Wellstar Health System has its sights set on expansion with a proposed 230-bed hospital in Acworth, aiming to meet the burgeoning health care needs of a rapidly growing community. In a move that underscores their commitment to addressing the medical demands of the region, Wellstar plans to invest $1 billion into this facility, which would stretch across 675,000-square feet and feature 70 emergency room bays and 8 operating rooms. The new hospital, to be named Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center at Acworth, will be situated conveniently across from an existing Wellstar health park, which holds the record as its busiest. As reported by FOX 5 Atlanta, the health system filed a letter of intent for the project, starting their journey to acquire a certificate of need from the state's Department of Community Health.
While the new facility would alleviate strain on the much-occupied Kennestone Regional Medical Center in Marietta, which operates at a staggering 98.5% occupancy rate, it would also bring over 1,500 jobs to the local community. "Caring for the communities we serve is always our top priority when we look for opportunities to grow," Wellstar's president and CEO, Candice L. Saunders, emphasized in words obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta.
According to a report by 11Alive, Wellstar anticipates the construction of their new tower at Wellstar Kennestone next year, but the projection recognizes a continuing demand for more hospital beds in the region. "The area is growing so much that even when our new tower at Wellstar Kennestone opens next year, the region will need more hospital beds," Saunders was quoted, reinforcing the necessity of the proposed Acworth hospital.
The road to bringing the hospital from plans to reality involves a nuanced assessment by the Department of Community Health, which includes a review period of 120 days for Wellstar's certificate of need. During this time, the department will conduct various evaluations, which extend beyond the hospital's basic renderings and details, to consider its effects on health care costs and access. As reported by FOX 5 Atlanta, Sharon Mason, president and CEO of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, solidifies the community's endorsement, stating, "Wellstar has a proven history of delivering exceptional care with long-term benefits for Georgia families, and this new hospital will bring greater access to trusted, exceptional, quality care close to home."
