Teresa Tyson

Dr. Teresa Owens Gardner Tyson, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, FAANP, has dedicated her career to transforming rural healthcare in Appalachia as the President and CEO of St. Mary’s Health Wagon. Her personal history as a coal miner's daughter in this underserved region deeply informs her commitment to health equity and her holistic approach to medical care. Driven by her roots, she has guided the Health Wagon to become a crucial healthcare resource, providing a broad range of services to some of Virginia’s most isolated communities. Under Dr. Tyson's direction, The Health Wagon has expanded from its beginnings as a mobile clinic to include two stationary clinics, multiple mobile units, a pharmacy, and a dental clinic. This growth has significantly increased access to healthcare, with the organization recording nearly 29,000 patient interactions in 2024. Her leadership is characterized by a forward-thinking approach that embraces innovative healthcare solutions to overcome the geographic and economic barriers inherent in rural healthcare delivery. A key aspect of Dr. Tyson’s strategy includes the pioneering use of telehealth, which has revolutionized how residents in remote areas receive medical consultations and treatments. Under her guidance, the Health Wagon was one of the first in the nation to use drone technology to deliver pharmaceuticals, ensuring timely and efficient distribution of essential medications across rugged terrain. Dr. Tyson also orchestrates the annual Move Mountains Medical Mission, a critical initiative that provides comprehensive medical, dental, and vision services free of charge. This mission is vital in a region where many cannot afford basic healthcare, reinforcing her belief in healthcare as a right, not a privilege. Her efforts extend to preventative care, aiming to reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases that are disproportionately high in Appalachian populations. Her work has not only made a significant impact locally but has also gained national and international recognition. Dr. Tyson has been featured in major media outlets and has spoken at prestigious venues like the United Nations and the World Health Organization, where she advocates for rural health issues. Her efforts have earned her numerous awards, including recognitions for innovation and community service. Education and mentorship are pillars of Dr. Tyson’s long-term strategy for sustaining healthcare improvements. She has partnered with more than 50 academic institutions, allowing students to gain practical experience in rural health settings. This initiative helps ensure a steady flow of healthcare professionals prepared to tackle rural medicine's unique challenges. Looking ahead, Dr. Tyson plans to expand the Health Wagon's reach and services further. Her future initiatives include enhancing mobile health services and incorporating more advanced diagnostic tools to provide early detection and treatment of diseases prevalent in rural areas. These plans underscore her commitment to not just treating illness but also to improving the overall health and well-being of the Appalachian community. Balancing her professional commitments with her personal life, Teresa Tyson is a mother of four and a grandmother, drawing strength and inspiration from her family. Her legacy is one of compassion, innovation, and unwavering dedication to the communities of Appalachia, ensuring that her impact will be felt for generations to come. Through her visionary leadership, she demonstrates that even the most underserved regions can look forward to a future where quality healthcare is accessible.