Texas Medical Foundation Announces Name Change
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Emilie Fennell
(512) 334-1649
efennell@txqio.sdps.org
1-800-725-9216
(July 18, 2005 – AUSTIN) – On July 18, 2005 the Texas Medical Foundation officially changed its name to TMF Health Quality Institute (TMF).
The name change reflects the transition from quality assurance to a new approach that involves health care providers in quality improvement processes. Another reason for the change is the evolving capabilities of TMF as one of the nation’s leading quality improvement organizations (QIO).
TMF was founded on December 27, 1971 as a physician peer review organization. “We reviewed the quality of patient care delivered by Texas physicians,” said William Gamel, MD, CEO of TMF. “In recent years, we’ve increased the scope of our capabilities and even expanded beyond Texas. For that reason, we undertook a major research project, which included focus groups, to evaluate our image and awareness levels among our various partner groups and the general public.”
The focus groups were conducted with physicians, nurses and administrators of hospitals, nursing homes and home health agencies.
The research showed that TMF is viewed by all of its stakeholder groups as a reliable resource of health care information and a vital partner in helping organizations deliver better care for their patients. “So it was recommended that we modify the name, while retaining a link to these positive beliefs about our organization,” stated Dr. Gamel.
Dr. Gamel extended his thanks to the health care community for taking part in the focus groups. “We value our partnerships with members of the health care community, and we thank them for helping us in this process. We hope the future brings about more collaboration.”
About TMF Health Quality Institute
TMF Health Quality Institute, formerly Texas Medical Foundation, is an Austin, Texas-based nonprofit consulting company focused on promoting quality health and health care through contracts with federal, state and local governments, as well as private organizations. TMF partners with health care providers in a variety of settings to ensure that every person receives the appropriate care, every time.