February 14, 2005

FAQ: TMH-UHS Agreement

Q There are a number of hospitals and universities in this area. Why did The Methodist Hospital and the University of Houston System form this partnership?

A These two institutions recognized a common desire to improve their biomedical research, health care capabilities and educational programs. There is great compatibility in their current resources and future objectives. The University of Houston System’s Board of Regents’ recent strategic plan specifically calls for an increased presence in the Texas Medical Center. The new Methodist Hospital’s Research Institute reflects a commitment to significantly advancing its translational and clinical research. In other words, each institution is uniquely positioned to help the other by sharing facilities, personnel and programs.

Q Is this UHS’s first involvement in the Texas Medical Center?

A UH has been involved in a number of other TMC interactions, with pharmacy, optometry and health law affiliations, as well as ongoing research projects with TMC members, including TMH.

Q Since there are several UH and TMH researchers already collaborating on projects, why is a formal agreement necessary?

A While those individual projects reflect the natural affinity that researchers at the two institutions have, this agreement allows strategic coordination at the highest level, encourages an even greater level of interaction and permits combined solicitation of research funds.

Q How much money is involved?

A There are no direct financial commitments. Moving forward, the two institutions may agree to mutual financial commitments for the purchase of land or facilities, building facilities or buying equipment.

Q How will such decisions be made?

A All joint activities under this agreement will be determined by an executive committee composed of equal numbers of members appointed by the UHS Chancellor and the TMH CEO. The UHS Chancellor appoints the chairman of this group and the TMH CEO appoints the vice chairman.

Q Does the agreement specify any future plans?

A Yes. UHS hopes to develop a Health Sciences Center and TMH will support that objective, serving as the hospital affiliate for such a center. Additionally, the two institutions plan to develop new educational programs. Naturally, we will seek authorization for any such initiatives that require approval of the Texas Legislature or the Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Q Both TMH and UHS are already involved in relationships with several other institutions. Does this agreement have an impact on any of those?

A No. This agreement doesn’t replace existing relationships and doesn’t diminish the importance of any of them. If anything, it should enhance them by making both TMH and UHS stronger institutions in general and better partners with their current associates.

Q What are the immediate effects of this agreement?

A Candidates for joint appointments to both institutions are being interviewed, bringing the top researchers and scientists of the world to our area. Facility sharing between UH and TMH is already being arranged. And applications are being initiated for broader research funding.

Q What does it mean to the average person?

A It means that research to improve medical treatment will go from the laboratory bench to a patient’s bedside faster. It means health care professionals will have greater access to first-rate training and educational programs. It means that health services available to the Houston community will be expanded and biomedical knowledge for the world will be increased.