CHARLESTON — The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has approved a request from Roper St. Francis Healthcare (RSFH) to build a new hospital in Mount Pleasant.
“We’re thrilled to be able to move forward with plans for a new 85-bed hospital to better serve the healthcare needs of this vibrant and growing community,” said David L. Dunlap, president and chief executive officer for RSFH. He made the announcement March 24 at Mount Pleasant Town Hall with Mayor Harry M. Hallman.
“Since announcing plans one year ago this month, there has been a tremendous outpouring of support,” Dunlap said. “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank DHEC and recognize many individuals and organizations — from elected officials in local and state government to business and community leaders, physicians, and especially area residents and patients. This hospital would not be possible without you. Thanks to your support, this project is becoming a reality,” he said.
DHEC officials gave verbal approval for the project, but stipulated that construction not begin until March 2008, citing the need to phase in increased healthcare services to the East Cooper community.
Roper St. Francis officials say the next steps include the completion of detailed architectural drawings for the new hospital and a groundbreaking early next year. The 250,000-square-foot facility will be located on 78 acres of land at the intersection of Highway 17 North and Faison (Airport) Road in the Carolina Park Development. The site is adjacent to Wando High School in northern Mount Pleasant.
The new Roper St. Francis Mount Pleasant Hospital will include 85 inpatient beds, 24-hour emergency care, women’s services including labor and delivery suites, inpatient and outpatient surgery, intensive and critical care units, imaging, a laboratory and a pharmacy.
A not-for-profit healthcare organization, Roper St. Francis Healthcare is a 594-bed system comprised of 20 facilities in four counties. Member hospitals include Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital and Roper Hospital.