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UnitedHealthcare and Ballad Health have finalized a new, multi-year agreement that provides people enrolled in UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage individual and Group Retiree plans continued network access to the health system.
Our relationship includes value-based measures as our organizations prioritize quality of care and overall patient experience for the people we mutually serve.
“Ballad Health is committed to working with insurers who share our commitment to a responsible partnership which ensures access to the doctors, hospitals and the continuum of care our seniors need,” said Alan Levine, chairman and chief executive officer of Ballad Health.
“People enrolled in UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans can continue to choose the physicians and hospitals they know and trust. Ballad Health looks forward to a renewed relationship with UnitedHealthcare, and to partnering in ways that serve our seniors best.”
“Our agreement with Ballad Health provides people continued long-term access to quality care,” said Suha Assi, UnitedHealthcare CEO, Tennessee and Virginia.
“We appreciate Ballad Health’s collaboration and shared commitment to reaching an outcome that benefits the people and communities we collectively serve.”
#BalladHealth
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Since about 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, Ballad Health has been experiencing a disruption affecting several of its software systems. The Ballad Health Information Technology team is actively working to understand the issue and safely restore all affected systems.
As of 11 a.m., Ballad Health activated its Corporate Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the response. Facilities and Ballad Health Medical Associates clinics are following established downtime procedures, and additional physicians and staff have been called in to support patient care. Facility teams are also working directly with patients whose care may be affected or interrupted by the disruption.
All Ballad Health emergency departments remain open. If you have a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department.
The safety and care of our patients remain our top priority. We will provide our next update at 4 p.m. ET.
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UPDATE 10/29/26 4:10 p.m.
Ballad Health has identified and resolved a disruption affecting several of its software systems at facilities and Ballad Health Medical Associates clinics.
Our Information Technology team has restored the software systems quickly and safely. Facility and Ballad Health Medical Associates teams will continue working directly with patients whose care may be affected or interrupted by the disruption.
We are grateful to our team members, who responded with patience and an unwavering focus on caring for patients throughout the downtime, and we thank our patients, families and community for their patience and understanding. Patients who need assistance rescheduling an appointment or service should call 833-8-BALLAD (225523).
Ballad Health’s Corporate Emergency Operations Center will remain activated to support the health system until 5 p.m.
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"NURSE: Empathy Heals" is out now on streaming platforms! 🎥
The experiences of nurses and the essential role of empathy in healthcare took center stage Oct. 21 at Nashville’s Belcourt Theatre during a special screening of “NURSE: Empathy Heals.”
The documentary shares nurses’ personal stories, offering a closer look at the emotional demands of caregiving and the people behind patient care.
The film is part of the Nurse Narratives Initiative, a collaboration led by @etsu that brings together StoryCollab, the ETSU College of Nursing, the Tennessee Center for Nursing Advancement and the ETSU Research Corporation, with support from Ballad Health.
Learn more at ow.ly/izz25100Iq0.
#BalladHealth
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Last night we celebrated the premiere of NURSE: Empathy Heals in Nashville with our host, Amanda Shires. The film powerfully explores nursing, empathy, and human connection.
Watch the film now on streaming platforms: nurse.etsu.edu/.
📷 Terry Wyatt via Getty Images
ALT A group of people, including singer Amanda Shires, stands in formal attire and smiles.
ALT A group of people stands in formal attire and smiles.
ALT Dr. Brian Noland, president of East Tennessee State University, speaks at a podium, with a poster of the movie Nurse: Empathy Heals propped up on his left.
ALT A group of four people in formal attire smiles for a group photo in front of a step-and-repeat backdrop.
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A future in healthcare starts with access, mentorship and hands-on learning.
@BloombergDotOrg recently highlighted the impact of Ballad Health Academy and the dedicated team members helping bring healthcare career education to life. Through real-world experiences and guidance from healthcare professionals like Allie Phelps, students are exploring career possibilities and discovering how they can make a difference in their communities.
#BalladHealth
What does it take to prepare the next generation of healthcare workers? 🩺
At Bloomberg Philanthropies-supported specialized healthcare high schools, students get an early start through hands-on learning and training that connects the classroom to real-world careers.
In Northeast Tennessee, @BalladHealth nurses like Allie Phelps are bringing that learning to life -- serving as educators and mentors who help young people build skills, explore career possibilities, and see a future for themselves in healthcare.
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Two years ago, Hurricane Helene brought devastating flooding to our region, forever changing lives and communities.
Since that day, friends, neighbors and communities have rallied together to support one another – a true testament to the resilience of Appalachia.
Our team members and volunteers have continued to provide care through extraordinary challenges, including at the advanced urgent care in Erwin, which remains open to serve patients daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Today, as we reflect on the resilience that carried our region forward, we are also looking ahead with hope.
In August, we broke ground on the new Unicoi County Hospital, a direct replacement for the previous facility. This milestone represents more than a new building – it reflects a promise kept to the people of Unicoi County and our commitment to restoring inpatient care close to home.
As we mark this anniversary, we remain grateful for the strength of our communities and look forward to building what's next in rural healthcare.
#BalladHealth
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We're proud to partner with @ItsBristolBaby to help keep race weekend safe for fans, drivers and crews. Thank you to our incredible team members who make this possible.
#BalldHealth #BalladProud
As we gear up for race weekend, we’re proud to recognize the hardworking healthcare
teams who help make it possible.
As the official healthcare and trauma provider for Bristol Motor Speedway since 2019,
@BalladHealth’s expert teams are prepared to provide emergency care and medical
support to guests and participants throughout BMS events.
Together with EMS and other first responder partners, Ballad Health teams work behind the
scenes to help support the health and well-being of everyone who comes to the track.
Learn more at balladhealth.org.
#BalladHealth
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Today, we remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001 and honor those who were forever changed by the events of that day.
We are grateful for the first responders, healthcare workers and citizens who stepped forward to help those in need. Their courage and compassion remind us of the importance of serving and caring for our communities.
Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
#BalladHealth
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Ballad Health retweeted
Knowing the warning signs of sepsis could save your life.
.@BalladHealth reminds us that sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the
body's response to an infection causes harm to its own tissues and organs. Acting fast can
make all the difference.
When it comes to sepsis, it’s a race against TIME:
Temperature: higher or lower than normal
Infection: signs and symptoms of an infection
Mental decline: confused, sleepy or difficult to rouse
Extremely ill: severe pain, discomfort or shortness of breath
Listen to your body, know the warning signs and seek immediate medical care when
something doesn’t feel right.
Learn more about sepsis at balladhealth.org/sepsis.
#SepsisAwarenessMonth #BalladHealth
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Every day, our team members make a difference in the lives of the people we serve. 🤝
That commitment doesn’t stop when the workday ends or when a holiday arrives. Across Ballad Health, team members show up around the clock to deliver the best possible care — bringing knowledge and compassion to their work.
Thank you for all you do!
#BalladHealth #LaborDay
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Ballad Health retweeted
At 104 years old, Mervin is a World War II veteran, D-Day survivor and heart patient who
continues to inspire us with his strength and resilience.
Mervin served in the Navy from 1942-45. His ship, the USS Quincy, took President
Roosevelt to the Yalta Conference, where the Allies met to determine Germany’s future
after WWII and where the United Nations was created.
During the war, Mervin went ashore in France at night with another American sailor and
three French men to report German gun emplacements. By morning, their ship was gone,
beginning a three-month journey that eventually took him back to his ship in Boston.
Decades later, Mervin faced another challenge. At 98, Mervin underwent a life-changing
heart valve replacement at Ballad Health CVA Heart Institute. Having overcome
extraordinary circumstances throughout his life, Mervin placed his trust in the physicians
and care team. Their expertise gave him and his family confidence every step of the way as
he underwent the procedure.
“I chose to trust God and my doctors,” Mervin says.
Choosing Ballad Health CVA Heart Institute improved Mervin’s heart health and gave him
the freedom to enjoy the country he so faithfully served.
Learn more about heart care at balladhealth.org/cardiology.
Please join us in thanking Mervin for his service and celebrating his remarkable journey.
@BalladHealth | #Veteran #BalladHealth #BalladHealthCVAHeartInstitute
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Ballad Health is deeply saddened by the tragic incident involving Milligan University cyclists who were struck by a vehicle in the Hampton area of Carter County this morning. Our prayers are with the victims, their families and everyone affected by this devastating event.
The Carter County Sheriff's Department has confirmed that two people died at the scene, and others are being treated for injuries. At least one person is being transported by air to Johnson City Medical Center.
Trauma surgeons are at Johnson City Medical Center, and our teams are prepared to respond.
We are working closely with law enforcement and emergency response partners and will provide additional information as it becomes available.
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Update, 8/19/26, 6:40 p.m.
Ballad Health continues to care for patients following Wednesday morning’s tragic incident involving cyclists from Milligan University who were struck by a vehicle. Our prayers remain with the victims, their families and everyone involved.
As of 5:30 p.m., Ballad Health has cared for seven patients related to the incident. One patient was evaluated and discharged, while six patients remain hospitalized at Johnson City Medical Center.
Two patients are in stable condition and receiving care in the medical-surgical unit. Four patients are being treated in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit, where they require monitoring and specialized care for serious injuries.
Chaplains and behavioral health specialists are on-site at Johnson City Medical Center to provide support to patients, families and team members. The Woodridge Walk-In Crisis Center is also available to provide support and additional resources to anyone who feels they need it.
Families seeking information related to patients involved in the accident should call Johnson City Medical Center at 423-431-6111.
Incidents involving multiple trauma patients can create an immediate need for blood products. Community blood donations help ensure lifesaving blood is available when patients need it most, both during emergencies and for ongoing medical care.
As the region's provider of blood and blood products, Ballad Health Marsh Regional Blood Center is encouraging donations. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged.
To schedule an appointment at one of the three donation centers, please use the numbers listed below.
•Kingsport: (423) 408-7500
•Bristol: (423) 652-0014
•Johnson City: (423) 282-7090
Visit marshblood.com/donation-cent… for hours and locations.
Ballad Health will continue to provide additional information as it becomes available.
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Update, 8/23/26, 5:30 p.m.
As of 5:15 p.m., three patients remain hospitalized at Johnson City Medical Center and are in stable condition on medical-surgical units. The patients continue to recover, and our teams remain focused on providing the care and support they need throughout their healing process.
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Yesterday, we celebrated another significant step towards restoring inpatient care to Unicoi County. Nearly two years after Hurricane Helene destroyed the previous hospital, community members came together to celebrate the start of construction on the new facility.
The new, $44 million campus will feature 10 inpatient beds, a 10-bed emergency department, diagnostic imaging, and several outpatient services tailored to the community's needs. Construction is expected to be completed in 2028.
"This major milestone reflects what can be accomplished when people work together to keep a promise and build a healthier future for generations to come,” said Alan Levine, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ballad Health.
We are grateful to the community, elected officials and team members whose support has helped make this project possible.
Read more about what's coming next for Unicoi County Hospital at balladhealth.org/news/keepin….
#BalladHealth
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A major milestone for the future of health care in Unicoi County! 🌟
With the property that will become the new Unicoi County Hospital officially acquired, we are taking an important step toward restoring inpatient care for the community.
Join us for the groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, August 19, at 10 a.m. on Zane Whitson Drive, behind the Walmart Supercenter in Unicoi, TN.
A community picnic will follow the ceremony from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Community members, local leaders and project partners are invited to help celebrate this important milestone for Unicoi County.
Registration is open now through August 18, 2026.
Register and learn more at ow.ly/CyZ050ZAvt2
#BalladHealth
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Ballad Health retweeted
Goodwill Industries of Tenneva, alongside Ballad Health, Johnson City Schools, and Tennessee Vocational Rehabilitation, welcomes four Johnson City High School students: Danni, Elijah, Haven, and Abram: to the 2026–2027 Project SEARCH cohort. 💙 #ProjectSEARCH
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