WakeMed proposes new emergency department for Fuquay Varina community

Wake County officials are gearing up for a significant expansion in local healthcare services, as WakeMed presented plans for a new emergency department during the Board of Commissioners meeting on April 7. The proposed facility, a 12-bed emergency department, aims to enhance access to urgent medical care for residents in the Fuquay Varina area.

WakeMed, a community hospital with a strong commitment to serving all patients regardless of their ability to pay, has been a staple in the region for 60 years. The new emergency department is part of a broader strategy to address the growing healthcare needs of the community, particularly as the hospital has seen a surge in patient visits—nearly 22,000 patients since the opening of their medical office building just a year ago.

The proposed HealthPlex will be located on the same campus as the existing medical office building on Highway 401. It is designed to treat and release approximately 90% of patients, with the capacity to handle around 20,000 visits annually by its third year of operation. The facility will also include essential services such as a CT scanner, x-ray, ultrasound, and a pharmacy.

During the meeting, WakeMed representatives highlighted the importance of local healthcare access, especially in emergencies. They noted that the new department would not only provide immediate care but also facilitate transfers to higher-level facilities when necessary. The proposal has received positive feedback, with no public opposition during the comment period.

The timeline for the project includes a public hearing with state officials scheduled for next week, followed by a review process that could take up to 150 days. If approved, construction could begin as early as 2026, with hopes to open the new facility by October 2027.

This expansion reflects WakeMed's ongoing commitment to meeting the healthcare needs of the community and ensuring that residents have convenient access to emergency services. As the proposal moves forward, local leaders and citizens alike are expressing enthusiasm for the enhanced healthcare options that will soon be available in Fuquay Varina.