Hilton Head Hospital Marks 50 Years of Caring for the Community

Community celebration at Hilton Head Hospital's 50th anniversary.

Hilton Head Island, August 9, 2025

News Summary

Hilton Head Hospital celebrated its 50th anniversary, recognizing its role in addressing the healthcare needs of Hilton Head Island. Since its establishment in 1975 by Dr. Peter LaMotte and William Bethea Jr., the hospital has served countless residents and visitors. With Novant Health acquiring the hospital in 2024, future plans include enhancing patient care while honoring its legacy. The anniversary event brought together community leaders and hospital staff to reflect on the hospital’s important contributions to local healthcare and community well-being.

Hilton Head Celebrates 50 Years of Community Care

Hilton Head Island marked a significant milestone with Hilton Head Hospital celebrating its 50th anniversary on August 8, 2025. This landmark event recognizes the hospital’s long-standing commitment to addressing the healthcare needs of the local population.

Founded in 1975 by Dr. Peter LaMotte and William Bethea Jr., Hilton Head Hospital emerged in response to the growing health care demands of the island, particularly for the substantial number of retirees and older adults residing there. Almost a decade before its inception, community leaders identified the necessity for such a facility due to the increasing population.

Today, Hilton Head Hospital plays a vital role in the community, serving thousands of residents and visitors annually. In February 2024, the hospital transitioned to new ownership when Novant Health acquired it, implementing plans to enhance patient care while honoring its rich history.

Anniversary Ceremony Highlights

The anniversary ceremony witnessed participation from Town and County leaders, along with current and past hospital staff. Celebrants took the chance to reflect on the hospital’s growth and its integral position within the community. During the event, Bethea Jr. expressed his appreciation for the continued support from the community over the years, reiterating that their collaboration has significantly contributed to the hospital’s success.

Peter LaMotte’s son also spoke during the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of quality, everyday medical care in supporting community development. His insights underscored the connection between a robust hospital system and the overall well-being of the island’s residents.

Commitment to the Future

As Novant Health steps in, the organization aims to preserve the hospital’s legacy while introducing improvements to patient care. Joel Taylor, Market Chief Executive Officer for Novant Health Hilton Head Island, marked the event as a milestone, conveying aspirations for advancing healthcare services on the island.

Throughout the anniversary celebrations, staff members and guests engaged in sharing memories and stories, reflecting on the hospital’s journey and its evolution over the past five decades. This reconnection highlighted the strong bonds formed between the hospital staff and the community, emphasizing the hospital’s status as a cornerstone of health care on Hilton Head Island.

Looking Back

Over its 50 years, Hilton Head Hospital has not only expanded its services but has also adapted to the changing healthcare landscape. As the community has grown, so too has the demand for accessible, quality care. The establishment of the hospital has been instrumental in ensuring local residents and visitors have access to necessary medical services—playing a crucial part in the fabric of life on Hilton Head Island.

With a dedication to providing comprehensive care while embracing new advancements, Hilton Head Hospital stands poised to continue its mission for many years to come.

FAQ Section

What is the significance of Hilton Head Hospital’s 50th anniversary?

The 50th anniversary celebrates the hospital’s long-standing commitment to health care on Hilton Head Island, recognizing its crucial role in the community since its founding in 1975.

Who founded Hilton Head Hospital?

Hilton Head Hospital was founded by Dr. Peter LaMotte and William Bethea Jr. to meet the growing health care needs of the island’s population.

When did Novant Health acquire Hilton Head Hospital?

Novant Health acquired Hilton Head Hospital in February 2024.

What are the future plans for Hilton Head Hospital under Novant Health?

Novant Health plans to enhance patient care while preserving the hospital’s historical legacy.

Key Features of Hilton Head Hospital

Feature Details
Established 1975
Founders Dr. Peter LaMotte and William Bethea Jr.
Current Owner Novant Health
Significance Fulfilling critical health care needs and community support
Annual Patient Servings Thousands

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Additional Resources

STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD

The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.

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