Originally published in Livability —

Like a magnet, outstanding medical professionals are attracted to Williamson County, TN, for its vibrant communities, top-notch schools and proximity to Music City. Two physicians practicing at Williamson Health took time from their busy schedules to share why they chose to practice in Williamson County and call this beautiful area home.

Dr. Andy Russell • Chief Medical Officer, Williamson Health

Almost two decades ago, after finishing an emergency medicine residency at the University of Kentucky, Dr. Andy Russell and his wife, Nancy, moved to Williamson County and began his career in the Williamson Medical Center Emergency Department. Today, he is the chief medical officer at a hospital that is recognized by Newsweek as one of the World’s Best Hospitals.

“I love being a part of this community, getting to know my patients, seeing them out at a restaurant or at church or while strolling downtown,” Andy Russell says.

The Russells share their home with dogs Moose and Winnie and enjoy hiking and walking with them along Williamson County’s charming country roads.

“Moving to Franklin and working at Williamson Medical Center has been the best decision that Nancy and I have made,” Russell says. “I have appreciated working here and watching the hospital and emergency department grow. Ideally, I will retire from Williamson Health at some point and watch our future grandchildren grow up in Franklin.”

Dr. Amit Keswani • Interventional Cardiologist, Ascension Saint Thomas Heart Franklin at Williamson Medical Center

Dr. Amit N. Keswani, an interventional cardiologist at Ascension Saint Thomas Heart Franklin, had planned on becoming an engineer. After Keswani’s father suffered a heart attack, a nearby community hospital helped save his dad’s life. The event changed the trajectory of his future, helping him find his calling and purpose.

“I really find a lot of satisfaction helping patients going through a traumatic event because I’ve personally gone through that experience,” says Keswani, a graduate of St. George’s University School of Medicine.

Keswani recalls that when he, his wife, Nicole, a clinical pharmacist, and their two young boys visited Williamson County, the community just felt right.

Ascension Saint Thomas Heart Franklin provides cardiac services for residents of Franklin and surrounding communities, with a location on the Williamson Medical Center campus.

“Williamson Medical Center has a tradition of excellence in patient care,” Keswani says. “It is changing from being a smaller hospital to a world-class regional health care center.”