MUSC Health’s West Ashley Medical Pavilion has expanded its patient services, adding vascular, musculoskeletal and digestive health care and enhancing surgical and specialty care capabilities for patients.
The new services became available Dec. 10 and mark the third and final phase for a multiyear strategic renovation that combines comprehensive care, access and convenience for area residents.
“We’re shaping the future of care in West Ashley,” said Patrick Cawley, M.D., CEO of MUSC Health and executive vice president for Health Affairs, University. “This expansion transforms patient care and underscores our commitment to providing exceptional care closer to home, improving convenience and reducing the burden on downtown facilities.”
For the first time, outpatient cardiac and electrophysiology procedures are available at an MUSC Health ambulatory facility, with the introduction of a shared catheterization and electrophysiology laboratory. Patients no longer need to travel downtown for these procedures, a change that eases stress and enhances convenience, particularly with ample parking and easy access to the building.
“Having heart and vascular services available for patients who don’t have the medical need to be in a super-intensive environment downtown is a huge win for MUSC and for South Carolina,” said Greg Gischia, R.N., nurse manager for the new unit.
The number of operating rooms has been increased from two to five, nearly tripling capacity for orthopedic procedures, including total joint surgeries. Total wrist surgery also will be available. A third endoscopy suite has been added, which will boost capacity for gastrointestinal procedures by 50%.
Other expanded services include spine surgery, both orthopedic and neurosurgical; pain management; vascular and vein procedures; and 23-hour observation beds for extended recovery cases.
“By making major infrastructure upgrades, expanding pre- and post-operative areas, adding observation areas and bringing sterile processing on-site, we’re investing in the future of the patient experience,” Cawley said. “This ensures safer care, smoother flow and a better overall experience for patients and care teams.”
The latest expansion also has an upside for the local economy: Thirty-six new care team positions were created.
The buildout and the new services, located on the second floor of the pavilion, are the culmination of a renovation of the old Citadel Square Mall that began in 2017. Phase 1 was completed in 2019 and included clinic spaces. Phase 2, which got underway in July 2022 and was completed in December 2023, added diagnostic imaging equipment, clinical space for endocrinology and gastroenterology, a musculoskeletal clinic, a vascular interventional radiology lab and occupational and physical therapy services.
Wesley Stroupe, project manager for the expansion, said it aligns with MUSC’s long-term strategic plan. “The completion of the West Ashley Medical Pavilion supports MUSC Health’s goal to provide tertiary and quaternary care on MUSC’s downtown campus for our most acute patients while expanding access to care closer to where patients live. It also is driving innovation and health transformation by bringing new services to our patients.”
