University of Utah Health released several announcements in 2023 covering medical research, institutional achievements, and community health initiatives. These updates highlight developments in areas ranging from cannabis research to mental health services and academic appointments.
Researchers at University of Utah Health conducted studies regarding cannabis exposure, finding it is associated with a 1.3 times higher risk of unhealthy pregnancy outcomes. A separate study of over 9,000 pregnant people across the U.S. linked cannabis exposure to a 1.5 times greater risk of unhealthy pregnancies. Additionally, a new research initiative was launched to bridge knowledge gaps regarding medical cannabis from bench to bedside.
The University of Utah Health achieved several recognitions, including being named a Joy in Medicine organization by the American Medical Association for promoting health care worker well-being. For 14 consecutive years, the University of Utah Hospital was ranked in the top ten nationally by the Vizient Bernard A. Birnbaum, MD, Quality Leadership Award. The Department of Anesthesiology also celebrated its 50th anniversary.
In mental health and community services, the SafeUT app reported 536 lifesaving interventions during fiscal year 2023. The Huntsman Mental Health Institute broke ground on a new translational research building. Additionally, the Huntsman Mental Health Institute Receiving Center was scheduled to reopen to the public on Monday, October 2, 2023, with increased capacity and enhanced supportive services.
Other academic and medical developments included the confirmation of Monica Bertagnolli, a 1985 graduate of the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, as the 16th Director of the National Institutes of Health. The University of Utah College of Nursing also celebrated its 75th anniversary.
