The Tennessee Hospital Association (THA) honored Sen. Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville) as a 2025 THA Hospital Hero for his dedication and work on behalf of hospitals in Tennessee.
THA Hospital Hero Awards recognize lawmakers who prioritize policy issues that contribute to the health and wellness of all Tennesseans through their support for hospitals. Sen. Briggs was presented with the 2025 award at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital (ETCH), with hospital and THA leadership in attendance.
“Senator Briggs has long served his Knoxville community, his state, and his country in so many exceptional ways throughout his career and continues to be a dedicated champion for hospitals and access to quality healthcare for Tennesseans,” said Wendy Long, M.D., THA president and CEO. “His efforts this year as both a sponsor for critical legislation and an ardent supporter of hospital priorities were key to the Association’s legislative success this year.”
In addition to his more than 30 years of military service and time as an elected official, Sen. Briggs practiced heart and lung surgery in the Knoxville community for decades, allowing him to provide a vital and unique perspective as a hospital-based physician. Sen. Briggs is continually at the forefront of policy and regulatory issues that impact Tennessee hospitals, including East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.
“ETCH is honored for Senator Briggs to be recognized as a 2025 Hospital Hero on our campus,” said East Tennessee Children’s Hospital’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Matt Schaefer. “His thoughtful leadership, clinical expertise, and statewide advocacy have been influential in shaping the future of pediatric healthcare here and across the state.”