Chattanooga, Tenn.-based Parkridge Health System, part of Nashville, Tenn.-based HCA Healthcare, has received approval from the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission to build a $17.4 million freestanding emergency room in Cleveland, Tenn.
The ER will comprise 11 treatment rooms, a laboratory, imaging services and support space, according to a LinkedIn post from the system.
The news comes amid pushback against HCA’s expansion in the region. Dalton, Ga.-based Vitruvian Health’s Bradley Medical Center in Cleveland launched an online petition in early January that urged residents to reject Parkridge’s freestanding ER.
“The Parkridge [freestanding emergency department] will offer no services not available at the Bradley ER,” the petition said. “Parkridge’s rates are substantially higher than Bradley’s. Approval of the Parkridge FSED means more travel, higher cost and less access to Bradley Medical Center’s connected care for Bradley County [Tenn.] residents.”
Chattanooga, Tenn.-based Erlanger Health and Bradley Medical Center also signed a letter of intent in mid-January to explore a strategic partnership to grow pediatric emergency services in both Bradley and Polk counties.
Parkridge plans to break ground “soon” on the new freestanding ER, and it said in its post it was grateful for “the support of more than 1,500 residents who submitted letters in favor” of the project.
“A big step forward for Cleveland, Tennessee,” HCA said in a LinkedIn repost of the news. “Parkridge Health System has received approval to build a new freestanding emergency room — and we’re grateful to the more than 1,500 residents who spoke up in support. We’re looking forward to expanding access to emergency care in the communities we serve.”
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
