Healthcare in East Tennessee: A Guide for Newcomers
East Tennessee is known not just for its mountains and schools, but for its robust healthcare networks. For families moving here, knowing they are near a Level I Trauma Center or a dedicated children's hospital is a major selling point.
In East Tennessee, healthcare is more than just a service; it’s a major regional industry. Whether you are looking for world-class specialized care in Knoxville or a trusted community hospital in the foothills, our region is equipped to care for your family at every stage of life.
Major Regional Healthcare Systems
Most local hospitals and clinics are part of three primary networks. Each offers a Find a Doctor tool on their website to help you find a primary care physician (PCP) near your new home.
- Covenant Health: The region’s largest employer, with a massive network of hospitals including Fort Sanders Regional (Knoxville), LeConte Medical Center (Sevierville), and Parkwest Medical Center (West Knoxville).
- Tennova Healthcare: A large network featuring Turkey Creek Medical Center (Farragut), North Knoxville Medical Center, and Newport Medical Center.
- UT Medical Center: The region’s only Academic Medical Center and Level I Trauma Center, located just across the river from downtown Knoxville.
Hospital Guide by County
When choosing a neighborhood, its helpful to know your closest 24/7 Emergency Room
| Knox | UT Medical Center, Fort Sanders, Parkwest | High-level specialty care, heart health, and neurology |
| Blount | Blount Memorial Hospital (Maryville) | Comprehensive community hospital with a strong cancer center |
| Sevier | LeConte Medical Center (Sevierville) | Award-winning patient safety and modern facilities |
| Hamblen | Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System | Only hospital in the 10-county Lakeway Area with a Heart Center |
| Cocke | Newport Medical Center | Recognized for excellence in perinatal (newborn) care |
| Washington | Johnson City Medical Center | Major hub for the Tri-Cities area and a Level I Trauma Center |
Specialized Pediatric Care
For families with children, East Tennessee offers specialized care that is often ranked among the best in the nation.
- East Tennessee Children’s Hospital (Knoxville): A private, independent, not- for-profit pediatric medical center. They have urgent care centers in West
Knoxville and Blount County (Alcoa) for after-hours needs. - Niswonger Children’s Hospital (Johnson City): Serves the Tri-Cities and surrounding rural counties with specialized pediatric wings and a St. Jude
Affiliate clinic.
Urgent Care & Quick Clinics
For non-emergencies, you'll find a wide variety of walk-in clinics that are often open late and on weekends:
- Summit Medical Group: The region’s largest primary care organization with
numerous & Express Clinics - Cherokee Health Systems: Offers integrated primary care and behavioral health services across many East TN counties.
- AFC Urgent Care & Fast Pace Health: Common in Sevier and Hamblen counties for quick, affordable visits.
Realtor Tip: The "Health-Relocation" Connection
If you or a family member has a specific medical condition, I can help you find a home within a 15-20 minute drive of the specialized clinics you need (such as the Thompson Cancer Response Center or Knoxville Orthopedic Clinic).
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