Spartanburg Regional unveils plans for new Union hospital

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Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System on Thursday unveiled plans for the new $55 million Union Medical Center replacement facility.

The combined replacement hospital and medical office building are designed to create a sustainable model for health care in Union County that centralizes physician practices, outpatient services and inpatient care, the health care system said in a news release. 

Located along Highway 176 across from Union Industrial Park and four miles from the current hospital, the plans call for a new three-story, 99,600-square-foot building. 

“Growing up in Union County, I know firsthand the essential role this hospital plays in supporting the health and wellness of families,” Dr. Natashia Jeter said in a news release. “Residents, community partners and health care providers could not be more excited for this investment in clinical services and renewed commitment to caring for this area.” 

Spartanburg Regional purchased 48 acres for the new medical facility in 2015 following the acquisition of then-Wallace Thomson Hospital, which was constructed in 1955. This new campus sits in the heart of Union County, central to the residential population and the business community. 

“Our new facility in Union County is designed for the future, anticipating the ever-evolving needs of patients and innovations in care,” Mark Aycock, chief operating officer of Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, said in the release. “A variety of services will be available on this campus, including inpatient and outpatient care, emergency services, physician offices and telehealth visits.” 

The hospital’s design includes large windows and open spaces with natural accents. Photographs of iconic Union County scenes will be featured, showcasing the hospital’s commitment to the community, the area, and its residents, the release said. Plans call for a chapel and healing garden.

Construction is scheduled to begin this spring, pending permit approval, the release said.

Medical services at the campus are to include emergency care, imaging, Gibbs Cancer Center infusion services, inpatient care, lab services, Bearden-Josey Center for Breast Health mammography services, outpatient services, pharmacy and primary care.

“Spartanburg Regional acquired the former Wallace Thomson Hospital to ensure that quality health care was not interrupted in Union,” Paul Newhouse, president of Union Medical Center, said in the release. “Today, the health care system announces an investment that will benefit generations to come by improving access to health services and wellness opportunities.”

• By Ashlie Puma