Press Release below received from: GovernorAbbottPress@public.govdelivery.com Photos: Office of the Governor on 10-7-2026 Website: gov.texas.gov
JASPER, TX – Governor Greg Abbott today delivered remarks and participated in the ribbon cutting and dedication of the Dr. Ron A. McMurry, MD Mediplex. He was joined by Congressman Brian Babin, Representative Hillary Hickland, Jasper Mayor Clark McClane, Jasper Hospital District President Rodney Norsworthy, past president of the Texas Medical Association Ray Callas, and other state and local officials.
“Ron McMurry devoted his life to making sure that where a Texan lives does not determine the quality of care they receive,” said Governor Abbott. “Today, we are not only dedicating a building. We are honoring his legacy by making a promise that rural Texas will never be left behind.”
The MediPlex is a major investment in rural health care for the region. It includes dermatology, interventional pain management, and pediatric facilities, and an air rescue base for Air Evac Lifeteam, known locally as Air Rescue 3.
During his remarks, Governor Abbott honored Dr. McMurry, an eighth-generation Texan, United States Army combat veteran, and family physician who cared for Jasper for forty years. He noted Dr. McMurry’s service as director of the Jasper-Newton County Public Health District, where he expanded care for low-income Texans and pregnant women, and as president of the Jasper Hospital District.
The dedication builds on steps already taken for rural Texas. In December, Governor Abbott secured more than $1.4 billion in federal Rural Health Transformation Program funds for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, $281 million a year for five years and the largest award of any state. HHSC is allocating those funds to strengthen rural hospitals and clinics and support care close to home.
Additional photos will be provided here when available.