News Release

Baxter International Inc. Names Chairman and CEO of Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield to Board of Directors

DEERFIELD, Ill., September 22, 2003 -- Baxter International Inc. (NYSE:BAX) today announced that John D. Forsyth has been elected to serve as a member of its board of directors. Forsyth, age 56, is currently the chairman and CEO of Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Forsyth was appointed president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Iowa and South Dakota in August 1996 and was appointed chairman and CEO in April 2000. Prior to that, Forsyth spent more than 25 years at the University of Michigan Health system, holding a number of positions including president and CEO.

"John brings extensive experience running one of the most highly regarded hospital systems in the United States, as well as the experience of running a large health insurance company," said Harry M. Jansen Kraemer Jr., Baxter chairman and chief executive officer. "We are looking forward to the unique perspectives on the economics of health care and various industry trends that he will bring to our board."

Forsyth is a past president of the Federation of Iowa Insurers, and past chairman of the board and executive committee of the United Way of Central Iowa and the Greater Des Moines Partnership. He also served as chairman of the investment committee for the Association of American Medical colleges and is a member of the University of Iowa Board of Regents. At the request of Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack, Forsyth recently prepared recommendations for the Governor relative to teacher compensation. In 2001, Vilsack nominated Forsyth for the National Governors Association Distinguished Service to State Government Award.

Forsyth received a bachelor's degree in business administration and a master's degree in economics from Michigan State University.

Forsyth is a contributing editor for Hospital and Health Services Administration, the Journal of the American College of Health Care Executives and has also authored or co-authored numerous articles regarding health insurance and health care systems.

Baxter International Inc., through its subsidiaries, assists health-care professionals and their patients with treatment of complex medical conditions, including cancer, hemophilia, immune disorders, kidney disease and trauma. The company applies its expertise in medical devices, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology to make a meaningful difference in patients' lives.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

	Media Contact: Deborah Spak, 847-948-2349