Dr. Herb Ladley

2025 Servant's Heart Award Winner

Dr. Herbert Ladley is an unsung hero who quietly makes a big impact on everyone around him. The seasoned physician with Ballad Health’s CVA Heart Institute serves as chief medical officer for Wise, Dickenson and Lee counties in Virginia.

Humble, generous and always willing to help, he goes above and beyond to serve the communities in Kingsport and Wise County. His dedication to others often flies under the radar, but those who know him understand the incredible difference he makes. 

Dr. Ladley became a cardiologist because he was captivated by the heart’s anatomy and physiology. He joined the Heart Institute in 1984. To bring healthcare to more rural areas, he travels to Ballad Health CVA Heart Institute clinics in Pennington Gap and Norton, and he also sees patients at the Heart Center in Kingsport, which he helped establish in 1999.

Dr. Ladley loves the relationships he has built with his patients through the decades, and he always takes time to listen to his patients to understand how best to treat them.

One example of Dr. Ladley’s selflessness came when the Big Stone Gap Sheriff's Office was facing a shortage of body cameras for their officers. When he heard about the issue, he didn’t hesitate for a moment. He personally donated body cameras to the entire police department. It’s just one of many times he’s stepped up to make sure others have the tools they need to succeed and stay safe. 

He is a big supporter of the next generation of healthcare professionals, donating to the Mountain Empire Community College scholarship program to ensure local students have the chance to pursue careers in healthcare. 

Dr. Ladley is also highly respected as a mentor for others. As chief medical officer, he’s seen firsthand the struggles that physicians and residents go through. His authenticity and empathy make him someone people feel comfortable turning to when they need support and guidance.

Dr. Ladley’s dedication to education and his community is evident in everything he does. His kindness, generosity and willingness to be there for others make him a trusted figure throughout Ballad Health and the community.