Starr Regional Medical Center Undergoes Major Expansion Project

Expanding access to interventional heart care

Starr Regional Medical Center (SRMC) announced today that a $5.4 million expansion of the hospital for a cardiac catheterization (cath) lab will begin construction Wednesday, June 29. The cardiac cath lab and launching of an interventional cardiology program at SRMC means greater access to life-saving heart care in McMinn County. It is estimated to be completed in early 2023.

“This is truly an exciting time for Starr Regional Medical Center, the community and the entire region we serve. This project ensures patients in McMinn County and the surrounding areas have greater access to timely cardiac interventions close to home. The cardiac cath lab demonstrates our commitment to expanding access to services and investing in new technology and capabilities to meet the needs of our growing community in efforts to enhance our mission of Making Communities Healthier,” said John McLain, Starr Regional Medical Center Chief Executive Officer. “We will keep the community informed of the project’s progress and we appreciate your patience during the construction process.”

SRMC has been working diligently to improve the cardiac services offered within the community. The providers and technology within the cardiac cath lab will be able to diagnose and provide treatment for heart blockages and other cardiac conditions without a commute. Starr Regional Medical Center will be the only facility within 30 miles of our campuses to offer these services, allowing more patients the ability to receive this important care closer to home.

Starr Regional is proud to be an accredited Chest Pain Center and is affiliated with Covenant Health and their cardiac providers. The accreditation, affiliation and new cardiac cath lab is a tremendous step forward in the fight against heart disease.

The 2,500 square foot addition will be located where the Outpatient Services entrance and parking area is currently. This location is close to the emergency department, ensuring convenient access to rapid evaluation for patients experiencing a cardiac event.

Beginning Wednesday, June 29, patients seeking outpatient services will be asked to enter the facility through the hospital’s main entrance as the Outpatient Services entrance will be closed during construction. We want to reassure our community members that while this entry point is closed, patients will continue to have access to our hospital and our services. For more information and updates on the construction progress, visit StarrRegional.com/cath-lab.