Austin, Texas (September 10, 2025) — The Texas Association of Rural Health Clinics honored UT Health East Texas Physicians in Jacksonville with the Tessen Award, which recognizes a Texas rural health clinic for outstanding achievements and enduring ability to drive community health and value through primary care.
The award, which is given annually to only one of 330 rural health clinics in Texas, was presented Wednesday during the Texas Association of Rural Health Clinics’ annual conference in Austin.
“Rural communities are the backbone of East Texas, and we’re committed to providing high quality care close to home for residents in our rural communities,” said Quinten Harrison, UT Health East Texas Physicians senior practice administrator for rural health clinics. “Investing in rural care means fewer barriers, shorter drives and healthier communities.”
The clinic was recognized in the awards presentation for key initiatives including expanding telehealth and specialty services, leading community wellness efforts like Walk with a Doc, renovating local parks, supporting schools with physicals and supply drives and improved vaccination access.
“The clinic exemplifies the mission of advancing access, quality and innovation in rural healthcare. It consistently surpasses industry benchmarks and serves as a model for integrated, community-focused care,” the awards program read.
Named after Robert (Sam) Tessen, a pioneer in establishing the Rural Health Clinic designation and advocating for clinics at state and federal levels, the Tessen Award celebrates a clinic’s commitment to community accomplishments and elevating the need for quality rural healthcare.
“Our mission is simple — we care for our patients, our communities and each other — and this award is a reflection that we are serving our purpose,” said DeLeigh Haley, UT Health Jacksonville CEO. “By strengthening our rural clinics, we’re ensuring families have access to high-quality care without having to leave the community.”
About UT Health East Texas
UT Health East Texas provides care to thousands of patients each year through an extensive regional network that includes nine hospitals, more than 90 clinics, the Olympic Plaza Tower, 13 regional rehabilitation facilities, two freestanding emergency centers, regional home health services, an EMS fleet of more than 65 ambulances and four helicopters, and a comprehensive eight-trauma center care network, including the region’s only Level 1 trauma facility.
As a partner with The University of Texas System, UT Health East Texas is uniquely positioned to provide patients with access to leading-edge research and clinical therapies while training and educating the next generation of physicians and other health professionals. The nationally recognized UT System also includes The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, as well as three other major university medical centers located throughout the state.