HopeHealth is pleased to announce the acquisition of Eastern Carolina Pediatric Associates (ECPA), a respected pediatric practice that has served children and families throughout the Pee Dee for more than 40 years. The acquisition expands access to trusted pediatric care in Florence and Darlington Counties while preserving the relationships families have established with their providers for decades.

Dr. Richard Davis and Dr. John Keith have built a pediatric practice that takes care of the whole child; providing a specialized, heartfelt service for families of the Pee Dee for many years. This transition brings the experienced providers, nurses and staff of ECPA into the HopeHealth family, strengthening pediatric services while maintaining the patient-centered approach that has made the practice a trusted name in children’s health care. Patients will continue receiving care from their familiar providers with minimal disruption as the practice is integrated into HopeHealth’s growing network.

“We are honored to welcome Eastern Carolina Pediatric Associates to HopeHealth,” said Carl Humphries, Chief Executive Officer of HopeHealth. “For decades, their providers have earned the trust of families throughout our community by delivering exceptional pediatric care. Our top priority is to preserve the outstanding care families expect while expanding access to comprehensive, coordinated health services that help children thrive.”

“Joining HopeHealth allows us to continue the legacy of care our patients have trusted for 42 years while providing access to additional resources and services that will benefit children and families throughout the region,” said Dr. Richard Davis, ECPA President and co-founder. “We share the same commitment to delivering compassionate, high-quality care, and we are excited about what this partnership means for the future of pediatric health care in our community.”

“Eastern Carolina Pediatric Associates has been privileged to care for generations of children and families in Florence, Darlington and the surrounding communities,” said Dr. John Keith. “We see this partnership with HopeHealth as an opportunity to build on that history and create an even stronger future for pediatric care in the Pee Dee. HopeHealth shares our commitment to putting patients first, and together we will have greater resources to serve children and their families.”

Patients can expect continuity of care throughout the transition. Existing appointments will continue as scheduled, providers and staff will remain in place, and practice locations in Florence and Darlington will continue serving patients under HopeHealth’s management. Medical records will transition seamlessly, and existing insurance plans will continue to be accepted, subject to individual plan participation. The organizations are working closely together to ensure a smooth experience for patients, families and employees.

The acquisition also helps address the growing need for pediatric providers across the Pee Dee by expanding access to preventive care, well-child visits, immunizations, developmental screenings, same-day sick visits and chronic disease management for children. As HopeHealth continues to grow, the organization remains focused on strengthening local health care, improving patient outcomes and ensuring families have access to comprehensive care regardless of their ability to pay.