Healthy Living in Bristol

Community Health Programs

Ballad Health focuses on improving healthcare access, wellness, and addressing social determinants through community screenings and education. The award-winning Bristol Regional Medical Center features the newly renovated Deborah H. Quillen Birthing Center, Level III trauma center, 24/7 emergency services, and pediatric ER. As the region’s first primary stroke center, Ballad provides round-the-clock neurological coverage. The Leonard Family Comprehensive Breast Center offers full breast care, and imaging services are available at two Bristol locations. Robotic-assisted surgery at Bristol Regional Medical Center reduces recovery time and enhances patient comfort.

In addition, Holston Medical Group and State of Franklin Healthcare Associates play a vital role in delivering comprehensive healthcare services across the region.

Mental Health & Well-Being

There are various resources for mental health support in Bristol, including Frontier Health, in-patient and out-patient counseling services, private practice therapists and mental health organizations that provide assistance to residents.

Farmers Market & Healthy Eating

Bristol has a weekly State Street Farmers Market, as well as many local CSAs which provide access to fresh, local produce, meat, and eggs. 

Parks & Recreation

Bristol is home to over 40 city parks, including Steele Creek Park and Sugar Hollow Park, which offer numerous opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, walking, biking, disc golf, exercise trails and sports fields. These parks encourage active lifestyles, which are key components of a healthy community.

Pickleball

Like the rest of the nation, Pickleball has quickly gained popularity in Bristol! Several of the local parks offer free courts where you can play first come, first serve, or you can reserve a court at Ida S. Jones Tennis Center or The Virginian (membership required). Many of these facilities offer private or group lessons, clinics, mixers, and host tournaments. 

Outdoor Recreation

The surrounding environment is ideal for outdoor recreation. With a temperate climate and mountains, lakes, and rivers, Bristol is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. South Holston Lake and River, the nearby Appalachian Trail, Virginia Creeper Trail and Mendota Trail, as well as countless parks and green spaces provide the backdrop for paddle boarding, swimming, kayaking, hiking, cycling, fishing, and much more.

Community Initiatives

The Bristol community supports the work of non-profit groups such as Appalachian Sustainable Development (ASD) and others to build a thriving regional food and agriculture system that creates healthy communities, respects the planet, and cultivates profitable opportunities for farmers and our community. Some schools and neighborhoods have started community gardens to teach children the importance of knowing where their food comes from.