Novant Health outlines nearly $2 billion in coastal investments, announces Scotts Hill hospital opening
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Summary
Novant Health told commissioners it has invested close to $2 billion in the region since acquiring New Hanover Regional in 2021 and outlined facility, staffing and quality improvements. Officials announced the Scotts Hill Medical Center will open June 16, 2026, and described a proposed Heart & Vascular tower and increased physician recruitment.
Novant Health officials presented a five‑year update to the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners, saying the health system accelerated capital and staffing commitments after acquiring New Hanover Regional Medical Center in 2021.
"We are pleased and proud to present a five year update to the commission," Novant Health Coastal Region President Ernie Bobio said, outlining new clinics, a 108‑bed Neuroscience Institute and investments in clinic space. Bobio said Novant had committed nearly $2 billion in the first five years of its strategic capital pledge and has added about 180 physicians and advanced practice providers to the community, with plans to recruit another 50–60 per year.
Dr. Heather Davis, Novant's chief clinical officer for the Coastal region, highlighted improvements in clinical quality and safety measures. She cited reductions of 17%–49% in several hospital‑acquired infection measures since 2022 and noted the system’s recognition as a comprehensive stroke center and other specialty awards. "These are meaningful quality metrics to patients," Davis said.
Lori Whelan, president of New Hanover Regional Medical Center and regional acute care operations, said Novant is planning a major new capital project: an eight‑story Heart & Vascular tower as part of a 17th Street master facility plan, and a larger outpatient and specialty clinic footprint. Whelan announced the official opening date for the Scotts Hill Medical Center: June 16, 2026, saying its doubled emergency department will reduce wait times at the main 17th Street campus.
Commissioners asked about staffing and research partnerships. Bobio and Whelan cited collaborations with the UNC School of Medicine, UNCW and Cape Fear Community College to build clinical and training pipelines. Commissioners thanked Novant for the update and noted continued concerns and monitoring as projects move forward.
What happens next: Novant officials said they will return with future updates and that the Scotts Hill opening is scheduled for mid‑June 2026.