April 2, 2025

Competing Hospitals Set to Transform Healthcare in Bluffton, SC

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News Summary

In Bluffton, SC, Novant Health and Beaufort Memorial are set to construct competing hospitals after receiving state approval. Novant plans a 50-bed facility, while Beaufort aims for a 28-bed hospital. This development promises to reshape healthcare access and economic growth in the rapidly growing community, providing crucial emergency care and creating job opportunities.

Competing Hospitals Set to Transform Healthcare Landscape in Bluffton, SC

In a groundbreaking development for healthcare in Bluffton, South Carolina, both Novant Health and Beaufort Memorial have successfully secured Certificates of Need from the state’s Department of Public Health, paving the way for the construction of competing hospitals in the area. This unprecedented move promises to reshape the healthcare dynamics in this rapidly growing community.

Novant Health’s Ambitious Plans

Novant Health has unveiled plans for an impressive 50-bed hospital anticipated to open by the year 2028. This colossal project, spanning 196,500 square feet, is projected to cost around $320 million. The new facility is expected to create approximately 500 jobs at its inception, with forecasts suggesting that the local job market could see an increase of up to 1,000 jobs in the next five years due to subsequent economic activity generated by the hospital.

Market president at Novant Health’s Hilton Head Market indicated that the new hospital would significantly enhance emergency care access for Bluffton residents. This development is particularly crucial as the region continues to grow, providing much-needed healthcare services close to home without the hassle of long-distance travel.

Beaufort Memorial’s Responsive Expansion

Not to be outdone, Beaufort Memorial aims to add to its Bluffton facility by constructing a 28-bed acute care hospital situated at the intersection of Buckwalter and Bluffton Parkways. The new facility will offer a comprehensive range of services, including inpatient and outpatient surgical procedures, to cater to the increasing healthcare demands of the local community.

The Beaufort Memorial site plans include a multi-level complex featuring emergency care services, trauma rooms, and operating rooms, as well as an outpatient capability—all designed to provide high-quality medical care to southern Beaufort County residents.

A History of Rivalry and Opposition

The ongoing rivalry between Novant Health and Beaufort Memorial dates back to 2018 when Beaufort Memorial first sought to establish a hospital in Bluffton. This initiative faced considerable opposition from Novant Health’s facilities—setting the stage for a contentious battle in Bluffton’s healthcare arena. At a public hearing in January 2025, Beaufort Memorial expressed concerns about Novant’s plans, citing issues related to financial feasibility and community need.

Comprehensive Investment in Bluffton’s Healthcare Future

Novant Health’s investment in Bluffton goes beyond the construction of its medical center. The healthcare provider is also planning additional facilities, including outpatient care facilities, freestanding emergency departments, surgery centers, urgent care clinics, and various clinics throughout Bluffton. This multi-faceted approach aims to meet the comprehensive healthcare needs of the growing population.

Community Involvement and Economic Growth

Furthermore, Novant Health is taking an active role in community initiatives. The organization has committed resources to support workforce housing initiatives in Bluffton and has contributed $1 million to local affordable housing efforts. This dedication to supporting the community underscores Novant’s commitment to not only providing healthcare but also enhancing the overall quality of life for Bluffton residents.

The Road Ahead for Bluffton

With site clearing for Beaufort Memorial’s new facility already underway as of early February 2025, a groundbreaking ceremony is expected in spring 2025. The simultaneous developments of these two hospitals mark a significant shift in healthcare access for the southern Beaufort County region, ensuring that residents will have access to top-quality medical care within their reach.

As Bluffton continues to grow, the establishment of these competing hospitals promises to elevate the standard of healthcare services while addressing the unique needs of a dynamic community eager for improvement and advancement.