Grand Strand Medical Center has opened a new medical-surgical unit on its fifth floor of the south tower. The $14.5 million project adds over 24,000 square feet to the facility and increases its capacity with the addition of 32 new patient beds.

Opened in 1978, Grand Strand Medical Center has continually expanded alongside the fast-growing population of the Grand Strand, and thus, demand for local healthcare services. The hospital has been operating at capacity, and the new space is expected to improve patient experience by helping to ensure patients’ quick admission to an inpatient room.

“We’re thrilled to offer these improvements and additional capacity to the residents and visitors of the Grand Strand,” said Marsha Myers, chief operating officer of Grand Strand Health. “As the area’s only Level I Trauma Center, providing quality care is always going to be our number one priority; but we’re also listening to patients and making adjustments to improve their experience while they’re here. These new beds will help us fulfill our mission of meeting patients’ needs for quality healthcare in their own backyards. No travel required.”

The unit is fully-staffed with an expert care team of nurses, physicians, patient care techs and other providers expertly trained in utilizing a team approach in caring for their patients. Social workers, dieticians, pharmacists and a range of physical, occupational, speech and respiratory therapists assist in developing a plan of care to fit the individual needs of every patient.

“I was the first patient on this new, beautiful unit,” said Anita Hegler of Myrtle Beach, SC. “It was wonderful - just wonderful. Everything was so clean, and everyone was so nice to me. I didn’t even have to push the call button much since the nurses kept checking in on me. It was a great place to be if you have to be in the hospital.”