COVID cases among majority of heart surgery team members at Ballad Health force changes

A COVID-19 outbreak among a majority of cardiovascular surgery team members has forced Ballad Health officials to move heart procedures to their surrounding properties.

The Ballad report said patients set for heart surgery will have their services rendered at either Bristol Regional or Holston Valley in Kingsport until staffing numbers improve at Johnson City.

Ballad’s statement said the changes were taken to protect the health of patients and staff.