Minimize disruption by sequencing a decant-first phasing plan, enforcing rigorous infection control barriers, coordinating early with authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ), and locking a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) that includes disruption clauses, all driven by patient-flow modeling and real-time operational dashboards. Why it matters In active hospitals, every hour of downtime has consequences: deferred procedures, strained staff, and risk to patient experience. Operating room closures can cost $6,000–$11,000 per room per hour in lost revenue and downstream throughput, according to AORN and MGMA-reported ranges. ASHE benchmarking shows that poorly planned phasing routinely adds 8–20% to schedule durations and 10–15% to project costs, primarily due to rework, shutdowns, and change orders. Protecting operations is therefore a core capital stewardship issue, not merely a construction concern. Growth markets like Nashville and broader Middle Tennessee compound the challenge: high demand, tight labor, and busy inspectors create approval bottlenecks. AHJ review cycles commonly span 6–12 weeks for staged life-safety plans, and major imaging equipment lead times now run 26–52 weeks. Minimizing disruption requires aligning clinical schedules, supply-chain realities, and regulatory milestones into one integrated phasing roadmap. How [...]