Construction begins on Indian Path Community Hospital’s main entrance and lobby

The final phase of Indian Path Community Hospital’s $8 million renovation project has officially started with construction underway on the hospital’s main entrance and lobby. This project will complete the comprehensive updates to the hospital, which have already transformed the Barbara Humphreys Family Birth Center into a state-of-the-art facility.

During this phase, the hospital’s main entrance will be closed, and all visitors and patients will be rerouted to enter the hospital through the emergency department entrance. To assist with navigation, temporary barriers will mark construction areas, and clear wayfinding signage will be placed both outside and inside the building.

“This renovation is an important milestone for Indian Path Community Hospital, and we are thrilled to see the final phase of this ambitious project take shape,” said Dwight Owens, administrator and chief operating officer of Indian Path Community Hospital. “The new lobby, which will be named in honor of Eastman Credit Union, will provide a welcoming and modern environment for our patients and visitors, reflecting our commitment to exceptional care.”

Eastman Credit Union’s contribution of $1 million to Ballad Health Foundation in 2021 has been instrumental in supporting projects across Ballad Health’s Niswonger Children’s Network, which includes the Barbara Humphreys Family Birth Center. The Niswonger Children’s Network encompasses a comprehensive system of care for children in the Appalachian Highlands, emphasizing excellence and innovation in pediatric and maternal health services.

Phase I of the renovation project, completed in November 2023, transformed the interior of the Barbara Humphreys Family Birth Center. Updates included nine state-of-the-art labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum rooms; two triage rooms; a fully updated nursery; and a new nursing station. Phase 2 followed with additional updates to the remainder of the birth center, which were finalized in September 2024. These enhancements improved patient flow, creating a smoother and more comfortable birthing experience for families.

“The investments we’ve made in both the Family Birth Center and the new lobby demonstrate our commitment to advancing care for our patients and community,” said Rebecca Beck, CEO of Holston Valley Medical Center and Indian Path Community Hospital.

“This renovation project is not just about updating our facilities; it’s about creating an environment where patients feel valued, families feel supported and team members can continue providing the exceptional care our community deserves.”

Construction on the main entrance and lobby is projected to conclude in summer 2025.