USS Provider (NCC-68469)

"The art of healing comes from nature, not from the physician. Therefore the physician must start from nature, with an open mind."

- Philipus Aureolus Paracelsus

The USS Provider (NCC-68469) is a medical cruiser in service in the late 24th century. The Provider was launched from the Utopia Planitia Fleet Yards in 2384, along with most of the starships that now comprise the Vanguard Fleet, and was commissioned in 2385 under the technical command of Commodore Beverly Crusher, MD (although operational command falls under the ship's first officer, Captain Lance McCoy, since Crusher is also stationed onboard the USS Invincible as Chief Medical Officer).

The Provider was immediately assigned to serve as the flagship of Task Force Provider whose primary task is to ensure that the logistical needs of Vanguard Command and the Vanguard Fleet are provided for. As such, the ship leads thirty-four (34) other starships during task force formation.