MT. PLEASANT, S.C. - Novant Health broke ground today for its new Center for Women’s Health, a state-of-the-art medical facility set to open in summer 2026 next to East Cooper Medical Center.
Spanning 40,000 square feet, the new center will offer a full spectrum of women’s health services under one roof, including OB/GYN care, mammography, advanced breast diagnostics, breast and general surgery, and urogynecology.
“East Cooper has a proud legacy in women’s care, and we’re excited to expand that legacy with a center designed specifically with women in mind,” said Kirsten Royster, president of Novant Health’s Charleston region. “We know that too often, women are so busy caring for everyone around them that they can neglect their own health needs. That’s why this center’s services are focused on the unique needs of women and are coordinated in ways that are easy and convenient.”
East Cooper Medical Center has long served as a trusted destination for women and families, home to comprehensive OB/GYN services, a dedicated Breast Center and labor and delivery. The new Center for Women’s Health will enhance and expand upon that foundation, offering seamless, patient-centered care in a modern and welcoming environment.
Jennifer Wilson, chief operating officer for Novant Health’s South Carolina physician operations, emphasized the center’s role in responding to a fast-growing region. “From new neighborhoods to schools and businesses, the Mt. Pleasant and greater Charleston area is growing rapidly. With that growth comes the need for quicker, more convenient access to care,” Wilson said. “This new center is designed to meet that need.”
In addition to strengthening access to care, the project reflects Novant Health’s broader strategic vision for South Carolina. Across the state, the health system is investing in safety, innovation and patient experience, while engaging our care teams and strengthening community partnerships.
Several Novant Health physicians spoke at the event, offering firsthand perspectives on how the center will transform women’s care.
“This center is a sign of progress, a place where women at every stage of life can access compassionate, comprehensive care,” said Dr. Cary Fishburne, a urogynecologist who joined East Cooper Medical Center after working for Novant Health in North Carolina for many years. “It’s the kind of investment that reinforces why I’m proud to be part of this organization and this community.”
“As an OB/GYN, I know that women’s health can’t be confined to a single moment or diagnosis. It’s about the full picture, from annual wellness exams to fertility needs, support through pregnancy and identifying serious concerns like cancer before they become life-threatening,” said Dr. Kate White, OB/GYN. “This facility is about listening to women, respecting their voices and delivering care that is both expert and empathetic.”
Dr. Richard Carter, breast surgeon at East Cooper, highlighted the system’s commitment to innovation. “When I joined Novant Health last year, I hoped to bring contrast-enhanced mammography to the Lowcountry. Thanks to incredible support, it’s already available at my clinic. That spirit of action and excellence will define this new center.”
“Each stage of a woman’s life brings unique needs, and every woman deserves a care team that sees her, hears her and supports her,” said Dr. Toya Pound, OB/GYN. “This center will be a trusted place grounded in prevention, education and early detection.”
Following the program, women’s health team members were invited to take part in the ceremonial first dig, turning aubergine-colored sand to mark the beginning of construction.
“We’re proud to build a future where women don’t have to wait or wonder when it comes to their health,” said Sarah Tuley, president of East Cooper Medical Center. “This groundbreaking marks the next chapter in East Cooper’s commitment to advancing care. We can’t wait to welcome the community back when we open these doors in 2026.”
About Novant Health
Novant Health is an integrated network of more than 900 locations, including 19 hospitals, more than 750 physician clinics and urgent care centers, outpatient facilities, and imaging and pharmacy services. This network supports a seamless and personalized healthcare experience for communities in North Carolina and South Carolina. Novant Health is nationally recognized for our unwavering commitment to safety and the highest quality care, and we serve as a catalyst for healthcare transformation through clinical trials, leading-edge research, innovative care delivery models and robust virtual care networks. The expertise and empathy of our more than 40,000 team members along with more than 8,500 independent and employed clinicians are at the heart of Our Cause as industry leaders caring for communities across the Carolinas. In 2023, Novant Health provided more than $1.6 billion in community benefit, including financial assistance and services.
For more information, visit NovantHealth.org. Follow Novant Health on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.
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