Thomas F. Frist, Jr. may not be a country music star, but he’s certainly made his mark in Nashville. As a co-founding physician of HCA Healthcare, he’s left a lasting legacy in healthcare, and now, that legacy grows with the opening of the Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine. This 198,000-square-foot state-of-the-art medical school, the first in Nashville since 1876, is set to welcome its inaugural class this July, hand Lee Company is proud to have played a key role in bringing it to life.
The project, which began in April 2022, is a game-changer for medical education in the region. With six floors designed to function like a real hospital, it includes cutting-edge facilities such as immersive learning theaters, advanced simulation labs, and anatomy suites. It’s not just a building; it’s a place where the future of healthcare will be shaped.
Inside the College of Medicine
Here’s a closer look at what each floor of this impressive facility offers:
- Floor 1: Two learning theaters
- Floor 2: Two learning studios and the James and Lois Archer Admissions Suite for student affairs
- Floors 3 & 4: A 65,000-square-foot Center for Interprofessional Engagement and Simulation, complete with advanced labs and fully simulated hospital and apartment settings
- Floor 5: The Anatomy Suite with modern donor labs, wet labs, and a terrace overlooking Wedgewood Avenue, plus a medical student lounge
- Floor 6: Society rooms, or Learning Community Houses, designed for student support, wellness programming, and study spaces
Engineering Solutions on the Fly
Originally, the building didn’t include a cadaver lab, but this essential space was added later in the project. Creating the right environment for such a lab wasn’t easy – it required a dedicated air handler to ensure the space had specific air changes, along with variable air volumes and exhaust valves. Using a crane lift, Lee Company installed the air handler and even went a step further by installing stainless steel ductwork to prevent corrosion, ensuring the longevity of the equipment.
Additionally, several shell spaces were incorporated into the building, providing flexibility for the university to expand in the future.
Overcoming COVID Challenges
Even in 2024, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic were still being felt, especially when it came to equipment delays. To keep the project on schedule, Lee Company got creative. They installed temporary air handlers and ducts, allowing work like drywall, flooring, and painting to continue. Once the permanent air handlers finally arrived – eight of which were delayed—Lee Company wasted no time. They began installing pieces as they came in, ensuring the project stayed on track.
The Fab Shop Advantage
Lee Company’s fabrication shop played a vital role in the project’s success. By building ductwork and mechanical piping offsite, the team avoided potential risks associated with working alongside other trades in a shared space. This approach not only increased safety but also allowed for more efficient and cost-effective construction. The fab shop’s contributions ensured the project stayed ahead of schedule, even amid challenges.
A Commitment to Safety and Leadership
Throughout the project, safety remained a top priority. After one safety incident early on, Lee Company quickly adapted, making necessary adjustments to ensure the rest of the project proceeded smoothly and safely. The leadership on-site also played a crucial role, with the superintendent guiding the team to stay ahead of schedule despite tight deadlines and complex installations.
A Legacy for the Future
The Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine is more than just another construction project for Lee Company – it’s a legacy of excellence in both healthcare and education. The advanced simulation labs, anatomy suites, and modern learning environments within the building set a new standard for medical education facilities.
Lee Company’s involvement in this landmark project is a testament to their commitment to quality, innovation, and community. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, adapting to unexpected challenges, and maintaining a steadfast focus on safety, the team delivered a building that will serve generations of healthcare professionals to come.
Looking Ahead
As the Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine prepares to open its doors to students, Lee Company reflects on the significant role they played in this transformative project. With a strong foundation in innovation and a commitment to excellence, Lee Company is well-positioned for future projects that continue to build community and foster education.
