Ballad Health, Niswonger Family invest millions to bring advanced cancer treatment to Greeneville Community Hospital

Greeneville Community Hospital’s cancer program will soon see significant advancements in radiation therapy, thanks to a generous $1 million gift from Scott Niswonger and a major capital investment by Ballad Health. In honor of Dr. John Boys, who serves as the hospital’s radiation oncologist, the Niswonger family’s donation will enhance the hospital’s oncology services and provide state-of-the-art equipment for local cancer patients.

In recognition of this remarkable contribution, Ballad Health will name the radiation cancer center at Greeneville Community Hospital the Niswonger Family Radiation Treatment Center. This investment, which includes supporting the addition of a TrueBeam linear accelerator and Ethos adaptive radiotherapy system to enhance radiation treatments, will help ensure high-quality cancer care in Greeneville.

“This is a monumental step forward for Greeneville Community Hospital,” said the hospital’s CEO, Eric Carroll. “Thanks to the Niswonger family, we can continue offering leading-edge cancer treatments close to home. Their generosity ensures that patients in Greene County and beyond receive the highest level of care.”

Dr. John Boys, whose work will be directly impacted by this gift, emphasized the transformative nature of the donation.

“This contribution will allow us to expand our capabilities and offer even more precise and effective treatments for our patients,” Dr. Boys said. “Having access to the latest radiation therapy technology means our community members won’t have to travel far for exceptional care. I’m deeply grateful to Scott and Nikki for their generosity and commitment to Greeneville. TrueBeam and Ethos allow faster treatment, better targeting and more precise access and tracking — all supporting better outcomes for our patients.”

This donation from the Niswonger family and capital commitment from Ballad Health, builds upon Ballad Health’s more than $100 million investment to expand and elevate cancer care across the region. In December, the health system announced a major expansion of Ballad Health Cancer Care in Johnson City, including additional exam rooms, physician offices and two chemotherapy wings with private rooms. Ballad Health’s partnership with Varian, a Siemens Healthineers company, is also bringing cutting-edge radiation oncology technology to the region, including eight TrueBeam linear accelerators and an Ethos adaptive radiotherapy system that leverages artificial intelligence to refine treatment plans.

“The Niswongers continued generosity adds to the already incredible services for children throughout the region by advancing cancer care across our region, which will benefit children and adults,” said Alan Levine, chairman and CEO of Ballad Health. “Their commitment fuels the momentum we’re building within Ballad Health Cancer Care, reinforcing our investment in cutting-edge technology, expert physicians and expanded services to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. For the Greeneville community, this investment will have a lasting impact.

“As the founding benefactors of Niswonger Children’s Hospital and relentless champions of Greeneville and our entire region, Scott Niswonger has invested time, wisdom and resources time and time again. As a long-time Ballad Health board member, Scott sees firsthand the importance of strong community partnership in the advancement of healthcare. The Niswongers exemplify servant-leadership to the degree that Ballad Health named its most prestigious award for team members, physicians and volunteers the Scott and Nikki Niswonger Servant’s Heart Award.”

Jack Simpson, president of Ballad Health Foundation, noted the power of philanthropy in advancing healthcare.

“Philanthropy plays a vital role in transforming patient care, and the Niswongers’ gift will be felt by generations to come,” Simpson said. “Their leadership and generosity set an example for others who want to make a difference in their communities.”

This latest contribution underscores Ballad Health’s commitment to strengthening cancer care throughout the Appalachian Highlands. The system’s ongoing investments in highly trained cancer specialists, robotic-assisted surgical technology, infusion center expansions and partnerships with industry leaders like Varian continue to enhance local oncology services, ensuring that patients receive advanced treatment without having to leave their communities.

“As a longtime resident of Greeneville, I believe in supporting the health and well-being of our community,” said Scott Niswonger. “It’s an honor to contribute to the hospital’s cancer program and recognize the incredible work of Dr. Boys, spanning over 30 years here in Greeneville. I hope this gift will not only enhance local cancer care but also inspire others to give, ensuring that world-class medical treatment remains accessible right here in Greene County.”