Utah is buzzing with health care development this summer. As the state grows, so does its need for better medical facilities and services. In the past year alone, Utah welcomed over 50,300 new residents, largely along the Wasatch Front, bringing the total population to around 3.5 million, according to the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute.
John Poelman, interim director of the One Utah Health Collaborative, believes this growth isn’t just about numbers. “It includes an aging population and rising chronic conditions, which means more demand for care,” he says. He emphasizes that expanding access to primary care, mental health services, and care for the elderly should be priorities.
Health systems like Intermountain Health are taking note. McCall Rowley, from Intermountain, points to steady population growth in their service areas. To address this, the health system is opening new clinics, imaging centers, and a pediatric hospital in Lehi, along with new cancer treatment centers in Saratoga Springs and Park City.
On a similar track, the University of Utah Health is expanding as well. They recently broke ground on a new treatment center for the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Vineyard. This will be the Mountain West’s sole National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, allowing easier access for many who currently travel far for care.
A notable project is the upcoming Eccles Health Campus in West Valley City. With a budget of $855 million, it seeks to serve over 426,000 patients yearly. Funding, including a historic $75 million gift, highlights the community’s commitment to ensuring quality care.
Behavioral health is another focus. Intermountain has opened new facilities for both adult and pediatric behavioral health. Anne Stephens, who oversees a new youth crisis care center, explains the urgent need: “Emergency departments are strained with youth experiencing mental health crises, and this center will provide timely support.” The center aims to create a safe space tailored to children and teens.
The increase in health care needs isn’t limited to large health systems. For instance, the Rocky Mountain MS Clinic recently opened a new specialty clinic in Lehi to serve multiple sclerosis patients better. Dr. John F. Foley, who founded the clinic, notes this expansion is crucial in addressing the region’s underserved patient population.
Moreover, support for mental health is being prioritized. North Star Recovery & Wellness plans to add 500 inpatient beds to help tackle the growing mental health crisis, a pressing concern across the country, particularly in Utah.
Access to affordable care remains a challenge for many. Poelman highlights that “cost is often a bigger barrier than capacity.” To combat this, a new free community medical clinic will open at Utah Valley University this winter, offering various services with no fees. The Bingham Family Clinic aims to connect education with compassion, ensuring everyone can access quality health care.
In summary, Utah is witnessing significant changes in its health care landscape. The combined efforts of hospitals, clinics, and community programs reflect a strong commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its residents.
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