University of Iowa News Release

Jan. 11, 2008

Iowa Hospital Association study shows strong economic impact

University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics generates 7,464 jobs that add $370,913,481 to Johnson County's economy, according to the latest study by the Iowa Hospital Association.

In addition, employees of UI Hospitals and Clinics fuel the Iowa economy through a total economic impact of $497,950,236 and contribute $190,319,014 in state sales tax revenue.

"This is good news for Iowans," said Gordon Williams, interim director and CEO of UI Hospitals and Clinics. "This data demonstrates not only our contribution to the statewide economy, but also how the financial strength of Iowa's only comprehensive academic medical center is crucial to our ability to provide high quality patient care, conduct groundbreaking research and train the medical professionals of the future."

The IHA study examined the jobs, income, retail sales and sales tax produced by hospitals and the rest of the state's health care sector. The study was compiled from hospital-submitted data on the American Hospital Association Annual Survey of Hospitals and with software that other industries have used to determine their economic impact.

The study found that Iowa hospitals directly employ 71,446 people and create another 83,082 jobs outside the hospital care sector. As an income source, hospitals provide $3.2 billion in salaries and benefits and generate another $2.5 billion through other jobs that depend on hospitals.

In all, Iowa's health care sector, which includes employed clinicians, long-term care services and assisted living centers, pharmacies, and other medical and health services directly and indirectly provides 375,470 Iowa jobs, or more than one-fifth of the state's total employment.

"Iowa hospitals are major employers and business partners throughout the state," said Kirk Norris, IHA president/CEO. "As Iowa continues to look for opportunities to grow its economy and stabilize its population, a strong health care system, anchored by well-supported community hospitals, is essential."

STORY SOURCE: Joint Office for Marketing and Communications, University of Iowa Health Care, 200 Hawkins Drive, Room E110 GH, Iowa City, Iowa 52242-1009

MEDIA CONTACT: Tom Moore, UI Health Care, 319-356-3945, thomas-moore@uiowa.edu.