Dr. Teresa Owens Gardner Tyson, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, FAANP, is a distinguished leader in healthcare. As the president and CEO of St. Mary's Health Wagon, she has dedicated her career to enhancing medical services in rural Appalachia. Born into a coal-mining family in this historically underserved region, her early life was marked by the everyday struggles and health disparities faced by her community. These experiences ingrained in her a profound commitment to healthcare reform and fueled her ambition to provide comprehensive, accessible medical care to those most in need.
Since taking the helm at the Health Wagon, Dr. Tyson has transformed the organization into a vital healthcare provider for rural Virginia. Today, the network includes two stationary clinics, several mobile units, a pharmacy, and a dental clinic, all strategically designed to extend healthcare reach into remote areas. In 2024, these facilities managed nearly 29,000 patient interactions, showcasing their essential role in serving the region's healthcare needs.
Dr. Tyson's holistic and forward-thinking approach to healthcare innovation is holistic. She has been at the forefront of integrating telehealth solutions, significantly expanding specialist care access for isolated patients. Her efforts have dramatically improved the efficiency of medical consultations and treatments, allowing for broader care delivery in Appalachia’s challenging terrain. Additionally, her initiative to launch the first FAA-approved drone delivery system for pharmaceuticals in the U.S. has set a new standard for addressing logistical challenges in rural healthcare delivery.
Each year, Dr. Tyson organizes the Move Mountains Medical Mission, a pivotal event that provides thousands of Appalachians with free comprehensive healthcare services—including medical, dental, and vision care. This mission underlines her belief that healthcare is a fundamental right, emphasizing preventive care to improve community health outcomes over the long term.
Dr. Tyson’s dedication and innovative methods have reshaped healthcare delivery in Appalachian Virginia and brought her national and international recognition. She frequently shares her insights and strategies for rural health improvement at global forums, including the United Nations and the World Health Organization, advocating for policies that support rural healthcare development.
Beyond her clinical and operational roles, Dr. Tyson is deeply committed to educational outreach. She has fostered collaborations with over 50 academic institutions, creating a dynamic educational pathway that exposes students to the unique aspects of rural healthcare. These partnerships are vital for preparing a new generation of healthcare professionals who are committed to continuing their legacy of improving rural health access.
As Dr. Tyson looks to the future, she focuses on expanding the Health Wagon’s capabilities further. Her plans involve enhancing diagnostic services, incorporating more advanced medical technologies, and broadening the range of specialty care available to the community. These initiatives aim to ensure that comprehensive, state-of-the-art healthcare is accessible to all residents of the Appalachian region, addressing both immediate and preventive health needs.
Teresa Tyson’s personal journey and professional achievements make her a beacon of hope and a model of effective leadership in rural healthcare. Her unwavering dedication transforms lives in the present and paves the way for sustainable health improvements in Appalachia, securing a healthier future for future generations. Through her compassionate leadership and innovative approach, she continues to inspire and effect meaningful change in one of America’s most overlooked regions.
