Isaac Hale, Daily Herald file photo

During Provo Mayor Michelle Kaufusi’s State of the City address, she introduced four Provo Pillars — phrases to define the city.

“One of our four Provo Pillars is ‘Safe and Sound’ and we take that responsibility seriously, with medical care being one of our community strengths,” Kaufusi said. “Not only do we have an award-winning regional hospital, but with the growth of Noorda-COM and Rocky Mountain University, we will soon have the state’s largest medical schools dedicated to training the next generation of caregivers.”

As part of recognizing that Safe and Sound Pillar, Kaufusi and others recently took the time to talk about what makes Provo a hub for medical training and care.

“This creates a dynamic environment and culture in Provo that makes not only this city but also the state of Utah and beyond a better place to live,” said Keith Morey, Economic Development director. “Not only does our award-winning regional hospital meet community medical needs, but with BYU’s nursing program and a new medical college, we are training the next generation of caregivers.”

There are currently 3,386 employees at Utah Valley Hospital, including 905 physicians, and 1,163 employees at Revere Health, including 400 physicians and clinicians.

Courtesy Daniel Pugmire

As for educational opportunities there are programs ranging from high school students learning dental hygiene to advanced classes for those already in a medical profession through Brigham Young University, Rocky Mountain University of Medical Professions, Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine, Mountainland Applied Technology College, Provo College and Utah Valley University, in Orem.

“The Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine will be Utah’s largest medical school and is located in the $400 million Provo Medical Technology Campus currently under construction,” said Norm Wright, Noorda-COM president and CEO. “This 30-acre campus will include academic and research facilities along with housing.”

In fact, the south end of Provo has been tagged the bio-technical area of Utah County, a book end to the computer technology center at Silicon Slopes.

There are 3,500 students pursuing medical certifications or degrees in Provo with 1,437 at Rocky Mountain University and an expected 720 at the Noorda Medical College when it opens this fall.

Dr. Melissa Kendall, Provo’s 2023 Trailblazer Award recipient, was the first female pediatrician in Utah County 25 years ago.

Dominic Valente, Daily Herald file photo

“I’m a much better physician because of what I’ve learned from my children,” Kendall said. “It’s an honor to represent the women in this community.”

Morey noted that you need good healthcare to have a vibrant community and that Rocky Mountain University has a 96% job placement with the majority of those jobs being in the valley. Utah Valley Hospital provides quality healthcare to the broader region, from Lehi’s Point of the Mountain to Cedar City.

“With 3,400 employees, Utah Valley Hospital makes Provo an essential asset to the health and stability of our region,” Morey said.

The UVH staff are known to have good one-on-one interaction with patients, they are not just a number, according to Kyle Hansen, Utah Valley Hospital chief executive officer.

“We understand the needs of the community,” Hansen said. “I get countless emails and letters about our caring staff.”

Utah Valley Hospital is the third largest hospital in the state. While Provo holds the greatest share of medical offerings, there are several hospitals, clinics, care facilities and home health companies within Utah County.

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