Caring for Sequatchie County: Parkridge Health's proposal to operate emergency room in Dunlap

Healthcare is personal. When a patient seeks care at a clinic, hospital or emergency room, they put their trust in the care team. At Parkridge Health System, we don’t take that trust lightly. Our goal is, and always has been, to do what’s best for the patients and the communities we serve.

Parkridge Health System operates more emergency rooms in the Chattanooga region than any other provider. We have spent decades expanding access so communities have healthcare closer to where they live and work. When we have previously opened ERs and other healthcare access points in places like Soddy Daisy and East Ridge, we have looked to hire qualified people who live in that community. We understand that the most compassionate care is often provided by a familiar face.

This facility has proudly served your community for many decades, and we are committed to honoring that important legacy while investing in your community’s future. In addition to bringing much-needed building enhancements, Parkridge Health is committed to bringing the same high-quality care to Sequatchie County that our health system is known for nationwide. This includes Parkridge Medical Center’s top 100 ranking by Fortune Magazine for seven years and numerous other clinical accolades recognizing our standards of care.

In addition to providing expert medical care, Parkridge Health System is a community contributor dedicated to promoting healthier tomorrows for the regions we serve. We proudly partner with local schools, non-profits and community support organizations to help strengthen communities and drive positive health outcomes.

We take pride in the care we deliver, and we know that communities take pride in caring for their own. Our proposal for Sequatchie County is built on trust, compassion and the future of Sequatchie County. Our goal is to work alongside community leaders, residents and the healthcare experts who currently live and work in Sequatchie County to provide excellent medical care. We want to invest in the current and future health of this community – providing expert care with a personalized touch.

Sincerely,
Chris Cosby,
President & CEO
Parkridge Health System

If you have questions about our proposal to provide excellent emergency medical care in Sequatchie County, please email Parkridge Health’s proposal to operate emergency room in Dunlap.

Details about Parkridge Health's Dunlap ER proposal

What will Parkridge Health provide to the taxpayers of Sequatchie County?

• An estimated $37,000 annually in sales and property tax will be paid to Sequatchie County.
• Up to $5 million will be spent to update the current facility and equipment.
• An estimated $156,000 in annual rent will be paid to the county (at the fair market rate).
• As tenant, Parkridge will be responsible for all interior and exterior maintenance expenses.

What if I have no insurance or am unable to pay?

• Parkridge Health provides ER care to anyone who walks through our doors, regardless of a patient’s insurance status or ability to pay.
• Our financial assistance policies cover patients up to 400% of the federal poverty level.
• Interest-free payment arrangements will be offered.
• We do not report unpaid patient balances to credit bureaus.
• Parkridge does not take bad debt accounts to court.

If Parkridge Health manages the ER, what will happen to the current ER employees and providers?

• All eligible current staff will be offered employment, subject to Parkridge’s standard pre-employment screening process.

Are Parkridge Health physicians board-certified?

• Parkridge requires all physicians who work in our ERs to be board-certified.
• Parkridge Health ER physicians are trained and equipped to provide care for any medical emergency to patients of all ages.

What are the plans for primary care for the community?

• We understand primary care is the foundation to health and well-being.
• Parkridge will work to ensure primary care services remain available at the Sequatchie County ER.

Will certain outpatient services like imaging and labs remain available?

• We will continue to provide imaging and lab services at the facility.

How will trauma and pediatric patients be transferred?

• Trauma patients will be stabilized and transported to the only trauma center in the region.
• If higher level services are needed, pediatric patients will be stabilized and transported to the area’s only children’s hospital.

Does Parkridge Health accept my insurance plan?

• Parkridge is in-network with all major insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Will this impact EMS services in Sequatchie County?

• We already have an established relationship with local EMS services.
• There will be no changes to EMS coverage or emergency air transport.

Did Parkridge Health close North Valley ER in 2010?

• There is misleading information online about this topic.
• North Valley ER, operated by Grandview Medical Center at the time it was closed, was owned by Capella Healthcare, of Little Rock, Arkansas.

What is Parkridge Health’s commitment to local education?

• As part of HCA Healthcare, Parkridge Health has a track record of investing in programs that promote future healthcare careers in our schools and communities.
• We would welcome any opportunity to come alongside local school programs and provide educational seminars, tours and other opportunities for students interested in healthcare careers.

How else will Parkridge Health support the community?

• Parkridge Health routinely sponsors and supports local non-profits and community organizations across the Chattanooga region.
• Our commitment to Sequatchie County would extend outside the walls of our facility as we look to be an integral part of the healthcare and business community in the region.