(LOOTPRESS) – In a state where approximately 10% of the population is affected by neurologic disorders, West Virginia is making strides to address the growing healthcare challenge. Alzheimer’s Disease alone impacts over 38,000 individuals, with that number projected to rise by 20% over the next decade. Thousands more face conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease, Epilepsy, and Multiple Sclerosis, yet access to specialized neurological care remains limited.
To bridge this gap, Vandalia Health has announced the construction of the Neuroscience Institute on Morris Street in Charleston, directly across from the main entrance to CAMC General Hospital. The new facility aims to centralize care, reduce long wait times, and minimize the need for patients to travel out of state for treatment.
State Support for Critical Healthcare Infrastructure
On Monday, January 6, Governor Jim Justice presented a $5 million check to support the development of the Neuroscience Institute. The funding reflects the state’s commitment to improving access to specialized neurological care for residents.
“I want to thank Governor Justice for investing in the future of neurological care in our community,” said Dave Ramsey, President and CEO of Vandalia Health. “This will help Vandalia Health better serve the citizens of central and southern West Virginia by combining neuroscience specialists into one space for team-based patient care as well as opportunities for research and care advancement.”
A State-of-the-Art Facility for Advanced Neurological Care
The 30,000-square-foot Neuroscience Institute is designed to provide cutting-edge medical care while fostering advancements in neurology education and research. The facility will feature programs dedicated to stroke, epilepsy, movement disorders, hospital neurology, and headache management.
By expanding neurology training programs, the institute also aims to attract and retain top talent in the field, addressing the shortage of specialists in the region and ensuring long-term improvements in care for neurologic disorders.
A Critical Step Forward for West Virginia
With its high prevalence of neurologic conditions and limited resources, West Virginia faces unique challenges in meeting the needs of its residents. The establishment of the Neuroscience Institute represents a significant investment in the state’s healthcare infrastructure, promising improved outcomes and a brighter future for those affected by these complex conditions.
Construction of the institute is expected to advance quickly, bringing hope to thousands of patients and their families across central and southern West Virginia.