NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Bryan Terry, MD, R-Murfreesboro, has been appointed by House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, to serve as chairman of the House Health Committee for the 114th General Assembly which convened Jan. 14.
Terry’s professional career as an anesthesiologist and small business owner spans decades. He has dedicated his life to serving his community and working to improve policies for the benefit of all Tennesseans. In his personal life, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Cheryl, and two children, Brayden and Breeley.
“I have been honored to lead the House Health Committee for the last six years, and I am grateful to Speaker Sexton for continuing to trust my leadership,” Terry said. “There are important issues before us this session, and I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to improve the lives of all Tennesseans.”
The Health Committee mostly hears legislation relevant to three major topical areas: mental health, public health and human services. But it has also seen many other topics like adoption procedures and special assistance legislation for the elderly.
Terry has served as a member of the Health Committee in each of his terms since being elected to the House of Representatives in 2014. He has served as chairman since 2019.
“It’s an honor to have Dr. Bryan Terry continue his role as chairman of the full House Health committee,” Sexton said. “His leadership on healthcare policy, extensive medical expertise and dedication have been invaluable. I trust his guidance on achieving patient-centered healthcare in Tennessee.”
Terry looks to carry several key pieces of legislation during the 114th General Assembly including an update to the Tennessee Right to Try Act, which allows terminally ill patients access to medication trials if it may improve their condition. His proposed legislation would expedite the approval process for patients and allow for individualized treatments with the advancements of genetic testing.
He also plans to address the growing nationwide physician shortage and its impacts on Tennessee, as well as concerns about private companies potentially selling citizens’ genomic DNA to China and other foreign entities.
Along with his chairmanship, Terry will serve on the Insurance Committee, Calendar & Rules Committee, Health Subcommittee and Population Health Subcommittee.
Bryan Terry, MD, represents District 48 which includes the eastern half of Rutherford County. He can be reached at rep.bryan.terry@capitol.tn.gov or 615-741-2180.
