The move “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,” the statement said.

Eastern Carolina Pediatric owned and operated a pediatric medical practice in Darlington and Florence, where it had kept its main office, according to its website. Its professional staff consists of three board-certified pediatricians and three nurse practitioners.

HopeHealth CEO Carl Humphries said in the statement, “For decades, [Eastern Carolina Pediatric Associates'] 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.”

Eastern Carolina Pediatric Associates President and co-founder Dr. Richard Davis said in the statement, “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.”

Eastern Carolina Pediatric patients will continue receiving care with minimal disruption, and "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,” the statement said. “Medical records will transition seamlessly, and existing insurance plans will continue to be accepted, subject to individual plan participation,”

HopeHealth had been designated a federally qualified health center in 2007. It provides primary care, preventive care and support services to patients in Florence, Clarendon, Williamsburg, Aiken and Orangeburg counties, according to its website.