Dr. Joseph Kretschmar

2025 Servant's Heart Award Winner

Since 2010, Dr. Joseph “Joe” Kretschmar, has made it his mission to provide exceptional gastrointestinal care to the people of Greeneville, Tennessee, and beyond. His tireless dedication is legendary.

He serves at Ballad Health Medical Associates Gastroenterology and Greeneville Community Hospital. As the only gastroenterology specialist in the area, he now routinely accepts transfers from hospitals throughout the region, often serving as the only provider outside of Johnson City Medical Center to perform complex, lifesaving interventions for patients with pancreatic and bile duct disorders, known as ERCP procedures – or gastrointestinal endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. This role carries an immense responsibility and often requires long hours as he provides urgent consults and performs the procedures – but he does so with grace and professionalism. 

Dr. Kretschmar’s ability to manage a high volume of these cases demonstrates exceptional skill, resilience and compassion. He offers hope to patients and families who might otherwise face significant delays in treatment. His willingness to accept transfers from across the region showcases his commitment to extending care beyond his immediate community, improving health outcomes for our region. 

Ballad Health’s Clinical Command Center frequently commends Dr. Kretschmar for his responsiveness and willingness to take any patients he thinks he can help. It is not uncommon for him to field calls at all hours or to interrupt family gatherings – even on holidays – to treat a patient in need. He has volunteered to obtain privileges at other hospitals beyond Greeneville Community Hospital, traveling after hours to perform procedures when coverage gaps emerged.

What truly sets Dr. Kretschmar apart, however, is his compassion and faith. Known affectionately as “Dr. K,” he listens intently to what his patients tell him and then gives them advice on not just what kind of medication they can take, but also about dietary changes that will help them feel better. He is never in a hurry with the patients.

He prays with every patient before a procedure – an act that brings comfort to anxious hearts and reflects his belief that healing extends beyond medicine. His kindness has touched not only patients, but also staff and families. In one instance, when no chaplain was available, Dr. Kretschmar sat with a grieving family, offering prayer and solace after the loss of their loved one.

Dr. Kretschmar elevates the entire healthcare system with his expertise, accessibility and his dedication to serve.