. Después, las nuevas células atacan y matan las células cancerígenas al adherirse a las proteínas específicas o antígenos de las células cancerígenas.

El paciente está bajo observación para confirmar que el tratamiento está funcionando y, entonces, se le da el alta con citas de seguimiento programadas cerca de su casa.

Jacqueline, de 68 años, oriunda de Las Vegas, Nevada, recibió terapia por células CAR-T para tratar el linfoma no Hodgkin que padecía en el LDS Hospital de Intermountain y dice que le salvó la vida.

“Fue algo milagroso”, dijo Jacqueline. “Al mirar a la parte posterior de mi garganta podía ver los nódulos linfáticos muy inflamados, y luego, en cuestión de dos semanas de tratamiento, de repente, desaparecieron. Hasta me hicieron escáneres y todo había desaparecido”.

Jacqueline y su esposo tenían que viajar a Salt Lake en numerosas ocasiones y quedarse por un mes; dicen que la nueva clínica satélite de terapia con células CAR-T en St. George les ahorrará millas y que será bueno para que futuros pacientes oncológicos reciban tratamiento “a la vuelta de la esquina”.

En la actualidad, la terapia con células CAR-T está aprobada por la FDA para pacientes que tienen una serie de cánceres hematológicos, incluyendo la leucemia linfoblástica (ALL, por sus siglas en inglés), linfomas de células B y mieloma múltiple.

Para obtener más información acerca del programa y los servicios de terapia con células CAR-T de Intermountain Health, visite Intermountain Health.

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Intermountain Health is now offering a national first-of-its kind expansion of CAR-T Cell Therapy, bringing cutting-edge cancer care closer to patients in Southern Utah and Nevada.

Intermountain’s new CAR-T Cell satellite clinic in St. George marks a significant milestone to improve access to FDA approved CAR T-cell therapies at a regional clinic – and is the first time in the United States that CAR T-Cell collections are now available at a remote site away from a primary treatment center.

Before expanding the CAR T-Cell therapy program, patients in southwest Utah, Nevada and beyond, had to travel hundreds of miles to Intermountain LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City for collection, transplant, and follow-up care.

This innovative expansion of stem cell collection and CAR T-cell collection procedures at the Intermountain Health St. George Cancer Center provides advanced cancer treatment options closer to home for patients in the region.

"Expanding CAR-T Cell Therapy to Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital is a testament to our commitment to providing accessible, state-of-the-art cancer treatment,” said Brad Hunter, MD, medical oncologist and director of the CAR T-cell program at Intermountain LDS Hospital. “This clinic will significantly enhance the quality of care for patients in Southern Utah and beyond our state boarders, offering them hope and healing without the need to travel long distances."

CAR-T Cell Therapy is a form of immunotherapy that harnesses the power of a patient's own immune system to fight cancer by genetically reprogramming T-cells to target and destroy cancer cells.

“This therapy has shown remarkable success in treating certain types of leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma and we’re grateful for the chance to make it more accessible,” said Dr. Hunter.

This process is customized to each individual oncology patient and involves collecting the patient’s immune cells or T cells, which are then sent to a different location and re-engineered.

About two to three weeks later the patient will travel to Intermountain LDS Hospital for the re-programmed cells to be transplanted back to the patient. The new cells then target and kill the cancer cells by binding to the specific proteins or antigens on the cancer cells.

The patient is observed to confirm the treatment is working and then sent home, with follow up appoints close to home.

Jacqueline, 68, from Las Vegas, Nevada, received CAR-T therapy for her Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma last year at Intermountain LDS Hospital and says it saved her life.

“It was really miraculous,” said Jacqueline. “I could see the back of my throat and see the lymph nodes, so swelled up and then within two weeks of the treatment, all of a sudden, they were just gone. They even scanned me and everything was gone.”

Jacqueline and her husband had to travel to Salt Lake numerous times and stay for a month, they say the new Intermountain Health St. George CAR-T Cell satellite clinic will save some miles and will be nice for future cancer patients to have treatment, “just down the street.”

CAR T-Cell therapy is currently FDA approved for patients who have a variety of hematologic cancers, including acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), B-cell lymphomas, and multiple myeloma.

For more information about the Intermountain Health CAR-T Cell Therapy program and services, go to Intermountain Health.

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NOTE TO MEDIA: Images and video available upon request.

Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital is proud to announce the installation of two new monoplace, or single-person hyperbaric chambers, enhancing the hospital’s ability to provide life-saving treatment to patients across the region. 

This expansion comes in response to a growing need for hyperbaric oxygen therapy. During the last year, Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital’s hyperbaric chambers have been at the forefront of care during four major critical incidents, treating nearly 100 patients.

These chambers, often little known to the public, are critical for treating a wide variety of conditions as they use 100 percent oxygen administered in a pressurized chamber at levels greater than sea level pressure, typically twice the atmospheric pressure.

“Our hyperbaric chambers have been instrumental in treating patients for carbon monoxide poisoning, oxygen therapy for severe wounds, and even suicide attempts,” said Dallas Wright, MD, wound care and hyperbaric physician at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. “These new monoplace chambers will bolster our capacity to deliver critical care, especially as the only facility in the area offering these services. We regularly receive patients from as far away as Las Vegas who rely on our unique capabilities.” 

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy provides benefits by using a large volume of oxygen to saturate the blood and tissues with the oxygen's healing properties. This occurs from wearing a sealed hood or an airplane pilot like mask in the multiplace chamber or by breathing in the oxygen that fills the monoplace chamber. 

The hospital currently operates a large, multi-person chamber that seats twelve people. The addition of the two new monoplace chambers will significantly enhance the hospital’s ability to treat more patients with greater flexibility, ensuring that the hospital remains at the forefront of hyperbaric care in the region. 

Caregivers were given the opportunity to submit numerous creative name options for the new monopods, along with the current multi-person chamber. Then they voted on the final names.

The final voting picked the following names: Zion for the multi-person chamber, then Bryce and Kolob for the new monopods.

“We are deeply grateful for the trust our patients place in us and for the continued support of our community. As we move forward, these new hyperbaric chambers will stand as symbols of our commitment to providing the best care possible, no matter the circumstance,” said Dr. Wright.

Hyperbaric therapy can be offered in ways that don't always provide 100% oxygen.

If you have questions about the benefits of these methods, need more information about Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital’s hyperbaric services or to learn more about the naming process, please visit intermountainhealth.org. 

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Three Intermountain Health hospitals are ranked number one in their categories by Premier and Fortune Magazine as part of their Top 100 Hospitals national rankings for 2025.

Intermountain Medical Center in Murray is ranked first in the nation among major teaching hospitals. Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital is ranked as the nation’s top large community hospital, and Intermountain Layton Hospital is ranked as the top small community hospital.

Additionally, six other Intermountain hospitals throughout Utah are ranked among the nation’s best facilities on this year’s Premier/Fortune Top 100 hospitals list.

“It’s because of the incredible work and dedication of our caregivers and the high-quality care they provide that so many of our Intermountain Health facilities are considered among the nation’s premier hospitals, including three ranked number one in their categories,” said Rob Allen, president and chief executive officer of Intermountain Health. “This recognition is especially gratifying because it shows that we are delivering on our vision to be a model health system that’s committed to helping people in the communities we serve live the healthiest lives possible.”

The Premier / Fortune rankings are compiled by analyzing publicly available data from nearly 2,600 hospitals across the nation to determine top performing facilities in clinical outcomes, patient experience, operational efficiency, and financial health.

Research for the rankings found that if all the nation’s hospitals operated at the same level as these facilities ranked among the Top 100 hospitals, 331,000 additional lives would be saved, there would be 611,000 fewer patient complications, and $15 billion in-patient costs could be saved.

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

Other Intermountain Health hospitals 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 McKay-Dee Hospital
• Intermountain Riverton Hospital

To see the full Premier / Fortune Top Hospitals List for 2025, click here.

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Tres hospitales de Intermountain Health están clasificados entre los 50 mejores hospitales cardíacos del país para 2025, según un nuevo estudio nacional de hospitales cardíacos en Estados Unidos. 

Premier Inc. publicó su estudio anual y clasificaciones de los 50 mejores hospitales cardiovasculares del país para 2025. Intermountain Medical Center en Murray, Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital en Ogden e Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital están entre los 50 hospitales con mejor desempeño en cuanto a calidad de atención, resultados y experiencia del paciente, entre otros criterios. 

Según el estudio, si los hospitales de todo el país tuvieran calificaciones semejantes a los que figuran en la lista de los 50 mejores, podría significar 14,000 (catorce mil) muertes menos, 28,600 (veintiocho mil seiscientos) pacientes menos de derivación y angioplastia que sufren complicaciones y ahorrar más de 1.5 billones de dólares en costos de hospitalización en 2025. 

“Tener tres hospitales de Intermountain Health en esta lista demuestra el enfoque que tenemos en todo el sistema para brindar la mejor atención cardiovascular a los pacientes de todas las comunidades a las que prestamos servicios”, afirmó el Dr. Blake Gardner, director médico sénior del programa cardíaco y vascular de Intermountain Health. 

Las clasificaciones de los hospitales se dividen en tres categorías: Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital ocupa el primer lugar en la nación entre los hospitales docentes sin contar con un programa de residencia cardiovascular, Intermountain Medical Center ocupa el tercer lugar entre los hospitales con un programa de residencia cardiovascular e Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital ocupa el cuarto lugar entre los hospitales comunitarios. 

“Al contar con estos programas de primera categoría en hospitales de todo el estado, los pacientes no tienen que viajar lejos para recibir la mejor atención cardíaca posible”, agregó el Dr. Gardner. 

El estudio de Premier, una empresa de mejora de la atención médica que ha estudiado y clasificado los mejores hospitales cardiovasculares de Estados Unidos desde 1998, utiliza datos disponibles al público para evaluar anualmente los indicadores de rendimiento, incluida la experiencia del paciente, la mortalidad y las complicaciones de los pacientes internados, las readmisiones y la mortalidad a los 30 días, la duración promedio de la internación y el costo por caso. 

“Estoy muy orgulloso del personal cardiovascular de McKay-Dee Hospital, que son responsables de lograr este increíble hito y que atienden tan bien a nuestros pacientes y a la comunidad”, afirmó el Dr. Eric Lindley, director de cardiología y presidente del personal médico de Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital. “Al innovar teniendo en cuenta a los pacientes, abordamos uno de los mayores problemas de salud que enfrenta nuestra comunidad”. 

Intermountain Health participa en investigaciones cardíacas pioneras y en varios programas clínicos innovadores que mejoran la salud y atención cardíaca de los pacientes. 

“Nos esforzamos constantemente por ayudar a nuestros pacientes desarrollando nuevos tratamientos y participando en investigaciones avanzadas para ayudarlos a vivir la vida más saludable posible”, afirmó el Dr. Stephen McKellar, cirujano cardiotorácico y director médico del programa cardíaco y vascular de Intermountain Medical Center. “Es gratificante para nuestro equipo, y especialmente significativo para nuestros pacientes, que la dedicación de nuestro personal sea reconocida a nivel nacional”. 

Para ver la lista completa de los 50 mejores hospitales cardiovasculares de Premier para 2025, haga clic aquí. 
 

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Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden is ranked as the #1 teaching heart hospital in the nation without a cardiovascular residency program for 2025, according to a new national study of heart hospitals in America.

Premier Inc. released its annual list of the nation’s Top 50 Cardiovascular Hospitals, and Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital is not only ranked #1 for teaching hospitals without a cardiovascular residency program, but one of the Top 50 heart hospitals in America.

The study by Premier, which is a health care improvement company that has been studying and ranking America’s best cardiovascular hospitals since 1998, uses publicly available data to annually assess performance indicators including patient experience, inpatient mortality, and complications, 30-day mortality and readmissions, and average length of stay and cost per case.

If hospitals around the country had similar metrics to those that made the Top 50 list – including those at Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital – it could mean 14,000 fewer deaths, 28,600 fewer bypass and angioplasty patients suffering complications, and save more than $1.5 billion for inpatient costs, according to the study.

Two other Intermountain Health hospitals were also ranked by Premier as Top 50 hospitals, including Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, which ranked third for hospitals with a cardiovascular residency program, and Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital, which ranked fourth among community hospitals.

I’m so proud of the cardiovascular caregivers at McKay-Dee Hospital who are responsible for achieving this incredible milestone and who serve our patients and community so well,” said Eric Lindley, MD, chair of cardiology and medical staff president at Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital. “By innovating with patients in mind we are helping tackle one of the biggest health issues facing our community.”

Intermountain Health participates in pioneering heart research and is involved in several innovative clinical programs that improve cardiac health and heart care for patients.

“Having three Intermountain Health hospitals on this list shows our systemwide focus on providing the very best cardiovascular care to patients throughout the communities that we serve,” said Blake Gardner, MD, senior medical director of the heart and vascular program at Intermountain Health.

“By having these top-rated programs at hospitals across our state means patients don’t have to travel far to get the best heart care possible, including patients in Ogden and Northern Utah,” he added.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.

“Finding new ways to improve heart health is key to better outcomes for patients,” said Dr. Gardner. “I’m really proud to see the dedication of our cardiovascular caregivers at McKay-Dee Hospital and our other hospitals being recognized on a national level.”

To see Premier’s full list of Top 50 Cardiovascular Hospitals for 2025, click here.

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The new Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital Day Treatment Center is opening its doors to address a critical need in pediatric behavioral health care, thanks to community support given to the annual Jubilee of Trees fundraiser.

Intermountain Health and community leaders, joined by a family who lost a child to suicide, participated in a ceremonial ribbon cutting at the new center, a converted home at 409 E. 500 South in St. George, which will offer the Adolescent Behavioral Health Partial Hospitalization Program.

The Intermountain Partial Hospitalization Program offers intensive care and skill building to kids five days a week, each day for the length of a typical school day.

At the end of each day, participants go home to use the skills they learned with their family. The course of treatment is up to 15 days, with the length of stay determined by the youth, their parents, and the program team. The program opens January 28.

“This new center fills an important need in mental health care and will bring hope to kids and families in the St. George area,” said Natalie Ashby, president of Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. “Thank you to our caregivers, providers and external partners who helped to build this clinic. It takes many, many people to make this happen, and we are grateful for your contributions and dedication to helping children and families.”

The Partial Hospitalization Program comes thanks to community generosity at the 2022 Jubilee of Trees, which raised $1.2 million to support pediatric and adolescent mental and behavioral health services at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital.

The annual event, hosted by the Intermountain Foundation at St. George Regional Hospital, has raised funds to advance community medical services at the hospital since 1983.

“We are thankful for our community’s giving spirit, which made this Partial Hospitalization Program possible,” said Loriana De Crescenzo, executive director of the Intermountain Foundation at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. “The impact of this generosity will be felt for years to come.”

Enhancing behavioral health services for children is part of Intermountain Health’s Primary Promise to create the nation’s model health system for children, and based on significant need. 

In the past decade, emergency departments at Intermountain Health hospitals in Utah recorded a 300 percent increase in pediatric mental health crises. In 2022, St. George Regional Hospital treated about 1,000 patients for mental health reasons alone.

Suicide is the leading cause of death for Utah youth ages 10 to 17. An estimated 40 percent of children who have depression are not getting care. Last year, 43 percent of Utah youth who felt sad, hopeless, or suicidal reported that they did not talk to anyone about it.

“We’re hopeful the new Partial Hospitalization Program can give children and families the care that they need to prevent mental health crises, help our children return to health and thrive,” said Patrick Carroll, MD, neonatologist and medical director of Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital.

Chantel and Colby Peterson hope it can prevent the kind of tragedy that impacted their family.

In 2019, Brooklyn “B” Petersen died by suicide at age 16. She was lively and thoughtful, and excelled academically and in cheerleading, a sport she loved. She had a contagious laugh, and a personality that, like a bright light, drew many to her.

Brooklyn’s stepmom, Chantel, honored Brooklyn’s life by decorating and donating a Christmas tree to the Jubilee of Trees in 2022.

She wanted the beautiful, intricately decorated “Forever B” tree to help raise funds to expand pediatric behavioral and mental health services in the area. She and Colby shared Brooklyn’s story at the Jubilee’s fundraising gala and auction.

What happened next was record-smashing.

The audience was so moved by B’s story, that they together donated an unprecedented $177,000 for the tree, then returned it to the Petersen family to display in their home for the holidays.

“Brooklyn’s love and selflessness bridges both heaven and earth,” her dad, Colby Petersen said. “She is so much more than her ending, however it is our hope that by sharing her story, we may keep her memory alive and advocate for the lives of others affected by mental health and suicide, by instilling value, purpose, and worth on her behalf.”

The new Partial Hospitalization Program addresses a gap in behavioral health services. The program is more intensive than an hourlong outpatient visit with a therapist, and yet not as intense as mental health crisis hospitalization services.

Program participants will receive care from a multi-disciplinary team, including mental health therapists, doctors, and nurses.

Participants will receive care and learn new skills, and their families will learn ways to support their wellbeing. At the end of each day, participants will return to their families to practice their new skills.

“Children are more likely to be successful in treatment when they can apply their experiential learning in a real-world setting in real time,” said Matthew Bradbury, MD, board certified psychiatrist at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. “The Partial Hospitalization Program provides those opportunities to participants, and tailors each child’s care and learning to address their individual needs.”

“We invest in our communities, and particularly this community here in Washington County, because it is the right thing to do,” said Cyndi Gilbert, chair of the Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital Board of Trustees. “Intermountain Health’s mission is to help people live the healthiest lives possible, and that starts with making sure everyone has access to mental health services – especially our children.”   

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Intermountain Health welcomed the community and caregivers today at the Intermountain Washington Fields Clinic to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of Intermountain’s newest outpatient ambulatory care clinic that will enhance care for patients in Washington County.

The 15,232-square-foot clinic is located at 2947 East 1450 South in St. George and brings primary care and pediatrics closer to home for residents of Washington County.

“Intermountain Health is committed to clinical excellence and increasing access to exceptional, quality care,” said Mitch Cloward, president of Intermountain Health’s Desert Region, which includes southern Nevada and southwest Utah. “With the continued expected growth in Washington County and surrounding communities, this new clinic will offer access to family medicine and pediatric care to more families and current patients, closer to home.”

The ribbon-cutting, attended by dozens of dignitaries, community members, Intermountain leaders, providers, and clinic team caregivers, was held at the clinic doors with an official ceremony.

Intermountain Health Desert Region Board of Trustee Cyndi Gilbert, Washington County Commissioner Adam Snow, St. George Mayor Michele Randall, and Jeremy Cox, Intermountain Health market vice president of medical group operations for primary care in the Desert Region, were among those who participated in the festivities.

Following the event, tours and an open house provided visitors with an early look at the clinic.

Family medicine providers Dr. Matt McIff and Dr. Sheldon Moon will be caring for patients at the new Intermountain Washington Fields Clinic.

“We are thrilled to introduce to the community our providers and clinic team who will be caring for patients at this new location,” said Steve Clark, MD, Intermountain’s senior medical director for primary Care for Southwest Utah. “Our commitment to our patients starts with ensuring each person has access to primary care and can see their primary care provider regularly. Establishing preventive care keeps people healthy, out of the hospital, and living their lives to the fullest.”

Dr. Gary Bosshardt and Dr. Eric Wilson will be caring for pediatric patients at Washington Fields Clinic, where lab and X-Ray services also will be available.

“This clinic will help parents keep their children healthy by providing them with preventive services, care when they are sick, mental health care, screening, referrals to specialists when needed, and other outpatient services,” said Tim Larsen, MD, medical director for pediatrics for Southwest Utah for Intermountain Health. “Children will make up a little over 50 percent of the patients that come to this clinic but 100 percent of our future community. So, we are super excited to partner with parents to help our community be healthier into the future.”

Jacobsen Construction and HKS Architects are the lead firms on the project.

“Intermountain Health invests in our communities because it is the right thing to do,” said Shey Grossen, executive director for primary care for Intermountain Health’s Desert Region. “This state-of-the-art clinic closer to home for many Washington County residents ensures access to quality care is more convenient than ever. Thank you to our patients for entrusting Intermountain with your care.”

To learn more about Intermountain Health and to make an appointment, visit intermountainhealth.org.  

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The last thing a marathon runner and mother of six wants to hear at a doctor’s appointment is that she has breast cancer. But Amanda Roberts knew she was in good hands with the experts at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital, which is located near her home.

“I can’t say enough good things about our cancer center here in St. George,” said Roberts, who underwent whole genome sequencing at diagnosis and recently completed her individualized breast cancer treatments.

“Having this treatment here has been incredible and made my journey so much easier. I can’t imagine having to travel, or that I’d receive better care than the care I received at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital,” she added.

In November, the community can help more patients like Amanda access expanded, advanced, and personalized cancer treatments at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital by participating in the 41^st annual Jubilee of Trees.

Jubilee of Trees, hosted by the Intermountain Foundation, is open to the public Nov. 21-23, with a Gala Dinner and Auction on Friday, Nov. 22, at the Dixie Convention Center in St. George. Tickets can be purchased at visit intermountainhealthcare.org/foundation/jubilee-of-trees.

Individuals and families are invited to join in an open-house style holiday event celebrating the spirit of charitable giving. All proceeds benefit patients at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital.

“We are committed to ensuring anything that can be done with cancer, from screening to treatment to support for survivors, can be done here with expertise and compassion, and ease the strain on families,” said Derrick Haslem, MD, medical oncologist at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital.

“Community philanthropy at the Jubilee of Trees has a huge impact on our work,” Dr. Haslem added. “We invite the community to participate in the Jubilee of Trees this year, and rally around this cancer center, which has become emblematic of our community’s fight against cancer.”

Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital serves Utah’s third-fastest-growing city. Now more than ever, cancer patients need access to its leading clinical experts, complex and unique cancer treatments, and survivorship care.

Doug Adams is one of those patients.

While living in Colorado eight years ago, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer. The prognosis he received was grim. He traveled the country searching for effective treatments.

Adams found the oncologist he was looking for at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital Cancer Center. He moved to St. George, where he was able to get doses of Pluvicto, a treatment that, at the time, was scarcely available nationwide outside of New Jersey. It worked.

“Eight years ago (doctors) said, basically, at 52, my life would be over in the next 18 to 24 months. Now it’s been 8 years. We’re thriving in St. George. God bless Intermountain,” Adams said.

Because of the treatments he received at the Cancer Center, Adams was able to celebrate his 60^th birthday and continue the activities he enjoys, like cycling, in St. George. “Amazing place, amazing people,” he said. “Wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

Autum Marie Rasmussen, age 22, also hopes to celebrate her 60^th birthday and beyond, thanks to the treatment she received at the Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital Cancer Center.

Rasmussen’s cancer journey began during an exercise workout. She thought she’d pulled a muscle in her leg.

When the pain progressed to her lower abdomen and became unbearable, she went to Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital for emergency care. Soon, scans and tests would confirm Rasmussen had Ewing sarcoma around her pubic bone, hip socket, and femur.

News of the diagnosis was tough, but Rasmussen is tougher. She has been documenting her journey in social media.

“It makes it a little easier, to make light of a really daunting situation,” she said.

Oncologists designed a treatment plan for Rasmussen, taking extra steps to help preserve her future plans to start a family. The plan allowed her to receive expert care without being hospitalized, and at the Cancer Center just 15 minutes away from her home.  

“It’s been such a huge blessing that I’m able to be outpatient and be so close,” she said. “At the end of a day of treatments, I get to go back to the comforts of home and rejuvenate. I get to sleep in my own bed, be with my family, and have friends come over. Then, I am blessed to be able to come back to the Cancer Center and get life-saving treatments.” 

By supporting in the Jubilee of Trees, the community can fuel the advancements that have helped Amanda, Doug, and Autum, and bring new hope to the spectrum of cancer patients served at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital.

“Philanthropy is critical to the advancement of our expertise and the patient experience for how we deliver proactive care for people at risk for cancer, provide multi-disciplinary care for patients on the urology-oncology cancer journey as well as the gynecology-oncology journey, and meet the needs of those in survivorship,” said Loriana De Crescenzo, executive director of the Intermountain Foundation. “We urge our community to step forth in support of this cause and are grateful for their example and generosity."

For more than 40 years, Jubilee of Trees has engaged community members from Southwest Utah and beyond in support of the most urgent needs at St. George Regional Hospital. The generosity of our community has been vital to the expansion of surgical services, pediatric and adolescent mental and behavioral health services, neuroscience services, and establishing LifeFlight services in St. George, in additions to numerous other contributions.

For tickets and information, visit intermountainhealthcare.org/foundation/jubilee-of-trees.

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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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La reunión anual de graduados de la Unidad neonatal de cuidados intensivos (NICU, por sus siglas en inglés) de Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital se realizará el sábado 21 de septiembre, de 9 a. m. a 12 p. m. 

La reunión está dirigida a todos los pacientes y los familiares que hayan recibido atención en la NICU de Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. 

La reunión de la NICU permite a las familias y a los cuidadores de Intermountain celebrar el éxito de estas familias en Thunder Junction All Abilities Park, 1850 S. Dixie Drive, en St. George. 

Se ofrecerán bocadillo y bebidas y se realizarán actividades divertidas como pinturas en la cara y habrá personas disfrazadas de personajes infantiles conocidos. En el parque, los niños tienen la posibilidad de jugar en la plataforma de chapoteo, el área de creación musical, los toboganes, las zonas para escalar y mucho más. 

“El personal de la NICU de Intermountain St. George Regional espera este evento todo el año, ya que llegamos a conocer bien a estas familias durante su estadía en el hospital y existe un vínculo profundo que perdura años después”, afirma el Dr. Patrick Carroll, director médico del Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. “También podemos ver cómo crecieron los bebés ya que, la última vez que los vimos, eran tan chicos y se encontraban en un estado tan vulnerable”. 

Sandy White y su familia asisten a las reuniones de la NICU desde el 2009. 

Sus hijas mellizas, Maci y Jani, nacieron en la semana 23, 17 semanas antes de lo previsto, el 19 de octubre de 2008. Jani falleció después de su primer mes de vida y Maci, que pesó una libra y cinco onzas (un kilo y medio) cuando nació, estuvo en el hospital hasta que finalmente se fue a casa el 5 de febrero, cuatro días después de la fecha original de parto de las mellizas. 

“Los cuidadores se convirtieron en nuestra familia durante los más de tres meses que pasamos en la NICU”, afirma Sandy. “Formas una familia. Una familia capacitada que puede ayudar a tu bebé como tú no puedes hacerlo durante ese tiempo”. 

Dice que la experiencia sigue teniendo un impacto hoy en día. 

El personal decoró la puerta con mariquitas; y ahora, las mariquitas se convirtieron en el tema central en su vida con Maci, que ahora tiene 15 años. Las mariquitas la hacen pensar en la vida de Jani y le dan la sensación de cercanía. 

Como parte de la celebración de la reunión, Intermountain Life Flight realizará un sobrevuelo especial a las 10:30 a. m. Luego, se realizará una ceremonia en memoria de los niños fallecidos en la que los participantes soltarán mariposas a las 11 a. m. 

Este es el segundo año en que se sueltan mariposas y la familia White recuerda que fue muy emotivo. 

Maci White dijo que lloró cuando se soltaron las mariposas al pensar en su hermana melliza. 

“Te unes a esa mariposa, una parte de tu corazón, y le deseas lo mejor”, dijo White. 

Varios miembros del personal de enfermería también soltaron mariposas con las familias de un bebé al que cuidaron y que les ocasionó un profundo impacto. 

La NICU de Intermountain St. George Hospital es una unidad de nivel III con 24 camas que se inauguró en 2005 y que ofrece atención reconocida a nivel nacional y centrada en la familia para recién nacidos con enfermedades graves y necesidades de atención complejas. 

La sala para recién nacidos especializada también atiende a las mujeres con embarazos de alto riesgo y a los bebés nacidos a término que necesitan apoyo y atención adicional inesperada. 

El equipo de la NICU ofrece una gama completa de servicios médicos altamente especializados para recién nacidos prematuros. Esto puede incluir una gama de tratamientos para atender a los bebés más enfermos, incluidos los que requieren lo siguiente: 
• Una máquina que los ayude a respirar (requieren ventilación asistida convencional y de alta frecuencia). 
• Tratamiento con óxido nítrico para combatir los problemas pulmonares. 
• Hipotermia terapéutica u otros tratamientos neuroprotectores, ya que tienen mayor riesgo de padecer problemas de neurodesarrollo o lesiones cerebrales. 
• Atención altamente especializada para problemas médicos complejos. 
• Cirugía láser de los ojos. 
• El hospital también cuenta con el equipo de transporte Life Flight de la NICU, que presta servicios de transporte a las comunidades circundantes y, en caso necesario, a todo el país. 
 
Para obtener más información, llame a Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital al 435-251-5200 o envíe un correo electrónico a SGNICUReunion@imail.org. 

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The annual reunion for graduates of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital is Saturday, September 21, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The reunion is open to all former patients and families who have received care from the Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital NICU. 

The NICU reunion brings families and Intermountain caregivers together to celebrate the success of these families at Thunder Junction All Abilities Park, 1850 S. Dixie Drive, in St. George.

Snacks and drinks are provided, with fun activities such as face painting and well-known children's characters in costume. The park gives children the chance to play at the splash pad, music creation area, slides, climbing areas, and more.  

“The staff at Intermountain St. George Regional NICU look forward to this event all year as we get to know these families well during their time spent at the hospital and there is a deep bond that exists years later,” said Dr. Patrick Carroll, medical director of Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. “We also get to see how the babies have grown since we last saw them in such a young, vulnerable state.”  

Sandy White and her family have attended the NICU reunions since 2009.

Her twin daughters, Maci and Jani, were born at 23 weeks, which was 17 weeks early on October 19, 2008. Jani passed away after her first month of life, while Maci, born at one pound and 5 ounces, remained in the hospital until she finally went home on February 5, four days after the twins’ original due date. 

"The caregivers became family to us during our three-plus months stay in the NICU,” said Sandy. “You join a family – an educated family that can do for your baby what you are not able to during that time.”

She said their experience still impacts them today.

The staff decorated their door with ladybugs; and now, ladybugs have become a central theme in her life with Maci, who is now 15 years old. Ladybugs bring her thoughts of Jani’s life and feeling she is near.

As part of the reunion celebration, Intermountain Life Flight will be performing a special flyover at 10:30 a.m. Following that, there will be a memorial ceremony for infants who have passed with participants releasing butterflies at 11 a.m.  

This is the second year for the butterfly release, and the White family recalled how emotional it was.

Maci White said there were tears as the butterflies were released as she thought of her twin sister. 

“You attach yourself to that butterfly, a piece of your heart, and you wish it well,” said White.

Several nurses also release butterflies with the families for an infant they cared for that made a profound impact on them. 

Intermountain St. George Hospital’s NICU is a 24 bed, Level III unit that opened in 2005 and provides nationally recognized, family-centered care for critically ill newborns with complex care needs.

The specialized nursery also provides care for those with high-risk pregnancies and full-term babies who need unexpected, extra support and care. 

The NICU team provides a full range of highly specialized medical services for preterm newborns. This can include a range of therapies to care for the sickest babies, including those who: 

• Need a machine to help them breathe (require conventional and high frequency assisted ventilation). 
• Require nitric oxide therapy to help combat lung problems. 
• Are at increased risk for neurodevelopmental problems or brain injuries and require therapeutic cooling or other neuroprotective therapies. 
• Need highly specialized care for complex medical problems. 
• Laser eye surgeries 
• The hospital also has the NICU Life Flight Transport Team that provides transport services to surrounding communities and as needed throughout the country. 

For more information, call Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital at 435-251-5200 or email SGNICUReunion@imail.org. 

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WHAT:

As a critical care nurse for 28 years, Karen Conner, 58, from Lander, Wyoming, never thought she would be on the other side of trauma care, but that’s exactly what happened last April. Now, she’s excited to reunite with the Intermountain Health caregivers who helped save her life and to thank them for all that they did for her.

What started out as a leisurely walk on April 21, 2023. along a dirt road in La Verkin, Utah, with her husband and three dogs, she soon found she was in an Intermountain Life Flight helicopter being flown to the trauma center at Intermountain St. George Hospital.

Conner had smelled something very foul and went to check it out, when she tripped on a rock, fell and slid down the cliff side – headfirst – falling more than 40 feet. Only a small rock and a bush on a ledge kept her from falling further below into the Virgin River.

A quick call by her husband to 9-1-1, got Intermountain Life Flight in the air. The crew used a basket and ropes to get her out of the precarious position on the side of the cliff to get her to the hospital.

Conner’s spine and neck were broken in multiple places, she fractured several bones in her right leg and left ankle, as well as receiving a serious head injury, cuts and bruises.

“I felt very grateful I was still alive and not paralyzed,” said Conner. “Intermountain Health did a great job putting a mess back together.”

On Thursday, August 15, Conner is making the eight-hour drive from her home in Wyoming to thank her caregivers.

News media are invited to cover this poignant reunion and to talk to Conner, her caregivers and trauma experts about how high-level falls are now the 2^nd leading cause of injury in Southern Utah and the St. George region, even surpassing motor vehicle crashes.

WHEN:

10:30, am, MT Thursday, Aug 15, 2024

WHERE:

Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital – Trauma Center

1380 East Medical Center Drive

St. George, UT 84790

                                                                                                                                                             ###

Todavía se encuentra abierta y disponible la Intermountain Health’s Downwinders Clinic para asistir a aquellos de la comunidad que tienen preguntas sobre cómo las lluvias radiactivas de pruebas nucleares anteriores pueden impactar en ellos o en sus familias. 

La Intermountain Health’s Downwinders Clinic está ubicada en el Centro de cáncer del Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital y ha estado brindando educación y asistencia fundamentales sobre la Ley de compensaciones por exposición a la radiación (RECA, por sus siglas en inglés).

El estatuto federal de la RECA brindó compensación a las personas que calificaban y a sus familias con diagnósticos de algunos tipos de cáncer u otras enfermedades como resultado directo a la exposición de pruebas nucleares atmosféricas realizadas por el gobierno federal hace décadas.

La compensación de la RECA finalizó sin extensión el 10 de junio de 2024. Han existido distintas propuestas de ley en las que se debatieron en el Congreso para continuar o expandir el programa, pero, por ahora, el Departamento de Justicia de Estados Unidos no acepta solicitudes.

Rebecca Barlow, directora del proyecto para la Radiation Exposure Screening Clinic en el Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital, todavía se encuentra disponible para reunirse con las personas que reclaman y sus familias para debatir los requisitos, si se otorga una extensión o la ley de compensación nueva y extendida está aprobada.

“El Departamento de Justicia no puede aceptar solicitudes de RECA en este momento debido a que el programa caducó. Sin embargo, cualquiera que piense que hubiera calificado para el programa si todavía estuviera activo es bienvenido a llamarme para debatir qué podría estar haciendo mientras esperamos que la propuesta de ley comience nuevamente”, dijo Barlow. “También estamos dispuestos a brindar educación sobre pruebas de detección del cáncer y exámenes físicos para los interesados”.

Los tipos de cáncer que calificaron previamente en RECA incluyen (pero no leucemia linfocítica crónica), mieloma múltiple, linfomas (otro diferente Hodgkin), y los cánceres principales en la faringe, el intestino delgado, la glándula salival, el cerebro, el estómago, el tracto urinario/vejiga, el colon, la tiroides, el páncreas, la mama, el esófago, los ductos biliares, el hígado, la vesícula biliar, el pulmón y los ovarios. Sin embargo, es muy temprano para saber qué tipos de cáncer se incluirán en la ley cuando vuelva a instalarse, según Barlow.

Las personas pueden contactar a la Intermountain Downwinder’s Clinic llamando al 435-251-4760 y dejando un mensaje, Le devolverán la llamada lo antes posible.

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The Intermountain Health’s Downwinders Clinic is still open and available to assist those in the community who have questions about how radiation fallout from previous nuclear testing may have impacted them or their families.  

The Intermountain Downwinders Clinic is located in the Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital’s Cancer Center and has been providing vital education and assistance about the federal Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, or RECA.

The RECA federal statute provided compensation for qualifying people and their families who contracted certain cancers and/or other diseases as a direct result of their exposure to atmospheric nuclear testing performed by the federal government decades ago.

The RECA compensation ended without an extension on June 10, 2024. There have been different bills debated in Congress to continue and/or expand the program, but for now, the United States Department of Justice is not accepting applications.

Rebecca Barlow, project director for the Radiation Exposure Screening Clinic at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital is still available to meet with claimants and their families to discuss qualifications, if an extension is granted, or the new, extended compensation act is passed.

“The Department of Justice cannot accept RECA applications at this time due to the expiration of the program. But anyone who thinks that they would have qualified for the program if it was still active, are welcome to call me to discuss what they could be doing while we wait for the bill to start again,” said Barlow. “We are also still open to do cancer screening education and a physical for downwinders.”

Cancers that previously qualified under RECA include leukemia (but not chronic lymphocytic leukemia), multiple myeloma, lymphomas (other than Hodgkin's), and primary cancers of the pharynx, small intestine, salivary gland, brain, stomach, urinary tract/bladder, colon, thyroid, pancreas, breast, esophagus, bile ducts, liver, gall bladder, lung, and ovary. However, it’s too early to know which cancers will be included in the law when it is reinstated, according to Barlow.

People can contact the Intermountain Downwinder’s Clinic by calling 435-251-4760 and leaving a message. Your call will be returned at the earliest opportunity.

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Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital is the recipient of the American Heart Association’s Get with the Guideline’s Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award for its work to ensure that stroke patients in Southern Utah receive the most appropriate treatment, according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.  

Because of these efforts, Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital is helping to save lives and reduce disability for stroke patients, according to the AHA. 

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States. 

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so brain cells die. Early stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery times.

Get With the Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest research and evidence-based guidelines. 

 “Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital is committed to improving patient care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” said Tyler Owens, MD, stroke medical director at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital. “These national guidelines makes it easier for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work daily, which studies show can help patients recover better. Our goal is to ensure people in Southern Utah who experience a stroke can experience longer, healthier lives.” 

 Each year, program participants qualify for the award by demonstrating how their hospital or health system has committed to providing quality care for stroke patients. In addition to following treatment guidelines, Get With the Guidelines participants also educate patients to help them manage their health and recovery at home. 

“We are incredibly pleased to recognize Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital for its commitment to caring for patients with stroke,” said Steven Messe, MD, volunteer chairperson of the American Heart Association Stroke System of Care Advisory Group and professor of neurology and director of fellowships of neurology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. “Participation in Get With the Guidelines is associated with improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates, which is a win for health care systems, families, and communities.”

Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital also received the AHA’s Target: Stroke Elite Plus award. To qualify for this recognition, hospitals must meet specific criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with thrombolytic therapy.

Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital is also the recipient of the the AHA’sTarget: Stroke Honor Roll Advanced Therapy award by meeting specific criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment to remove the clot causing the stroke.

Additionally, Intermountain Health St. George Regional Hospital received the AHA’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award. This award recognizes hospitals who work to ensure patients with Type 2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for complications, receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke.

“Patients who experience a cerebrovascular event require fast, efficient, and detail-oriented care. It takes tireless work and attention to create a system of care that provides each patient the best outcome possible,” said Dr. Owens. “It’s a responsibility that we hold with pride. Being recognized as an elite stroke center comes as no easy feat. We’re grateful to our unique community of caretakers, coordinators, and leaders who made this achievement possible. We aim to continue to grow as a team and earn this award again next year.”

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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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Nine Intermountain Health hospitals have been named to Newsweek’s 2024 rankings of the World's Best Hospitals. 

The prestigious list aims to highlight the best facilities each year by using a mix of methodology that evaluates quality and safety measures meant to provide a guide for patients and families in choosing healthcare services in their communities. 

Newsweek looked at data from 2,400 hospitals across 30 countries to compile their list. The final scores were based on surveys from medical experts, patient/doctor ratios, and patient satisfaction surveys, among other metrics. 

“Intermountain is honored to be included among this premier list of hospitals,” said Rob Allen, president and CEO of Intermountain Health. “It represents the tireless work of our caregivers and their focus on exceptional and compassionate patient care.” 

Intermountain Health has put a major focus on providing affordable care while increasing access to services for patients. Thanks to the expansion of telehealth, patients can now get the specialized care they need closer to home, regardless of their location. 

The Intermountain hospitals ranked by Newsweek for the United States are: 

• Intermountain Health Good Samaritan Hospital, Lafayette CO 
• Intermountain LDS Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT 
• Intermountain Logan Regional Hospital, Logan, UT 
• Intermountain Lutheran Medical Center, Wheat Ridge, CO 
• Intermountain Medical Center, Murray, UT 
• Intermountain Saint Joseph Hospital, Denver, CO 
• Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital, St. George, UT 
• Intermountain Health St. Vincent Regional Hospital, Billings, MT 
• Intermountain Utah Valley Hospital, Provo UT 

To see Newsweek’s full lists of World’s Best Hospitals, click here.