This study gives us the ability to benchmark with other hospitals in the area. This is a team effort, from the ER to the caregivers on the floor.

This year's study reflects the financial distress hospitals have encountered in the wake of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997. Despite the difficulties facing them, the 100 top benchmark hospitals have maintained profitability and top clinical performance.

All of these top hospitals share eight common characteristics that drive their ability to deliver fast, effective treatment to patients with ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI). This study has direct and important information for hospitals around the country.

While all the sub-functions we closely examined in this study are critical to a sound medical affairs effort, we found that research/clinical operations received the most backing from companies. Clearly the sub- function holds great value to medical affairs.

There is no effort or study under way to consolidate the entire facility. We want to see if it makes sense to use the additional capacity in Houston. There are areas across the country where we're looking at total consolidation. Beaumont is not one of them.

We feel very humble the hospitals have held this reception for us. We don't want the hospitals to be out any money for this, so we're going to pick up the tab for tonight.