Newly Released Data from Central Health Shows Dell Med Partnership Strengthening Care for Patients

AUSTIN, Texas — Central Health presented newly compiled data to the Travis County Commissioners Court on Tuesday further illustrating how providers affiliated with Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin are improving health in Travis County.

The analysis provides a clear picture of how Central Health patients are served by Dell Med providers, where they receive care, and the types of services delivered.

“This data clearly demonstrates the value of Central Health’s voter-approved $35 million annual investment in Dell Medical School,” said Dr. Pat Lee, president and CEO of Central Health. “Just as important, it’s more proof this partnership is delivering real impact for people with low income, our patients.”

Key Takeaways from the Presentation

The analysis, which focuses on patients covered by Central Health’s Medical Access Program (MAP) and MAP Basic coverage programs, and Ascension charity care—another form of financial assistance for uncovered patients—highlights how Dell Med-affiliated providers contributed to creating greater access from fiscal years (FY) 2023–2025:

• Dell Med-affiliated providers served nearly 25% of all Central Health patients.
• Dell Med providers delivered more than 300,000 patient encounters over the three-year period, increasing from 95,633 in FY23 to more than 104,900 in FY25.
• A majority of patients served identified as Hispanic or Black, and more than half were Spanish-speaking. Women accounted for most patient visits, with Dell Med providers caring for nearly 43,000 female patients from FY23–FY25. This data aligns with Central Health’s patient demographics.
• Patients from high-need ZIP codes—including 78744 (Southeast Austin) and 78617 (Del Valle)—had some of the highest utilization of Dell Med provider services.

The top sites of care for patients seen by Dell Med providers include Dell Seton Medical Center, Seton Medical Center Austin, CommUnityCare Southeast Health & Wellness Center, CommUnityCare North Central Health Center, and Dell Children’s Medical Center.

Part of a Broader System Role

The data captures only part of the partnership’s impact. Combined, UT and Dell Med contribute substantial systemwide value through:

• Redesigning care models
• Clinical research
• Quality improvements within federally qualified health centers (FQHCs)
• Physician education, training, and recruitment
• Helping reduce avoidable emergency department admissions

Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

This enhanced reporting comes in direct response to the 2024 independent performance review conducted by Mazars USA, ordered by the Travis County Commissioners Court.

That review confirmed that the annual $35 million investment complies with the affiliation agreement, and it recommended greater granularity in how patient impact is tracked and shared.

“This is the best report I have heard so far and I’m very appreciative of it,” said Commissioner Margaret Gómez. “People want to know what’s being done with their money, and this (report) is the best way to show them how it is reaching people, the original purpose of Central Health.”

Presentation Resources

Download the full data presentation: https://cdn.intelligencebank.com/us/share/BnK4M4/74AZO/09q8D/original/12.17.25+Central+Health-Dell+Med+Partnership+Update