Author: Julian Herrera
Breakthrough Cardiac Care: First “Optimizer Smart Mini” Device Launched in South Texas June 4, 2025 — Harlingen, TX – In a notable advancement in cardiac care, a Rio Grande Valley man became the first patient south of San Antonio to receive the innovative "Optimizer® Smart Mini – CCM device." This state-of-the-art device is designed to enhance heart function in patients suffering from heart failure. Dr. Frank Mazzola, a prominent Cardiac Electrophysiologist at the South Heart Clinic, performed the pioneering procedure at Harlingen Medical Center. What is the “Optimizer Smart Mini”? The “Optimizer Smart Mini” is a compact device that utilizes…
The Impact of Expiring Affordable Care Act Subsidies on the Rio Grande Valley Introduction to Health Care Changes In McAllen, Texas, residents like Alix Flores, aged 62, are bracing for an impending shift in their health insurance landscape. Over the years, Flores has navigated various roles ranging from nonprofit work to public health services, always with an eye on maintaining employment for health insurance coverage. However, the landscape of health insurance has dramatically changed due to the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The Affordable Care Act’s Role The ACA was designed to increase access to health insurance for many Americans, particularly…
Outbreak Alert: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Hidalgo County Hidalgo County is currently facing a concerning outbreak of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), with over 60 reported cases across four local schools. Health officials are urging parents to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their children from this contagious illness. Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Hand, foot, and mouth disease is most commonly seen in children, though it can also affect adults. The disease is caused by various viruses, primarily the coxsackievirus. Infection spreads easily among young children, particularly in settings like schools and daycares,…
Celebrating New Nurse Graduates: A Milestone for Healthcare in the Rio Grande Valley Rio Grande Valley College and DHR Health Unite to Strengthen Healthcare Workforce On December 18, 2025, a momentous event took place at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance, where 11 dedicated individuals celebrated their graduation from the Registered Nurse Apprenticeship Program. This event, co-hosted by Rio Grande Valley College and DHR Health, marks the third cohort of graduates in this impactful program designed to enhance the local healthcare workforce. A Collaborative Approach to Address Nursing Shortages The Registered Nurse Apprenticeship Program was established in collaboration with the…
Celebrating the Next Generation of Healthcare: RN Apprenticeship Program Graduates in the Rio Grande Valley Introduction On December 18, 2025, a momentous event unfolded at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. DHR Health and Rio Grande Valley College proudly celebrated the graduation of 11 dedicated individuals from their Registered Nurse Apprenticeship Program. This ceremony not only marked the completion of the program’s third cohort but also reinforced the commitment to nurturing skilled nursing professionals in the region. Advancing Healthcare in the Rio Grande Valley The partnership between Rio Grande Valley College and DHR Health is pivotal to enhancing the local…
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…