Scotland Health Breaks Ground on New Wagram Family Practice

Scotland Health leaders, providers, community members, and project partners gathered today to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new Wagram Family Practice facility, underscoring the organization's long-term commitment to improving access to healthcare in rural communities.  

The new facility will replace the current practice location and provide an expanded, modern space designed to enhance the patient experience while supporting the high-quality care already delivered by the Wagram Family Practice team.  

During the ceremony, Scotland Health Chief Executive Officer David Pope emphasized the importance of addressing health disparities in rural North Carolina and reaffirmed the health system's commitment to the communities it serves.  

"Today represents more than the construction of a new building," Pope said. "It represents our commitment to ensuring that families in Wagram and the surrounding communities have access to quality healthcare close to home. We are investing in this community because we believe every person deserves the opportunity to live a longer, healthier life."  

Pope noted that significant differences in life expectancy continue to exist among North Carolina counties, making access to healthcare services a critical component of improving community health outcomes.  

Dr. Matthew Manzo, physician at Wagram Family Practice, expressed his appreciation for the investment and highlighted the growth the practice has experienced over the years.  

"The care we provide won't change because we already have an exceptional team delivering high-quality care," Manzo said. "However, this new facility demonstrates Scotland Health's commitment to Wagram and will provide a more comfortable, convenient environment for our patients and our staff. We're excited about the opportunities this project will bring to the community."  

The approximately 8,650-square-foot facility will feature expanded primary care services along with on-site laboratory services, x-ray, and an integrated Scotland Health Pharmacy. The pharmacy will include a drive-thru, enhancing convenience and improving coordination between healthcare providers and pharmacists.  

Dr. Shelly Lowery, Scotland Health's Chief Medical Officer, said the project reflects the organization's mission of making healthcare more accessible for rural residents.  

"When healthcare is convenient and comfortable, people are more likely to seek care and less likely to delay treatment," Lowery said. "This facility will allow us to continue providing excellent primary care while expanding access to services that patients need close to home."  

Representatives from Berry Building Group, the project's construction partner, shared details of the facility design and highlighted features intended to improve efficiency for both patients and staff, including additional exam rooms and modernized clinical space.  

Construction is expected to take approximately 13 to 14 months, with the facility anticipated to open in 2027.  

The new Wagram Family Practice will complement Scotland Health's ongoing investments in rural healthcare throughout the region and support the organization's mission of improving the health and wellness of the communities it serves.