THA History

In 1930, the Texas Hospital Association was launched by a handful of hospital administrators who recognized the value of working together to provide superior health care. Since then, the health care industry has changed dramatically – and so has THA. Today, THA is one of the largest, most respected health care associations in the country, and the only association that represents the entire Texas hospital industry. The Texas Hospital Association serves as the political and educational advocate for more than 430 hospitals and health systems statewide. From the board room to the C-suite, savvy Texas hospital leaders know that THA is the place to make their voices heard on the issues most important to their operations.

Major Milestones

1930 – The Texas State Hospital Association founded in Dallas

1931 – The association obtains legislation authorizing Group Hospital Service Inc., the forerunner to Blue Cross/Blue Shield

1940 – The Association of Hospital Auxiliaries is formed, the first such organization in the nation and the first affiliate of the Texas Hospital Association. Over time, THA will have as many as 18 affiliated societies. The business structure of these evolved over time or were dissolved, but THA still today maintains affiliations with several key groups.

1960 - THA relocates its headquarters from Dallas to northeast Austin on Highway 290 East.

1964 - Landmark legislation marks the start of Medicare and Medicaid.

1965 – THA establishes the Earl M. Collier Award as its flagship award for excellence in hospital administration.

1969 – THA forms marketing subsidiary HealthSHARE.

1974 – Texas Hospital Insurance Exchange is launched, a wholly owned insurance reciprocal exchange.

2005 – THA celebrates its 75th anniversary.

2005 - THA creates the Excellence in Community Service Award as its highest honor for THA member hospitals.

2008 – The association relocates to new downtown Austin headquarters, just steps from the state capital.