At a joint press conference held Oct. 24 Bannock County Commissioners, Portneuf Medical Center (PMC) and Idaho State University (ISU) announced they are working together to explore the possibility of PMC becoming an academic medical center.

Representatives from the three groups signed a five page Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to begin looking more closely at the feasibility of such an arrangement. 

“This has the potential to stabilize and grow our local healthcare system, enhance patient care, and create further opportunities for teaching and medical research” said Commission Chairman Larry Ghan.  “A relationship between the University and the Hospital is a natural fit and I’m excited to begin looking more closely at the possibility.”

According to the MOU, the parties envision a relationship that enhances the programs and training opportunities that already exist between PMC and ISU.  PMC currently serves as an important resource in the training of ISU students, providing facilities and clinical faculty for a wide range of programs from nursing to medical residencies.

“I believe this Memorandum of Understanding is the beginning of opportunity to explore options in healthcare education, research and services that will lead to economic development and opportunity for recruitment and retention of students, faculty and staff,” said ISU President Arthur C. Vailas. “The University and the hospital are essential resources for health care work force development and certainly one that is important to the future of Idaho.”

The MOU signing sets the stage for a more formal investigation of a potential relationship between the Hospital and University. Next steps include a review of the master construction plan, review of services offered at PMC and a regional health needs assessment.  

“This helps set a common direction that everyone can work towards and provides assurance to the employees, physicians and the residents of Southeast Idaho that Portneuf Medical Center will be here to serve them for years to come” said PMC Governing Board Chairman Kelly Hirning.