Author: Julian Herrera
Advancing Limb Salvage Care in the Rio Grande Valley: Dr. Andrew Gomes and PAD Specialists-Brownsville Celebrate Over 3,000 Successful Procedures The landscape of limb salvage care is undergoing a significant transformation in the Rio Grande Valley, thanks to the pioneering efforts of Dr. Andrew Gomes and the expert team at PAD Specialists-Brownsville. Recently, they celebrated a remarkable milestone—performing over 3,000 successful procedures aimed at treating Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). This achievement not only highlights their dedication to patient care but also signifies a stride forward in advanced medical interventions for this chronic condition. Understanding Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) What is…
The Rio Grande Valley’s tech scene just got a major makeover. GoBelle, the “DoorDash for beauty,” is officially live. Founded by locals and developed by RGV Web Design, this innovative app connects you with top-tier stylists and barbers at the touch of a button. Learn why supporting this homegrown, female-led tech startup is the best way to look great while boosting the local economy.
Hidalgo County Cancels Operation Border Health: A Significant Public Health Event Postponed Overview of the Cancellation The Hidalgo County Health and Human Services Department has officially announced the cancellation of this year’s Operation Border Health event, originally slated for July 21–25, 2025. This decision was not made lightly and comes in response to recent funding cuts and a diminished local workforce. As a result, the department recognized its inability to support such a significant event to the standards that both the community and its partners expect. Implications for the Community Dairen Sarmiento Rangel, the Director of Hidalgo County Health and…
Dr. Jennifer A. Wood: Leading Mental Health Innovations in the VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Introduction On September 11, 2022, Dr. Jennifer A. Wood was appointed as the Chief of Staff for the VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System. A South Texas native, Dr. Wood’s journey in mental health has been marked by her dedication to enhancing psychological care and innovative program development. Educational Background Dr. Wood earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Mississippi. Her commitment to serving her community led her back to Texas, where she completed an internship and fellowship at the…
Growing Mental Health Services in the Rio Grande Valley With a staggering one in four individuals expected to face mental health challenges in their lifetime, the demand for mental health services has dramatically risen. Tropical Texas Behavioral Health (TTBH) has responded to this urgent need, expanding its workforce by an impressive 650% over the years to provide essential support and resources to the Rio Grande Valley. Rising Demand for Mental Health Support According to Terry Crocker, the CEO of TTBH, the organization is set to provide services to over 32,000 individuals this year alone. This increase in patients highlights an…
South Texas Health System: Cultivating Healthcare Talent in the Rio Grande Valley The landscape of healthcare in the Rio Grande Valley is changing, thanks to dedicated residents and physicians at South Texas Health System (STHS). Amid a nationwide shortage of healthcare professionals exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, these medical practitioners are choosing to stay in their communities, fostering local talent and enhancing patient care in the region. The Heart of the Valley: Why Medical Residents Stay In an era where healthcare workers frequently move to larger cities for opportunities, many like Bianca Nuñez, a 33-year-old from Pharr, are choosing to…
Winter Texan Expo & Health Fair: A Successful Celebration in Brownsville The 2026 Winter Texan Expo & Health Fair, held at the Brownsville Events Center, proved to be a memorable day for both residents and visitors of the Rio Grande Valley. This annual event not only showcased the unique culture of the region but also provided essential health resources and entertainment for the community. Highlights of the Event The expo welcomed a diverse crowd, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with activities aimed at connecting the Winter Texan community. Attendees enjoyed a variety of entertainment options, including live music, local performances,…
Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley: A New Era in Pediatric Healthcare Edinburg, TX – May 8, 2024 – The grand opening of Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley marks a significant milestone for pediatric care in South Texas. This state-of-the-art facility is set to provide acute pediatric specialty care around the clock, ensuring that children from the Rio Grande Valley have access to vital medical services 24/7. A Comprehensive Healthcare Provider for Children Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley is designed to meet the burgeoning healthcare requirements of a community that includes over half a million children. With 119…
Addressing Health Disparities in the Rio Grande Valley: A Commitment to Community Care Leading Change Through Pharmacy Education and Community Engagement In the heart of the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) lies a unique healthcare challenge that demands innovative solutions. The University of Houston College of Pharmacy (UHCOP) is taking a proactive approach through its RGV Pharm.D. Satellite Program, aimed at bridging gaps in healthcare access and education. By focusing on health disparities prevalent in the region, this initiative strives to empower students and serve a diverse community effectively. The Health Landscape of the RGV The RGV, which encompasses the counties…
Legal Challenge to Rio Grande LNG Project Highlights Environmental Justice Concerns Introduction The Rio Grande LNG project, situated near Port Isabel and Brownsville, Texas, has come under legal scrutiny once again. Recent developments reveal that federal regulators are not adequately addressing potential air pollution and its impact on public health, leading to a lawsuit by various environmental groups. Background on the Lawsuit In early October, Earthjustice, the Sierra Club, the City of Port Isabel, and the South Texas Environmental Justice Network filed a lawsuit against the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for approving the controversial Rio Grande LNG project. This…