Border Study on Medical Training Needs SB 1378 by Senator Shapleigh directs the Coordinating Board to conduct a study and develop recommendations on medical training needs for health professionals in the border area based on an assessment by TDH of future border medical and health care services, and other needs requirements for this area. Results are to be reported to the governor and the 77 th legislature by Jan. 1, 2001. During committee hearings on this bill, Senator Shapleigh said this study would determine the need for a new medical school in the border area. Previously, historical funding patterns and special requests have driven the medical school appropriations process. Under formulas, medical schools will be funded per student, with adjustments for infrastructure and research costs.
Schools can also receive special item funding.
Most of the state's eight medical schools saw only slight increases, ranging from 2 percent to 7 percent, under the new funding method compared with last biennium. Using a formula method that funds schools on a per capita basis could be a disincentive for downsizing enrollments, should the need arise in the future in response to a physician oversupply. This report was distributed to all legislators during the session. This information is to be reported to the Legislative Budget Board, the Senate Finance Committee and the House Appropriations Committee. This means health-related institutions, including medical schools that pay TMA dues for physicians in administrative or faculty positions, will be required to report this activity to three state entities.