University HealthSystem Consortium, an alliance of the clinical enterprises of approximately 90 academic health centers, is mindful and supports the research and education missions, while focusing on the clinical mission. As an idea-generating and information-disseminating enterprise, University HealthSystem Consortium helps members pool resources, create economies of scale, improve clinical and operating efficiencies, and influence the direction and delivery of health care. University HealthSystem Consortium's unique products and services empower its members, meeting and anticipating their needs, whether they be cost-saving purchasing agreements, new business and enterprise management strategies, or benchmarking data. UHC distributed $30.2 million in 2002 UHC patronage dividends to its members in May 2003. UHC’s databases and other management information tools provide the support and resources for effective clinical and operational decision-making. UHC’s improvement and effectiveness services focus on enhancing practice management, improving members’ clinical and operational performance, and providing the support and resources for effective clinical decision-making. One of the most powerful benefits of UHC is the economy of scale achieved by its shared purchasing programs.