Primary Children’s is located in Salt Lake City, the most populous city in Utah. However, patients outside of the city are often several hours from the hospital. The distance and travel can be a burden on patients and their families.

The Primary Children's Network

Intermountain is working to solve the problem by extending the reach of Primary Children’s through partnerships with hospitals across the region. Because of this new partnership with Utah Valley Hospital, expert pediatric care will be in a location that’s more convenient for patients in Utah County.

Bringing the Primary Children's Network to Utah County

Doctors, nurses and staff at both hospitals began working together five years ago to identify how a Primary Children’s Network could be implemented. Utah Valley and Primary Children’s analyzed the differences in care between the two hospitals. Utah Valley worked to close the gaps, standardize care and change processes and procedures when needed. Some of those changes included:

• Recruiting 26 pediatric subspecialists, many of whom practice at both hospitals.
• Providing 24/7 pediatric hospitalist coverage so a pediatrician is always available to see pediatric patients.
• Hiring four child-life specialists to help children feel comfortable when in the hospital and adjust to the hospital environment.
• Building 17 teams comprised of staff from both hospitals to implement changes.
• Working to accommodate the unique needs of children in departments such as pharmacy, surgery, supplies, dietary and more.

Utah Valley Hospital treated thousands of pediatric patients last year and will continue to enhance its children’s services. In fact, the hospital is planning a remodel of its pediatric wing and is involved in ongoing recruitment of pediatric specialists.

Russell Osguthorpe, MD, Director of Pediatric Medicine at Utah Valley, said, “This partnership shows Primary Children’s commitment to their motto, ‘The Child First and Always.’ Utah Valley Hospital is proud to be working with Primary Children’s. We’re excited to be part of the Primary Children’s legacy and provide high-quality care that’s close to home for our patients.”