Specialization. That would certainly be one of the stamps that identify our faster-than-ever pace toward becoming the recognized Medical Center of the Americas.

"Specialization" has been added to the mix with the opening of the University Medical Center's Women's Pavilion and Outpatient Center. It's to be staffed by physicians who specialize in high-risk pregnancies.

There have been other stamps en route to MCA status.

"Land" was donated for Texas Tech's four-year medical school adjacent to the UMC campus.

"The Paul L. Foster School of Medicine" on that Tech campus is up and running.

"Philanthropy" is a stamp. Private money and gift donations have been important to keep the trek going.

Land for the "research" MCA feels is essential in treating border-related diseases has been acquired. The city recently leased more than 11 acres near Texas Tech/UMC as a lure for attracting research companies.

Now comes the "specialization" for women, followed by more "specialization" when the El Paso Children's Hospital part of the new 10-story building opens in February.

We have long been undeserved when it comes to specialist physicians.

Now we have a four-year medical school, plans for a nursing school on the campus, a revitalized UMC, five floors of the Women's Pavilion and Outpatient Center -- and next up is five floors of the El Paso Children's Hospital right above.

It remains a long-range plan to be recognized as the premier hub for treating and researching border-related diseases.

But in the past five years, we have moved quickly.

Next up? The expanded nursing program, perhaps a pharmaceutical school, a dental school -- and of big importance, research companies to move onto the campus.

Today, a Women's Pavilion has been checked off the to-do list.