Ballad Health, Ahava Healthcare announce partnership, joint venture in operation of Ballad Health long-term care and assisted living facilities

Ballad Health and Ahava Healthcare announced today a new partnership and joint venture involving four Ballad Health long-term care and assisted living facilities. This new partnership will lead to Ahava Healthcare bringing their experience and focus on post-acute and long-term care operations to the Ballad Health family of long-term care facilities. The partnership will be effective Thursday, May 1, 2025.

The facilities included in the new joint-venture include:

• Francis Marion Manor, Marion, Virginia
• Wexford House, Kingsport, Tennessee
• Laughlin Healthcare Center, Greeneville, Tennessee
• Madison House (Assisted Living Facility), Kingsport, Tennessee

Ballad Health has long been recognized for its dedication to excellence in long-term care and assisted-living facilities. By partnering with Ahava Healthcare, a leader in skilled nursing facility (SNF) management, both organizations are working together to enhance resources and uphold the highest standards of care.

"This partnership is built on shared values and a mutual commitment to quality care," said Marvin Eichorn, chief administrative officer of Ballad Health. "We are confident that Ahava Healthcare brings an added level of expertise that will lead to the continued exceptional care our residents, families and communities have come to expect."

Ahava Healthcare will work closely with Ballad Health leadership and staff to introduce this new partnership to the residents and families served by these long-term care facilities. Because this is a partnership and joint venture, Ballad Health will continue to participate in governance. Approximately 200 current Ballad Health team members will be offered employment opportunities with Ahava Healthcare, receiving comparable pay with their years of service recognized in key areas such as paid time off accrual, short-term disability benefits and eligibility for family medical leave.

“We are honored to continue the legacy of excellence in long-term care that Ballad Health has built,” said Heather Lansaw, chief operating officer of Ahava Healthcare. “Our goal is to ensure our partnership expands resources and support for residents, families and team members. Ahava Healthcare and Ballad Health are committed to fostering a loving, welcoming and encouraging environment where residents can reach their highest potential in physical, emotional and social well-being.”

Ahava Healthcare is a skilled nursing facility management company with a strong presence in Tennessee and a focus on innovative, patient-centered solutions. This collaboration underscores both organizations’ dedication to improving healthcare outcomes and strengthening the communities they serve.

In the coming weeks, facility leadership will work with current residents and their families to provide additional details and address any questions.

For more information about Ahava Healthcare and this transition, please contact Paige Leech at marketing@ahavahc.com.