From Staff Reports 

GREENVILLE, S.C.  — Winston-Salem, N.C.-based Novant Health recently purchased more than 11 acres of land off Interstate 385 in Greenville, generating speculation that “another health care system could soon be coming to the Upstate,” Greenville-based television station WYFF (Channel 4) reported on Aug 1.

More specifically, WYFF noted that public records show that the nonprofit health system paid more than $17 million in May for the property on Patewood Drive.

Meanwhile, a Novant Health spokesperson asserted the following in a statement:

“Novant Health purchased 11.5 acres off Interstate 385, between the Haywood Road and Roper Mountain Road exits, to further our commitment to expand access to high-quality, affordable care. We look forward to working closely with local officials and community leaders to meet the unique needs of the upstate region and build a healthier future together.”

In a detail stirring speculation, WYFF added that “the (Novant) property is located across the street from campuses belonging to Prisma Health and Bon Secours St. Francis.

The TV station also noted that Novant Health “has so far not released any potential plans for the property.”

Meanwhile, the state Department of Health said it has not received a certificate of need from Novant Health for projects in the Greenville area.

A certificate of need is required to start building nursing homes, hospitals and home health agencies in South Carolina.

A City of Greenville spokesperson said the city has not been informed of any plans for the site, WYFF noted, adding that the spokesperson said “the land is zoned to allow for larger lots, more open space and larger buildings.”

A Bon Secours St. Francis spokesperson declined to comment regarding Novant Health’s purchase, WYFF stated.

Meanwhile, the state Department of Health said it has not received a certificate of need from Novant Health for projects in the Greenville area.

A certificate of need is required to start building nursing homes, hospitals and home health agencies in South Carolina.

A City of Greenville spokesperson said the city has not been informed of any plans for the site, WYFF noted, adding that the spokesperson said “the land is zoned to allow for larger lots, more open space and larger buildings.”

A Bon Secours St. Francis spokesperson declined to comment regarding Novant Health’s purchase, WYFF stated.