Mega Doctor News
McALLEN, Texas – A major investment in the future of health care in the Rio Grande Valley will take shape Thursday, April 23, as the University of Houston and DHR Health Hospital System break ground on a new medical research and education center designed to strengthen the region’s health care workforce, expand access to care and advance community-focused medical training.
“Our mission has always been to elevate the quality of health care and medical education in the Rio Grande Valley,” said Susan Turley, president of DHR Health. “Partnering with the University of Houston allows us to accelerate that mission and bring new resources, research collaborations and training opportunities to the region. Together, we are investing in a healthier future for South Texas.”
Supported by a $15 million state appropriation, the center will serve as a hub for advancing medical research, expanding health education programs and improving access to care in one of Texas’ most medically underserved regions.
As part of the agreement, DHR Health will construct the facility, which will house joint research initiatives, clinical training programs and educational partnerships aimed at improving outcomes for conditions that disproportionately affect the region. The facility will also provide dedicated space for UH faculty, students and researchers to conduct clinical and translational research.
“This partnership represents the next step in our vision to grow a truly statewide medical school that trains the next generation of physicians where they are needed most,” said Jonathan A. McCullers, UH vice president of health affairs and dean of the Fertitta College of Medicine. “By combining the academic strength and clinical excellence of UH and DHR Health, we are creating an anchor for medical education and discovery in South Texas — one that will improve lives and advance the practice of medicine across the state.”
The collaboration brings together UH’s expertise in health sciences and DHR Health’s extensive clinical presence in South Texas to expand opportunities for medical students, residents and researchers while directly addressing some of the state’s most pressing health challenges.
| What: Groundbreaking for the new University of Houston and DHR Health Medical Research and Education Center |
| When: Thursday, April 23, 2026, 10:30 a.m. |
| Where: 1212 E. Dove Avenue, McAllen, TX 78504 |
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