Elimination of an anti-competitive activity — the line between hospital and insurance inside IHC has been fuzzy, providing the organization an advantage. The task force compelled IHC to establish organizational systems that formally separated hospital and health insurance functions, especially in contract negotiations with competitors. However, predatory practices are still being alleged.

These important, long-term changes will ease the strain carried by many struggling to pay their medical bills. They'll also provide a measure of equity to the state's physicians and insurance companies.

I commend Intermountain Healthcare for its active cooperation. A number of medical providers, insurance companies and consumer advocates exhibited courage by articulating different viewpoints.

Finally, I honor my fellow task force members for their diligent efforts. Now the Legislature must work to give consumers information on health-care pricing and quality and allow them to choose the best doctor and facility for their care, regardless of insurance coverage.

I plan on introducing legislation to support patient choice. Utah patients feel that the sanctity of the doctor-patient relationship is being violated by "big corporate health interests."

The task force made significant strides toward improving and understanding our state's complex health system. Our committee will carry that invaluable knowledge with us into the legislative session. It will serve us well as we work to ensure that all Utahns have access to the highest quality of health care at the most reasonable prices.

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State Sen. Michael Waddoups represents constituents in Taylorsville and West Jordan.