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Doctors break ground on new clinic
º Healthstar family practice groups merge in Dandridge
Dr. Dewayne Darby (left) and other staff members at Jefferson Family Physicians turned over the first shovels of earth Tuesday to begin construction of their new clinic on West Price Road in Dandridge. With Darby are (from left) Dr. David McNabney, Dr. Rual Swanson, Dr. Donna Dillard, Dr. Nancy Witherspoon, Dr. Regina Fields, Nurse Practitioner Emily Clark, Dr. Denise Abel, and Dr. Laura Purdom. (Staff Photo - Steve Marion)

Doctors break ground on new clinic

Doctors from the Jefferson Family Physicians group took off their stethoscopes and picked up gold shovels Tuesday afternoon to break ground on a new 18,000 square foot clinic in Dandridge.

The new location, expected to open late this year, combines three family practice offices in the Healthstar network. It represents a new future for the clinic opened 28 years ago by Jefferson City native Dr. Dewayne Darby.

“This new facility — and an outstanding staff — will help us continue to provide care for local residents for many years to come,” said Darby.

The groundbreaking at the site on West Price Road (near Highway 92) was hosted by the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce. Officials from the chamber, local cities, and the county attended.

“Construction of this clinic represents a major step forward for our county,” said County Mayor Alan Palmieri. “We wish them continued success in the years to come.”

Dandridge Town Administrator Bryan McCarter added that the new clinic is an important part of economic development on the north side of town.

The clinic will occupy a portion of a 61-acre tract being developed by Dumplin Creek Enterprises. The land already includes a condominium development.

Duane Slone of Dumplin Creek said the medical facility fits well with his company’s development plan, designed to accommodate the needs of an aging population. He was accompanied at the groundbreaking by his wife Gretchen, who is vice president of Dumplin Creek Enterprises.

Physicians who will practice at the new clinic include Darby, Dr. David McNabney, Dr. Rual Swanson, Dr. Donna Dillard, Dr. Nancy Witherspoon, Dr. Regina Fields, and Dr. Laura Purdom. Physician Assistant Denise Abel and Nurse Practitioner Emily Clark will also be on the staff.

Chamber President Don Cason welcomed participants to the groundbreaking. He was joined by Don Lee of Healthstar, as well as members of the Chamber staff and representatives of the Towns of White Pine and Dandridge.

Construction is slated to begin next week with a completion date in October or November.
By Steve Marion Standard Banner Staff Writer Thursday, April 11, 2013