Wellmont Health System has announced its contract renewal with Bristol Motor Speedway and Bristol Dragway. Wellmont will serve as the exclusive medical provider for NASCAR, NHRA and monster truck races as well as test drives on the track. The health system is also expanding its role with a strong presence for the Sept. 10 Pilot Flying J Battle at Bristol football game at the speedway between the University of Tennessee and Virginia Tech. Plus, caregivers will be present for the concert headlined by Kenny Chesney the day before. The support continues a week later with Wellmont providing medical care for the Sept. 17 football game at the speedway between East Tennessee State University and Western Carolina University. The new contract, which continues a relationship that spans about 20 years, reflects the speedway’s growth into a multi-use sports and entertainment facility. Facilities at the speedway include five fan care centers and an infield care center, which treats drivers, crew members and NASCAR officials. Physicians who work in the infield care center must be board-certified in emergency medicine, and all other providers in that facility must have training in emergency care or critical care. The dragway has one care center for spectators and participants in NHRA races, and all medical providers must have the same training and certifications as those who work in the infield care center at the speedway. Dr. Woodard and Parks also work collaboratively with local emergency medical services agencies and WellmontOne Air Transport during all events to assist anyone with illnesses or injuries who might need to be taken to Bristol Regional. WellmontOne, which has been based at the speedway since 2010, can make a round trip from the speedway and dragway to the hospital in 10-15 minutes.(Bristol Herald Couier)(8-19-2016)
