Durham and Chapel Hill, N.C. – UNC Health and Duke Health, two globally recognized academic health systems, are joining forces to establish North Carolina’s first freestanding children’s hospital as part of a comprehensive children’s health system.
The new entity, NC Children’s, will be a private, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization. It will feature a 500-bed children’s hospital, an outpatient care center, and a behavioral health center dedicated to pediatric care. The initiative also includes a robust research and education component supported by the medical schools of both universities.
The state of North Carolina provided an initial $320 million investment in early 2024, which accelerated discussions between the institutions. Plans for the NC Children’s campus, to be located at an undetermined site in the Triangle area, have been in development for over a decade.
A Shared Vision for Pediatric Care
The partnership is aimed at enhancing access to specialized pediatric care, enabling families across the state to receive advanced treatments closer to home.
“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 Dr. Wesley Burks, CEO of UNC Health and dean of the UNC School of Medicine.
“Children are the heart of our future,” added Dr. Craig Albanese, CEO of Duke University Health System. “This collaboration reimagines how we deliver life-changing care to our most vulnerable patients, and we’re grateful for the support of our state’s legislature.”
Research, Education, and Expanded Clinical Programs
In addition to providing specialized care, NC Children’s will foster groundbreaking pediatric research and offer top-tier education and training for healthcare professionals.
“This dedicated children’s hospital will reflect our commitment to providing the best possible care for children—not only now but for generations to come,” said Dr. Mary E. Klotman, executive vice president for Health Affairs at Duke University.
The new organization will also serve as a destination for top pediatric subspecialists, researchers, and trainees, further expanding the clinical programs and research initiatives already underway at both institutions.
Timeline and Future Plans
Construction on the NC Children’s campus is set to begin by 2027, with completion anticipated in approximately six years.
“There is a great deal of mutual respect between our institutions, and we both want the same thing for the children of North Carolina – the best care, close to home,” said Burks.
This partnership marks a significant step in advancing pediatric healthcare in North Carolina, providing hope and innovation for future generations.
