A closer look at the Utah Health Exchange.

• Author: Francom, Sarah Ryther
• Position: From the Editor - Letter to the editor

Uncertainty is the word of choice for many right now. From the Wall Street chaos to the debt-ceiling debates, there are many uncertainties looming around us. Ranking high on likely everyone's list of problems to solve is healthcare. With rising costs on all ends, questions about Obama's healthcare reform, and benefits--like Medicaid--being examined, there is much to question about the future of healthcare in the United States.

Yet despite the unanswered questions and unresolved issues, there is much to be proud of and grateful for. In this issue of Utah Business, we honor a selection of healthcare professionals who have remained committed to bettering the health and lives of Utahns and individuals across the world. Regardless of the ups and downs the industry is experiencing, these Healthcare Heroes value our health more than the balance sheet. They remain devoted to the art of healing and hope. Read their stories beginning on page 58.

Though there are undoubtedly many issues to be resolved in the nations healthcare Industry, the state of Utah hasn't been standing by waiting for problems to be solved. The states innovative Utah Health Exchange portal is an example of how the Beehive State is leading the way in this uncertain industry--and many throughout the United States are watching.

The Utah Health Exchange allows participating employers to offer health insurance options to their employees through a defined-contribution marketplace--and it has promised to be a win-win. Here's how7 it works: Participating employers designate a specific dollar amount for their employees to purchase health insurance from participating health insurance companies--all through the exchange portal. Employers no longer have the burden of selecting plans for...