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Show Caring Magazine development of best medical practices within IHC; many other physicians are affiliated with IHC in other ways. Patients visit doctors both in neighborhood physician clinics called IHC Health Centers and in a network of individual physician offices. WORKING TOGETHER FOR YOU years ago, when the foundof IHC gathered to consider trustees ing the name of the new organization, many possibilities were discussed. The trustees decided upon "Intermountain Health Care" because they envisioned an organization concerned not merely with the management of hospitals but with Twenty-fiv- e improving the health of the residents of the Intermountain region. They envisioned an organization responsive to the needs of the communities it serves. Today, that vision is in the process of being realized. IHC has an international reputation as a leader in medical research and health care delivery. Data show the quality of care available through IHC is among the highest in the nation, and the cost of care remains among the lowest. Access to physicians and other caregivers has never been easier; most area residents are within a drive of an IHC physician or facility. IHC continues to be governed by some 500 citizens who serve as unpaid, volunteer trustees, ensuring the organization remains community-baseCurrently, health care professionals at IHC are focusing on the discovery and consistent application of medicai "best d. practices" treatment processes that have been demonstrated to yield the best outcomes for patients. (See article on page 5.) New ways of caring for people in their dual roles as patients and as health plans members are helping individuals improve their health and avoid medical crises. IHC is also investing more than $1 billion to replace or remodel older facilities so that the buildings support the new processes of care. (See article on page 12). At the beginning of this new century, medical knowledge promises to advance rapidly. Some breakthroughs will result from a heightened understanding of human genetics and cellular biology. Other breakthroughs will result from the consistent application of techniques already proven effective. As has always been the case, with these medical "miracles" will come the challenge of ensuring all people have access to the care they need. Keeping faith with the vision of its founders and predecessor organizations, IHC will continue to safeguard its legacy of excellent health care for generations yet to come. |