Hull York Medical School was founded in September 2003 as a partnership between the University of Hull, the University of York and the NHS in North and East Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire. Its first cohort of students graduated in 2008. The development and ethos of the school reflects innovative thinking about the kind of medical education required in the 21st century and a collaborative model of research development. Hull York Medical School provides a focus for improving the quality and equity of local health care and population health, the continuing professional development of all staff at all levels in the NHS, and assisting the NHS to retain newly qualified doctors. It is also the engine for the development of excellent medical and health research in the region.