Meet Covenant Health Roane Surgeon, Dr. Dana Lindsay

With more than three decades in medicine, Covenant Health Roane’s Dana Lindsay, MD, brings expertise and compassion to every patient. When someone needs surgery, they want a physician who listens and cares. That’s exactly what they find when they meet Dr. Lindsay. “I really enjoy the connection with people,” Dr. Lindsay said. “I like seeing patients get back to their lives after they’ve had an issue.” 

Building Her Career in Surgery 

Dr. Lindsay graduated from medical school at the University of Chicago in 1992. Early in her training, she discovered that surgery was where she belonged. She spent over 28 years practicing as a general surgeon in the Midwest before moving to East Tennessee. “In surgery, you accomplish something,” she said. “You see the results of your work. I was very quickly drawn to it.” 

Throughout her career, Dr. Lindsay cared for patients with a wide range of needs, from gallbladder and hernia procedures to breast care and colon surgery. She has also led in advancements in minimally invasive approaches in her field. 

Now at Covenant Health Roane, Dr. Lindsay is focused on providing high-quality, patient‑centered surgical care. 

Supporting Patients Beyond the Operating Room 

Dr. Lindsay’s care is shaped not only by her experience in the operating room, but also by her life outside of it as a mother. 

She raised two daughters while building her career, and today, both are following in her footsteps. One daughter is a surgeon, while the other is currently applying for neurosurgery training. “I’m incredibly proud of them,” Dr. Lindsay said. “You can be there for your family and be a doctor. My kids were part of my world, and that mattered.” 

Lindsay understands the pressures patients face beyond their medical concerns. She makes space for those conversations too, whether it’s work, family, fear, stress or something else. “Stress affects health,” she said. “I want patients to feel comfortable talking about everything that’s going on, not just one symptom.” 

Outside the operating room, Dr. Lindsay brings that same perspective into her own life. She makes a point to step away, stay active and reset, understanding firsthand how stress and balance shape overall health. Whether she’s motorcycling, hiking or spending time on the lake with her husband, those moments help her recharge and stay present for the patients who rely on her. 

That same energy and warmth show up in her care, helping patients feel at ease from their first visit through recovery. 

Care That Feels Personal 

Patients often describe Dr. Lindsay as approachable and easy to talk to. “I want patients to know they can ask questions,” she said. “I’m very approachable. It should feel like you’re having a conversation, not being rushed through an appointment.”  

Dr. Lindsay makes herself available to patients and care teams and believes clear communication leads to better outcomes. “Patients can feel lost or intimidated, especially when they see a surgeon,” she said. “I want them to feel comfortable and confident.” 

Many women also appreciate having the option to receive breast care from a female surgeon. “I think a lot of women want to go to women for breast cases,” Dr. Lindsay said. “I’m glad to offer that choice here.” 

Why Covenant Health Roane 

Moving to East Tennessee felt like coming home for Dr. Lindsay. She already had strong ties to the area, and she was drawn to Covenant Health’s mission and culture. “The hospital is clean, well run and very welcoming,” she said. “Covenant Health is a well-oiled machine.” 

She’s especially impressed by Covenant Health’s focus on teamwork and community. “The leadership works well with physicians,” Dr. Lindsay said. “They listen to each other. That’s important for patients and for providers.”  

Schedule Your Care Close to Home 

If you need surgical care, Dr. Lindsay is now seeing patients at Covenant Health Roane. Schedule an appointment today or explore more expert Covenant Health providers near you.