The South Texas Medical Center
with its ten major hospitals

The San Antonio Medical Foundation was formed in 1947 with the primary purpose of obtaining a medical school for South Texas. In 1959, the State Legislature approved a bill, authorizing and directing the University of Texas Board of Regents, to establish a medical branch or department within Bexar County. The San Antonio Medical Foundation provided land for long term expansion and other facilities.

In 1961, the voters of Bexar County approved a $6,500,000 bond issue for the construction of a teaching hospital, an essential element for the success of a medical school. Requests for land by major health care facilities followed.

"The mission of the San Antonio Medical Foundation is to improve health care, advance biomedical science, and enhance community well-being by providing leadership and active stewardship of our land and other assets." The San Antonio Medical Foundation Trustees evaluate all requests, research the need and land required, and arrange leases to benefit the facility and the future development of the Medical Center. Priority is given to institutions providing medically related services, research, and/or education. The Foundation board is comprised of 50 civic, professional, business, and medical leaders who serve as volunteers.

The South Texas Medical Center has 44 medically related treatment, education and research facilities, as well as nursing facilities, assisted living facilities and medical professional office buildings. Other support activities include banks, post office, power plant, pharmacies and housing facilities. Approximately 330 acres are held for future expansion.

With more than 26,000 people employed in the South Texas Medical Center, it is the largest income generator in San Antonio. The South Texas Medical Center is recognized worldwide for the impact of its research, patient diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation, degree programs, continuing education, and state-of-the-art physical structures.