Health class: industry group plots educational push to show health care gaining status in Metroplex economy. (Health Industry Council of Dallas-Fort Worth) (Industry Overview)

Tired of being the stepchild of the local business community, the health care industry is planning an assault on the minds of Dallas-area business leaders and consumers.

The Health Industry Council of Dallas-Fort Worth, a group of industry bigwigs, plans a massive educational effort to show just how much the industry contributes to the local economy -- and to persuade area investors and lenders that health care is the place to put their capital.

In a region traditionally known as a stronghold for the real estate, energy and defense industries -- and now with a reputation as a telecommunications center -- the thriving health industry has been dwarfed, said board chairman Gary Wood, chief executive officer of the Concorde Cos.

But as the area moves from a reliance on oil and real estate to a more diverse economy, health industries will step to the forefront, say leaders in the group, which comprises a who's who of local health care executives.

In fact, it may have gained that status …