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In its ongoing commitment to increase access to quality oncology and hematology services in the Appalachian Highlands, Ballad Health is investing in an expansion of Ballad Health Cancer Care – Johnson City. The project will enable the health system to offer high-quality cancer treatment and hematology services to more patients close to home.

The expansion will add exam rooms, physician offices, and two new chemotherapy wings featuring private rooms. The first phase is complete and includes 11 additional exam rooms, a dedicated work area for clinicians, an expanded in-house pharmacy, three new physician offices, and an expanded registration area.

“A cancer diagnosis can stop anyone in their tracks, but we want our patients to know that they’re not in this fight alone,” said Brad Price, senior vice president of Ballad Health’s market operations and service line integration. “It’s extremely important for us to ensure that patients can receive high-quality, leading-edge cancer care right at home in the Appalachian Highlands. These facility improvements are a very important investment, as they enable us to provide the high-quality care our patients battling cancer need and deserve.”

The $6.5 million expansion, part of a $260 million capital investment approved by the Ballad Health Board of Directors, will enhance and expand local cancer care. The next phase of construction will expand the existing infusion center, adding two chemotherapy wings that will include 32 infusion chairs and six private rooms to better meet the needs of patients receiving chemotherapy treatment.

“Ballad Health already has an incredible oncology team of care navigators, dietitians, nutritionists, and pharmacy team members who are dedicated to serving patients fighting cancer, and this investment will take our care to the next level,” said Dr. Alina Bhat, hematology and oncology specialist at Ballad Health. “We are able to make these investments because we have a dedicated team to help each patient fight their battle with cancer, so we’re very excited for the future this commitment will create.”

Ballad Health Cancer Care – Johnson City will continue offering advanced screening, genetic testing, and leading-edge cancer care as the building undergoes construction. The expansion will also allow for a smoother continuum of care for patients receiving cancer treatments, connecting them with a local team of surgeons and other clinicians to help them fight the disease.

Additionally, the facility offers access to care navigators—seasoned professionals who act as a bridge between patients and their medical care team. Care navigators help patients understand what to expect after a cancer diagnosis and provide guidance and information to help them make informed decisions about their care.

“Patients who are processing a cancer diagnosis are often overwhelmed, and they’re suddenly thrust into a world of new medical terminology and rigorous treatment schedules,” Dr. Bhat said. “Our care navigator program gives patients extra support through diagnosis and treatment so they can make informed decisions and be active in their care plan.

“It’s essential to ensure that patients feel well-supported and connected throughout their journey, especially when their journey is difficult.”

Ballad Health’s recent investments in cancer care include an unprecedented 10-year agreement with Varian, a Siemens Healthineers company. Announced in September, the partnership will bring hardware, digital solutions, software, and professional and clinical services for advanced oncology solutions into Ballad Health’s growing network of cancer care.

The partnership will provide eight TrueBeam linear accelerators, which offer highly precise treatment options, and an Ethos adaptive radiotherapy system, which uses artificial intelligence to help oncologists develop precise treatment plans for patients.

Additionally, Ballad Health’s continuing investment in robotic-assisted technology will benefit its network of cancer care. This includes enabling local surgeons to access areas of the lung where more than 70% of cancerous growths are typically found through the use of the Ion robotic-assisted surgery system. The system is currently available at Bristol Regional Medical Center, Holston Valley Medical Center, Johnson City Medical Center, and Johnston Memorial Hospital.

“When a patient receives a cancer diagnosis, we want them to understand that our team will be with them every step of the way,” Price said. “From diagnosis to treatment to recovery, our team is ready to help with the latest and greatest technology and with updated facilities to accommodate the special needs of our patients. We are grateful to be able to serve our patients and invest in the well-being of our region.”