Strategic Planning & Institutional Analysis

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Strategic Directions 2007-2013

Summary

In the fall of 2005, leaders at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHSC-H), embarked on a new strategic planning initiative designed to map out a series of directions for the next three legislative biennia. Under the direction of the Office of the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Deans and Vice Presidents were asked to develop a list of priorities for their area; these priorities were coalesced into the document you find here.

Broad themes include the cultivation of focused, collaborative academic and research programs, successful recruitment and retention programs aimed at attracting – and keeping – top notch, diversified students, faculty, and staff; the provision of appropriate and compassionate patient care; and the creation of a sound infrastructure that supports these priorities.

While ambitious, this plan has the potential to position UTHSC-H as an institution upon which Texans and the nation can consistently rely. Recognizing that such ambition is not cost-free, the latter part of the plan lays out projected financial implications as a first step in an effort to more closely link planning activities with budget decisions. A key principle of this plan is fiscal responsibility; close monitoring of plan-related finances will occur regularly. If actual expenses begin to exceed anticipated revenues, plan adjustments will ensure that the institution realizes positive operating margins. Being fiscally responsible yet still responsive to the needs of the State of Texas – be it by educating students, conducting research or providing patient care -- is paramount.

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last updated: September 6, 2006