Teresa Tyson
DNP FNP-BC FAANP CEO President Health Care in Wise, VA
Dr. Teresa Owens Gardner Tyson, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, FAANP, is a visionary healthcare leader and the President and CEO of St. Mary's Health Wagon in Central Appalachia. Her roots, deeply planted in the region's coal-mining communities, have shaped her commitment to addressing the acute healthcare disparities in rural Virginia. Through her leadership, the Health Wagon has grown into a comprehensive healthcare system that serves as a lifeline for thousands of underserved residents.
Born into a coal miner's family, Dr. Tyson's upbringing exposed her to the stark realities of health inequity. This personal connection to the struggles faced by her community inspired her to pursue a career where she could make a meaningful difference. Under her stewardship, the Health Wagon has expanded significantly, now featuring two fixed clinics, several mobile health units, a pharmacy, and a dental clinic designed to deliver critical medical services directly to those in need.
In 2024, the Health Wagon facilitated nearly 29,000 patient interactions, indicating its vital role in the community. Dr. Tyson's innovative approach to healthcare delivery has been instrumental in this success. She spearheaded the introduction of telemedicine services in the region, dramatically transforming patient access to specialist care. Additionally, she led the first FAA-approved drone delivery of pharmaceuticals in the U.S., further enhancing the organization's ability to reach remote patients efficiently.
Dr. Tyson’s initiatives reflect a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by rural populations, including economic barriers, transportation issues, and a lack of local healthcare providers. Her efforts go beyond disease treatment; she aims to uplift the entire community by improving overall health outcomes and quality of life.
Her leadership extends to organizing the annual Move Mountains Medical Mission, the most significant event in the U.S., providing thousands of Appalachians with free healthcare services. This event is a testament to Dr. Tyson’s belief in healthcare as a fundamental right, not a privilege, and showcases the Health Wagon’s commitment to holistic community health.