University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
A Limited Review on Management Controls at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Report Number 97-090
August 1997
Overall Conclusion
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (Health Science Center) has adequate controls in place over planning and budgeting in the South Texas/Border Region Health Professional Education Initiative (Initiative) and Area Health Education Center (AHEC) programs. Further, significant issues identified in the 1993 management control audit have been addressed.
Key Facts and Findings
Administration of Initiative programs could be enhanced if line and staff responsibilities for the Initiative were more closely aligned. Also, recent changes in the General Appropriations Act have placed restrictions on administrative expenses and placed more emphasis on program development. To maintain the current level of programs, management must either curtail costs or increase institutional funding.
The Health Science Center was not in technical compliance with an AHEC grant administrative requirement. Monies for medical education programs were allocated directly to the component schools administering the programs instead of being channeled through the AHECs as required by the grant.
The Health Science Center has outlined a Strategic Plan consistent with their statutory functions and formulated action plans and developed policies and procedures to ensure the University's goals and objectives are achieved. However, the component schools, with the exception of the Medical School, have not yet completed their individual strategic and action plans.
The Medical Service Research and Development Plan (Plan) is continuing to centralize its billing operations as recommended by the State Auditor's 1993 management control audit. Also, opportunities exist for strengthening internal controls in various areas of Plan administration.
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio is in a unique position to address the education and health needs of South Texas and the Border region. It is imperative that they continue to make progress in the challenges presented here.
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