Hilton Head Island, South Carolina – Beaufort Memorial Hospital has commenced site work on a state-of-the-art Emergency & Urgent Care center located on the southern portion of Hilton Head Island.The new facility promises enhanced healthcare accessibility for both local residents and the island’s many visitors.
Addressing a Critical Need for Accessible Care
The center, strategically positioned along william Hilton Parkway, will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, staffed by a dedicated team of emergency-trained, board-certified physicians and nurses. Construction began last month following the demolition of a previous structure, with completion anticipated by 2026.
This new facility is designed to handle a wide range of medical situations. From life-threatening emergencies and serious injuries to less critical illnesses requiring immediate attention, the center aims to provide timely and effective care. patients needing extended hospitalization will be efficiently transferred to hospitals equipped with inpatient services.
Innovative Approach to patient Care and Billing
Beaufort Memorial’s innovative approach eliminates the need for appointments, providing constant access to both emergency and urgent care services. The billing structure is designed to be transparent, with patients charged only for the level of service they receive-a departure from traditional emergency room fees. This model is predicted to reduce wait times significantly.
On-site diagnostic tools and laboratory services will expedite assessments and treatment decisions. According to the american college of Emergency Physicians, wait times in emergency departments have increased by over 50% in the last decade, highlighting the need for option care options like this new facility.
Collaboration and Expansion of Healthcare Services
Russell Baxley, President and CEO of Beaufort Memorial, emphasized the hospital’s commitment to expanding healthcare services in southern Beaufort County. He described the center as a “huge milestone” representing a patient-centered approach to healthcare delivery on Hilton Head Island.
The project is the result of a strategic collaboration announced in January 2025 between Beaufort memorial, Intuitive Health, and the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Health. further extending this collaborative effort, Intuitive Health, alongside Beaufort Memorial Hospital, MUSC, and Tidelands Health, announced plans in June to establish multiple emergency and urgent care centers across South Carolina.
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Projected Completion | 2026 |
| Operating Hours | 24/7 |
| Partners | Beaufort Memorial, Intuitive Health, MUSC Health, Tidelands Health |
The Growing Demand for Urgent Care
The urgent care market has experienced substantial growth in recent years, driven by factors such as increasing healthcare costs, limited access to primary care physicians, and a desire for more convenient care options. According to a report by Grand View Research,the global urgent care center market was valued at USD 38.58 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4% from 2023 to 2030.
Did You Know? Urgent care centers typically treat conditions that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention, such as minor injuries, infections, and flu symptoms.
Pro Tip: Before visiting an urgent care center, its always a good idea to check if your insurance plan is accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions About the New Center
- What types of emergencies will the center handle? The center will handle a broad spectrum of medical issues, from life-threatening emergencies to less critical ailments.
- Will I need an appointment to receive care? No, the facility is designed to provide care without the need for appointments.
- How will billing work at the new center? Patients will be billed based on the level of service they receive.
- What is the timeline for the center’s completion? Construction began last month and is expected to be completed by 2026.
- Who are the partners involved in this project? Beaufort Memorial, Intuitive Health, and MUSC Health are collaborating on this initiative.
- What diagnostic services will be available on-site? On-site diagnostic equipment and laboratory services will be available for prompt assessment and treatment.
- How does this center differ from a traditional Emergency Room? The facility aims to offer shorter wait times and a more streamlined billing process compared to traditional emergency rooms.
What impact do you believe this new center will have on healthcare access for Hilton Head Island residents? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
