City of Aiken Votes No For University Hospital

Aiken, SC—- University Hospital wants to expand it’s services into Aiken. But Monday, night that extension was cut short after Aiken City Council members voted not to allow them to build a facility in the city. Hospital leaders say it’s a cut that may hurt folks in Aiken.

Dr. Andy Lasser, Executive Vice President, University Hospital: “We were disappointed but we understand the motivation of the council and the people who testified against our application. We strongly think it’s a great idea and the right time.”

University owns the property on Silver Bluff Road, and King Edward Way. Officials planned to build a 72,000-square foot building.

Dr. Andy Lasser: “20% our patients come from Aiken County and we just want to provide medical services closer to where they live.“

The idea for University to expand is welcomed by some, but not by others.

Resident of Aiken: “You need to bring something else here. The people need something else here. I can speak because I had a stroke and I live with a stroke.”

Resident of Aiken: “I’m not in favor of it. The traffic is horrible on the Southside. I go to a doctor over there and it is terrible to when get to her office because the traffic so bad.”

Some say because Aiken Regional is the only hospital in the City of Aiken bringing University in would be competition. However, University Hospital officials say they have no plans to build a hospital.

Dr. Andy Lasser: “This would totally be a medical office with outpatient services and no in patient services no ambulatory centers just physician offices.”

Dr. Lasser says University Hospital is currently working on a new proposal to try and get the Council to rethink their decision.