Parsons joins Cookeville Regional’s cardiothoracic team

Dr. Billy Parsons loves a challenge, and being a cardiothoracic surgeon is one big challenge.

Parsons is the newest cardiothoracic surgeon at Cookeville Regional Medical Center, joining Drs. Timothy Powell and Michelle Ellis.

“I don’t think people realize what a true gem they have here at Cookeville Regional Medical Center,” he said.

Parsons earned his bachelor’s degree in biology and chemistry, with a minor in English, from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. After spending some time in trade school and working construction, he then went on to attend the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine and earned his medical degree in 1989.

He completed residency in general surgery in 1994 and thoracic and cardiovascular surgery in 1996 and went to work in Texarkana, Texas. He spent 17 years there, and then moved to Corinth, Mississippi, where he practiced for eight years.

He then went to North Mississippi Medical Center where he practiced for two years before joining Cookeville Regional’s team.

Even though it was the busiest heart program in Mississippi and earned five star ratings, he felt he could do more.

“The breadth of services offered here is amazing,” he said. “I will eventually be able to do robotics, TAVRs, and Watchmen procedures.”

For now, he will be doing open heart, valve replacement and coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG).

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Parsons to the team,” said Paul Korth, Cookeville Regional CEO. “His expertise will be a huge asset to the cardiovascular surgery program.”

Parsons is excited to be here.

“I love the friendliness here,” he said. “Administration is welcoming and so is everyone else. I’m happy to be here.”

Cookeville Regional’s cardiothoracic surgeon office is at 406 N. Whitney Ave., suite 5, and can be reached by calling 931-783-4269.