Founded in 1969, the TTUHSC School of Medicine has continually worked to address the shortage of physicians in West Texas by providing quality, innovative educational opportunities to medical students and residents who serve as competent and compassionate medical professionals for the region and the state of Texas. The medical education program emphasizes the principles of primary care and provides sound inter-disciplinary and inter-professional training that integrates basic sciences knowledge, clinical skill, diversity, and a humanistic approach focusing on high standards and comprehensive evaluation. The school's medical practice, Texas Tech Physicians, strives to utilize state-of-the-art technology to effectively meet the growing needs of a diverse and largely rural patient population through strong partnerships with clinical affiliates. Principles of teamwork, humanistic care, and cost effectiveness are embedded into the practice of medicine. The research strategy of the school is to develop insights into the science of medicine, treatments, prevention, and cures, and enhanced methods for managing patient illness, with an emphasis on opportunities for medical student research. Centers of Excellence and Institutes work toward defined areas of excellence where contributions on a national level can be made.