Bringing 24/7 Emergency Care Closer to Home in Fairview

Ascension Saint Thomas, in collaboration with Dickson Medical Associates (DMA), is expanding access to high-quality emergency care in the growing community of Fairview.

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Proposed rendering of the Ascension Saint Thomas Freestanding Emergency Department in Fairview, Tennessee, showing a one-story brick and stone building with a covered ambulance and patient drop-off entrance marked “Emergency.” The 11,345-square-foot facility will provide 24/7 emergency care with 10 treatment rooms, triage and trauma rooms, on-site imaging and laboratory services, and is planned for construction near Highway 96 and Audubon Cove beginning in 2026, pending state approval.

Ascension Saint Thomas, in collaboration with Dickson Medical Associates (DMA), is expanding access to high-quality emergency care in the growing community of Fairview. Pending state regulatory approval, a new freestanding emergency department will be built near the intersection of Fairview Boulevard and Audubon Cove, bringing 24/7 emergency care just minutes from home.

This $20.6 million investment reflects Ascension Saint Thomas’ commitment to expanding access to high-quality, compassionate care across Middle Tennessee. As Fairview’s population has grown by more than 36 percent since 2010, so does our dedication to ensure life-saving services are available when and where they’re needed most.

Location: 1866 Hwy 96, Fairview, TN 37062

Anticipated Construction Start: 2026

Facility Highlights

The Ascension Saint Thomas Freestanding Emergency Department in Fairview will offer the same level of care you would expect at a hospital-based ER, with a focus on fast, efficient, and compassionate treatment:

  • Open 24/7, 365 days a year
  • 11,345-square-foot facility
  • 10 treatment rooms
  • 2 triage rooms for quick evaluation of incoming patients
  • 1 trauma room equipped for serious or life-threatening emergencies
  • On-site CT, X-ray, and ultrasound imaging
  • Full-service laboratory
  • Staffed by experienced emergency physicians and clinical teams
  • Seamless connection to the Ascension Saint Thomas network for follow-up and specialty care
  • Located alongside Dickson Medical Associates-Fairview’s outpatient medical facility for coordinated care

Why a Freestanding Emergency Department?

In an emergency, every minute matters.

This facility brings expert care closer to residents of Fairview and surrounding communities, reducing the need to travel outside the area for critical services.

Freestanding EDs are fully licensed and equipped to treat heart attacks, strokes, trauma, broken bones, severe illness, and more. The only difference is location, they are built closer to the people who need them.

Strengthening Local Healthcare

The new emergency department is part of a coordinated medical campus that brings emergency and physician-led outpatient services together in one convenient location.

Dickson Medical Associates-Fairview will offer primary care, express care, behavioral health, and medical and surgical subspecialties. By co-locating outpatient services with 24/7 emergency care, patients benefit from greater coordination and continuity across their healthcare journey.

Once operational, the Fairview freestanding emergency department is expected to create approximately 35 new jobs in the community.

Ascension Saint Thomas and Dickson Medical Associates are committed to working closely with the City of Fairview to ensure thoughtful planning around site access and efficient traffic flow throughout each phase of the project.

Frequently asked questions

  • Who can visit this emergency department?
    Anyone experiencing a medical emergency can visit. No appointment needed. The facility will treat both adults and children.
  • Is this the same level of care as a hospital ER?

    Yes. This facility offers the same level of emergency care, with diagnostic imaging, labs, and trauma capabilities on site.

  • When should I go to urgent care versus this emergency department?

    Urgent care centers are best for minor illnesses and injuries, such as colds, flu symptoms, minor cuts, sprains, or ear infections.

    This emergency department should be used for serious or potentially life-threatening conditions, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, severe abdominal pain, broken bones, major injuries, or anytime you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency.

  • Will I be transferred if I need inpatient care?

    If hospital admission is needed, patients will be transferred safely and seamlessly to an appropriate facility within the Ascension Saint Thomas network.

  • When will it open?

    Ascension Saint Thomas has filed a Certificate of Need application with the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission. Upon approval, design and construction will move forward. Updates will be posted here as progress continues.

Community support

“Having our first emergency department in Fairview strengthens public safety, improves access to emergency care and reflects the kind of thoughtful growth our community values. We appreciate Ascension Saint Thomas and Dickson Medical Associates working collaboratively with the city to meet the needs of our residents.”
 – Lisa Anderson, Mayor of Fairview

“We are excited to partner with Ascension Saint Thomas on this expansion of healthcare access for Fairview. Co-locating our outpatient services with around-the-clock emergency care allows us to work more closely together and better support patients across their healthcare journey.”  
– Dr. Daniel Sherwood, family physician at Dickson Medical Associates-Fairview

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Together, nothing shall be impossible

Show your support for the proposed Ascension Saint Thomas FSED in the community of Fairview.

Support the Ascension Saint Thomas FSED in Fairview