FAQ

Answers to some of the more frequently asked questions are included in this section. Trustees are always welcome to contact Texas Healthcare Trustees with questions, concerns or suggestions.

TEXAS HEALTHCARE TRUSTEES

Q: What do health care trustees do and why are they so important?

A: Health care trustees are required not only to represent the communities they serve, but also to understand and deal with the problems of the entire health care system. These trustees must:

• Define and safeguard their institution's mission;
• Select and support a CEO;
• Ensure, promote and improve their institution's financial viability;
• Appoint and maintain a qualified medical staff;
• Assess and improve the quality of care provided;
• Monitor the effectiveness of their institution's services and programs;
• Promote positive relationships with local, state and federal governments, the community and funding sources; and
• Supervise the welfare of the hospital or health care organization, and ensure that their institution meets the community's needs.

GOVERNANCE

Q: What is governance and why is it so important?

A: Every large organization has a governing board whose members are charged with making and administering policies; the act of doing so is called governance. The quality of a board's governance can make the difference between whether that institution survives, flourishes or fails. The stakes are particularly high for health care organizations; if they fail, the health, well-being and economic stability of their communities may never recover