Harris Health Earns National Honors for Blood Pressure and Diabetes Care
By Francis Page Jr.
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November 9, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — In a city famous for its world-class medical institutions, Harris Health is once again proving that extraordinary healthcare isn’t measured solely by towering hospitals or cutting-edge technology. Sometimes, excellence begins with something as simple—and lifesaving—as checking your blood pressure.
And this time, Houston’s healthcare champion has struck gold. Twice!
As Harris Health celebrates its historic 60th anniversary, the public healthcare system has earned prestigious national recognition from the American Heart Association (AHA) for its outstanding commitment to managing high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes.
The accolades include the 2026 Target: BP Gold+ Achievement Award and the Target: Type 2 Diabetes Gold Achievement Award, recognizing evidence-based care that helps patients manage two of America’s most serious chronic health conditions.
Even more impressive, 16 Harris Health centers received recognition across both programs, demonstrating that exceptional healthcare extends well beyond hospital walls and directly into Houston’s neighborhoods. Gold Standards, Healthier Communities These honors aren’t simply ceremonial trophies. They represent measurable healthcare achievements.
To earn the prestigious Gold+ blood pressure designation, participating healthcare organizations must demonstrate blood pressure control among at least 70% of patients diagnosed with hypertension while following rigorous clinical measurement and treatment standards.
Across Harris Health’s community network, 13 centers earned Gold+ recognition for blood pressure management, while three received Silver+. For diabetes care, 13 earned Gold recognition and three achieved Participant status.
“We’re proud of our entire team at Harris Health for this tremendous achievement,” said Jennifer Small, AuD, senior vice president and CEO of Ambulatory Care Services.
“These honors reflect the dedication of our clinicians, nurses, pharmacy staff, population health professionals and everyone on our care teams.”
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Fighting the Silent Killer High blood pressure frequently develops without noticeable symptoms, making routine screenings, preventive medicine and consistent medical attention essential.
“High blood pressure is often called the silent killer because people may not know they have it,” explained Matasha Russell, MD, chief medical officer of Ambulatory Care Services.
“Both high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes can cause serious health problems, making ongoing care essential.”
For Houston families, particularly those facing financial barriers to healthcare, Harris Health’s mission carries extraordinary significance.
From Acres Home and Settegast to Baytown, Gulfgate and beyond, its community health centers provide a critical connection to preventive care, chronic disease management and healthier lives. Six Decades of Service, One Extraordinary Mission Established January 1, 1966, Harris Health has evolved into a cornerstone of Houston’s healthcare safety net, anchored by Ben Taub Hospital, Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital and an extensive neighborhood healthcare network.
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Its six-decade legacy represents more than medical milestones. It reflects generations of doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals committed to ensuring that quality care reaches communities throughout Harris County.
As a proud marketing partner of Harris Health, Houston Style Magazine proudly celebrates this national recognition and the dedicated professionals making healthier communities possible.
Because in Houston, healthcare excellence isn’t merely about winning gold.
It’s about giving every patient a fighting chance at a healthier tomorrow.
Learn more: HarrisHealth.org
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