Health Wagon began its mission in 1980 with a modest Volkswagen Beetle navigating the rugged roads of Appalachia. Sister Bernie Kenny founded this initiative, which has since become a leading example of rural healthcare innovation in the United States. It primarily serves Virginia's underserved communities. Over the past four decades, it has grown into a comprehensive healthcare network recognized as a nationwide model for rural health delivery. Starting as a mobile clinic, the organization has expanded to include two stationary clinics, four mobile units, a complete pharmacy, and an advanced dental facility. In 2024, St. Mary's Health Wagon provided nearly 29,000 patient encounters, emphasizing its critical role as a healthcare lifeline for southwestern Virginia’s most vulnerable populations. Health Wagon operates in areas representing some of America’s deepest healthcare divides. The disparity in life expectancy between the wealthier northern parts of Virginia and the impoverished Appalachian areas can exceed ten years, a gap that the organization strives to close through accessible, quality healthcare. The organization has pioneered numerous healthcare innovations. Notably, in 2015, it participated in the first FAA-approved drone delivery of medication in the U.S., an achievement featured in the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum. It also became the first mobile clinic to implement SpaceX's Starlink program for satellite-enabled telehealth services in remote areas. Health Wagon’s commitment to innovation extends to hosting Virginia’s first remote wound care clinic and developing extensive post-COVID care programs. In partnership with the University of Virginia, it also facilitated the world’s first remote cystoscopy procedures for bladder cancer detection, proving that specialized care can reach rural areas through technological advancements. Furthermore, since 2016, Health Wagon has collaborated with the Department of Defense to provide free medical, dental, and vision services, setting a precedent for successful military-civilian healthcare partnerships. The comprehensive care model adopted by Health Wagon goes beyond immediate medical services, addressing the broader social determinants of health. For example, the Owens and Hill Dental Health Clinic offers essential dental services and educational opportunities, enhancing the community’s overall health infrastructure. Health Wagon also spearheads the Move Mountains Medical Mission (M7), a significant health initiative that annually provides thousands with free medical, dental, and vision services. This demonstrates a sustained commitment to overcoming healthcare barriers in rural America. Looking ahead, Health Wagon is preparing to introduce mobile endoscopy and the first mobile CT scanner for rural areas, continuing its legacy of healthcare innovation. These upcoming services are part of a broader plan to enhance disease detection and treatment accessibility in Appalachia’s most underserved regions. For additional information on Health Wagon’s impactful initiatives and plans, visit its website or engage with it on social media.