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In 1996, two healthcare systems – Fort Sanders Health System and MMC Healthcare System of Oak Ridge, consolidated to form Covenant Health. The two organizations, which had a combined legacy of more than 120 years of quality healthcare in East Tennessee, united with the strong belief that by working together, they could do more for their communities than they ever could alone.

Fifteen years later, in 2011, Covenant Health has enhanced the quality of life and health in East Tennessee by opening new hospitals, outpatient centers and clinics; making innovative technology and medical advances available in the region, and achieving national recognition for quality care and service excellence.

In addition to these achievements, Covenant Health brings even more to the communities it serves:

  • The health system is a not-for-profit organization, owned by our communities and governed by a voluntary Board of Directors. The Board is made up of leaders and physicians who represent the geographic areas served by our hospitals. Local people make decisions about policies, strategies, and investments, and monitor Covenant Health’s performance. 

  • As a not-for-profit health system, every dollar is reinvested for the benefit of the community, not profitability or shareholder interests. Covenant Health has invested its resources to build and expand our hospitals and bring new technologies to our region

  • Covenant Health is the largest private employer in the greater Knoxville area. With corporate headquarters located in Knoxville, Covenant Health’s staff of more than 10,000 includes healthcare professionals, physicians, technical specialists, skilled workers, managers, administrators, and executive leaders. These employees support our communities by purchasing goods and services, participating in local activities, and contributing volunteer time and leadership in local organizations.

  • Covenant Health partners with local and regional institutions of higher education, providing clinical practice settings for healthcare students and continuing education opportunities for employees. These partnerships encourage students to seek local employment once training is complete, and provide Covenant Health with skilled professionals to meet the healthcare demands of future generations.

  • Covenant Health was honored with a 2011 Pinnacle Business Award from the Knoxville Chamber. Covenant received the Impact Award, given to a business that displays commitment to making East Tennessee a better place to live through projects or programs that improve community conditions and make a significant contribution to our region.

Covenant Health is a community-owned health system with the stated mission "to serve the community by improving the quality of life through better health." Headquartered in Knoxville, Covenant Health includes seven acute care hospitals with more than 1,500 licensed beds, and numerous outpatient services and clinics.

The organization also includes behavioral health, cancer treatment, and rehabilitation services, along with home care, physician clinics, and community wellness programs. Covenant Health has more than 10,000 employees, affiliated physicians, and volunteers systemwide.


To order a printed copy of the 2011 Report to the Community, call (865) 541-4500.