Exciting News for Bluffton Residents: A New Community Hospital is Coming!
Bluffton, get ready for some fantastic news! Residents in Beaufort and Jasper counties will soon have a brand-new option for healthcare, thanks to the recent announcement by Novant Health. They’re building a full-service community hospital right here in Bluffton, which is part of a bigger plan to create a health care hub in South Carolina’s beautiful Lowcountry region.
What’s Happening?
This exciting development comes on the heels of Novant Health’s acquisition of East Cooper Medical Center in Charleston, Hilton Head Hospital in Hilton Head, and Coastal Carolina Hospital in Hardeeville, along with 27 associated physician clinics back in February. The health system is committed to meeting the community’s holistic healthcare needs, ensuring that families can receive the care they need locally.
A Word from Novant Health
Jason Bernd, the president of Novant Health’s South Carolina region, expressed their dedication to community care: “Novant Health is committed to taking bold steps to create a healthier future for the communities we serve. This integrative approach will limit the needs for residents to travel outside the area for care by offering a medical hub that provides patients comprehensive health care services.” Sounds pretty reassuring, doesn’t it?
What to Expect from the Novant Health Bluffton Medical Center
The new hospital, known as Novant Health Bluffton Medical Center, is set to start with 50 beds, with plans to expand to 100 beds to accommodate the growing needs of our community. It’s a forward-thinking approach, and the hospital will include a range of services such as:
- Medical, surgical, and emergency services
- Trauma services
- Intensive care
- Labor and delivery
- Cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics
- Other medical specialties identified based on community needs
Plans are already underway to submit the necessary regulatory approval documents in the coming weeks. So, things are definitely moving forward!
Outpatient Campuses on the Horizon
But that’s not all! Novant Health is also gearing up to establish several outpatient campuses in Bluffton. These will include:
- A new free-standing emergency department
- Surgery centers
- Imaging services
- Urgent care
- Primary care and specialty care
This means even more options for residents seeking healthcare close to home.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
One of the most exciting aspects of this development is the potential job growth. Novant Health estimates the expansion will bring about 1,000 new jobs to the region over the next five years. That’s fantastic news not just for those seeking jobs in healthcare, but for the local economy as well.
Addressing Community Needs
Novant Health has recognized that many residents currently travel 30 minutes or more just to receive healthcare services that could easily be available locally. With these new campuses, healthcare access will significantly improve, making it easier for everyone in the area to get the care they need.
Plans for the Future
As Bluffton continues to attract families and retirees, Novant Health is making sure they’ll be ready. They plan to recruit at least 20 new primary care providers, alongside specialists, to ensure a well-rounded offering of outpatient care options.
Community Collaboration
In addition to enhancing healthcare services, Novant Health is dedicated to addressing the challenge of affordable housing in Beaufort and Jasper counties. Local leaders are collaborating to find solutions for this pressing issue, which impacts the community’s workforce and overall health.
Joel Taylor, CEO of Hilton Head Medical Center, emphasized this commitment: “We are committed to investing in our community and our people, from boosting housing opportunity to adding top-tier health care resources for the Lowcountry region.”
In Conclusion
As we look forward to these developments, it’s clear that the new Novant Health Bluffton Medical Center will not only enhance healthcare options for residents but will also create a positive ripple effect throughout our community. Exciting times are ahead for Bluffton!
