NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Esther Helton-Haynes, R-East Ridge, has been named an inaugural Defender of Medicine by the Tennessee Medical Association’s (TMA) Political Action Committee (PAC). The recognition honors members of the General Assembly who have shown a commitment to creating a healthier Tennessee.

“As a nurse, my priority has always been to ensure the well-being of others,” Helton-Haynes said. “That remains my focus in the General Assembly and how I determine which legislation to support. I am honored to receive this recognition from the TMA PAC and look forward to continuing our efforts to improve public health in Tennessee.”

Helton-Haynes is among 11 members of the Tennessee House of Representatives who were named a Defender of Medicine by the committee. Five state senators were also honored. As chair of the House Insurance Subcommittee, Helton-Haynes has worked diligently to ensure patients and physicians are treated fairly on payer-related legislation. She supported multiple insurance reform bills this session and co-sponsored TMA’s recoupment reform legislation as well. The TMA PAC works to promote healthcare safety and quality for all Tennesseans and improve the non-clinical aspects of practicing medicine, according to its website.

A complete list of TMA PAC’s 2024 Defenders of Medicine can be found here.
State Rep. Esther Helton-Haynes represents District 30, which includes part of Hamilton County. She serves as chair of the Insurance Subcommittee and is also a member of the Health Committee, Insurance Committee, Local Government Committee, Elections and Campaign Finance Subcommittee, and the Population Health Subcommittee.