The health care industry is the leading job provider in Gilbert, employing more than 15,000 people, according to the town's Office of Economic Development.

The heath care industry grew more than 49% in town over the past five years — almost double the growth seen overall in Arizona during that time — and is projected to grow by another 16% in the next five years. 

Gilbert has three community hospitals — Banner Gateway Medical Center, Banner's MD Anderson Cancer Center and Dignity Health's Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. It also is home to  University of Arizona School of Nursing's Bachelor of Science in Nursing-Integrative Health program.

Dignity also is partnering with Phoenix Children's on an expansion project underway at the Mercy Gilbert Medical Center campus, the Women and Children's Pavilion.

The health care industry is a significant contributor to Gilbert’s economy, according to the town. In 2021, it generated more than $1 million in Gross Regional Product.

The report comes as Gilbert marks International Economic Development Week.

According to the town, from fiscal year 2017-18 to fiscal year 2021-22, the Office of Economic Development assisted on 113 projects that resulted in more than $1.2 billion in capital investment,  created or retained more than 13,500 jobs and  added 5.4 million square feet of new development.