Health Wagon started its mission in 1980 with a Volkswagen Beetle navigating the challenging Appalachian roads. Founded by Sister Bernie Kenny, this organization has evolved into a significant force in rural healthcare across America, particularly impacting Virginia's underserved communities. Today, as a comprehensive network, it is a model for rural healthcare innovation. Since its inception as a mobile clinic, St. Mary's Health Wagon has expanded to include two stationary clinics, four mobile units, a complete pharmacy, and a modern dental facility. In 2024, it provided care through nearly 29,000 patient encounters, underlining its vital role as a primary healthcare resource for southwestern Virginia’s most vulnerable populations. Health Wagon operates in a region that epitomizes some of America’s most severe healthcare disparities. The life expectancy difference between the wealthier northern areas and the impoverished Appalachian regions in Virginia can exceed ten years, underscoring a critical gap the organization strives to bridge. The organization has been at the forefront of healthcare innovation. In 2015, it was involved in the first FAA-approved drone delivery of medication in the U.S., a milestone now featured in the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum. It was also the first mobile clinic to employ SpaceX's Starlink program for satellite-enabled telehealth services in remote areas. Health Wagon’s commitment to innovation includes establishing Virginia’s first remote wound care clinic and developing extensive post-COVID care programs. Collaborating with the University of Virginia, it facilitated the world's first remote cystoscopy procedures for bladder cancer detection, showcasing how technology can extend specialized care to remote settings. Since 2016, Health Wagon has partnered with the Department of Defense to provide free medical, dental, and vision services, establishing a model for military-civilian healthcare collaborations. The organization’s comprehensive care model addresses immediate medical needs and tackles the broader social determinants of health. The Owens and Hill Dental Health Clinic offers essential dental care and promotes educational opportunities and advanced treatment options, such as 3D-printed dentures. Additionally, Health Wagon organizes the Move Mountains Medical Mission (M7), a significant initiative that offers free healthcare services to thousands annually, emphasizing its commitment to reducing healthcare barriers in rural America. Looking forward, Health Wagon is preparing to introduce mobile endoscopy and the first mobile CT scanner for rural areas, continuing its legacy of healthcare innovation. These new services will further enhance its ability to deliver specialized healthcare directly to Appalachia's most underserved communities. For more information about Health Wagon’s innovative programs and impacts, visit their website or connect via social media platforms.