January 24, 2025

Florence Breaks Ground on Major Mental Health Facility

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News Summary

Florence, South Carolina, is launching a significant healthcare initiative with the Jean and Hugh K. Leatherman Behavioral Care Pavilion. This $100 million project aims to address the pressing need for mental health services in the Pee Dee region. With collaboration from numerous health entities, the facility will feature various services, including crisis stabilization and telehealth, set to open in October 2025. The topping-out ceremony marks a milestone in construction, highlighting the commitment to enhancing mental health resources.

Florence Takes Bold Steps Toward Comprehensive Behavioral Health Solutions

A $100 Million Investment in Mental Health Services

Florence, South Carolina, is set to transform its mental health landscape with the groundbreaking of the Jean and Hugh K. Leatherman Behavioral Care Pavilion. This ambitious project, priced at an impressive $100 million, is emerging at a time when the region’s mental health resources are critically needed. Situated on East Cedar Street, the facility is on track to open its doors in October 2025.

A Collaborative Effort to Enhance Mental Health Resources

This state-of-the-art facility is not a standalone project; it is the result of significant collaboration among various stakeholders. Key players include the South Carolina Dept. of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS), the South Carolina Dept. of Mental Health (SCDMH), McLeod Health, the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC Health), Francis Marion University (FMU), and HopeHealth. Together, they are embarking on an initiative that aims to establish a new paradigm for behavioral health services in the state.

At the heart of this endeavor is the initiative to create a regional behavioral health hub. The Leatherman Pavilion is poised to be a game changer in addressing the urgently needed mental health services for residents in the Pee Dee region.

Expanded Services Designed for Community Needs

The range of services planned for the Leatherman Pavilion is expansive. It will include triage and crisis stabilization, telehealth services, and a mix of both outpatient and inpatient care. Anticipating the diverse needs of the community, the facility will feature a rapid access center designed for walk-in triage and assessment. Telepsychiatry services will round out its offerings.

Moreover, the facility will include 63 inpatient psychiatric beds, along with 16 adult and four adolescent crisis stabilization beds, addressing both adult and pediatric mental health needs effectively. Notably, the 23 existing psychiatric beds from the McLeod Behavioral Health Center in Darlington will be relocated to this advanced facility.

A Celebration of Progress with the Topping-Out Ceremony

Recently, a topping-out ceremony marked a significant milestone in the construction of the Leatherman Pavilion. This event celebrated the integration of the last beam into the structure, symbolizing continued commitment to improving mental health care in the area. Dignitaries, including the Governor of South Carolina, took part in commemorating this important occasion.

The site of the Leatherman Pavilion, currently recognized as the Cedar Tower Campus, is owned by MUSC, which underscores the collaboration inherent in the project. The investment reflects the ongoing efforts by the South Carolina General Assembly to prioritize mental health services and aligns with the long-term vision championed by Senator Hugh Leatherman over the years.

Innovative Model for Behavioral Health Services

The Leatherman Pavilion is touted as a first-of-its-kind collaborative pilot that is expected to set new standards for behavioral health services not just in Florence but across South Carolina. By consolidating various mental health services under one roof, the facility aims to improve access and remove barriers for individuals seeking help.

The urgent need for enhanced mental health resources in the Pee Dee region cannot be overstated. This new facility promises to be a vital resource for individuals and families grappling with mental health challenges. Access to care is set to expand dramatically, reflecting a community commitment to support those in need.

Conclusion: A Beacon for Mental Health Care

As construction progresses, the Jean and Hugh K. Leatherman Behavioral Care Pavilion stands as a beacon of hope for the future of mental health care in Florence and beyond. With its wide array of services and transformational vision, the pavilion is poised to become a cornerstone of wellness for many, enhancing the lives of countless individuals in search of care and ensuring that mental health resources are more accessible than ever before.