Caromont Health to Build Hospital Adjoining College
CaroMont Health has announced plans to invest more than $300 million in capital projects and facility improvements in Gaston County over the next five years. One of the most significant projects is the construction of a second hospital in Belmont, which will be located on Belmont Abbey Monastery land, adjoining the main campus of Belmont Abbey College.
“CaroMont Health has provided life-changing and life-saving medical care to the citizens of Gaston County for nearly 75 years,” said Chris Peek, President and Chief Executive Officer at CaroMont Health. “This investment is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to this community and the thousands of patients who trust us to care for them.”
While services are still being planned for CaroMont Regional Medical Center-Belmont, the facility is expected to offer an emergency department, inpatient units for patients requiring admission or observation, a labor and delivery unit, and a full complement of diagnostic services including laboratory and imaging. Pending CON approval, the hospital could open as early as 2023.
“Belmont Abbey College exemplifies the true spirit of our community – one of progress, integrity, excellence and virtue – and shares many of our core values,” said Peek. “Much like healthcare, education has the unique ability to enrich and support not only the recipient, but also all who surround them. A highly regarded institution like Belmont Abbey, focused on the advancement of others, strengthens our community. We are proud to be part of such a historic moment.”
CaroMont Health has selected a site near the crossing of Highway 273 and Interstate 85 to build the new hospital. Owned by Belmont Abbey, adjacent to our campus. The health system will enter into a long-term agreement to lease the land and support Belmont Abbey College’s future plans to establish health sciences programs. Specifically, CaroMont Health plans to support Belmont Abbey’s health sciences programs through clinical rotation opportunities.
“The monks of Belmont Abbey happily welcome this exciting opportunity for Belmont Abbey College and CaroMont Health to combine our shared values and cooperate in promoting the welfare of our Gaston County community and its future growth and prosperity,” said Abbot Placid Solari, O.S.B. “Bringing together two remarkable and storied institutions, the partnership between CaroMont Health, a leading healthcare provider, and Belmont Abbey College, a leading institution of higher education, is a game changer for the region and beyond. We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate with CaroMont Health to provide the highest levels of medical care and academic excellence,” said Dr. Bill Thierfelder, president of Belmont Abbey College.
