Durham Reporter

UNC Health and Duke Health have announced a partnership to establish North Carolina's first standalone children's hospital. The two prominent academic health systems have filed articles of incorporation with the State of North Carolina to create NC Children’s, a private, tax-exempt organization. The project includes a 500-bed hospital, an outpatient care center, and a behavioral health center dedicated to pediatric care.

The collaboration aims to provide specialized pediatric services, allowing families in North Carolina to access complex care without leaving the state. “This is an unprecedented partnership between UNC Health and Duke Health, aimed at elevating the care that’s available for all children in North Carolina,” said Wesley Burks, CEO of UNC Health and dean of the UNC School of Medicine.

Craig Albanese, CEO of Duke University Health System, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “Children are the heart of our future, and families across North Carolina deserve access to the most comprehensive, highest quality care for their children.”

Mary E. Klotman from Duke University highlighted the project's commitment to advancing pediatric research and education: “It will foster groundbreaking pediatric research and first-class education and training for health care professionals.”

The new campus will be located in the Triangle area on over 100 acres. It will feature various facilities including a hospital with approximately 500 beds, an ambulatory surgical center, medical office building, and play areas. The site will also include translational research capabilities and infrastructure for mixed-use developments like hotels and dining.

Both institutions plan to break ground by 2027 with construction expected to take six years. The hospital is projected to open in the early 2030s.