SouthernMED Pediatrics has announced the integration of NiteOwl Pediatric Urgent Care into its network, creating SouthernMED Pediatrics + NiteOwl Extended Hours in North Augusta. The practice, located at 616 Edgefield Road, Suite 180, will continue providing after-hours pediatric care through December before expanding its services in January 2026. Beginning in January, the practice will transition from solely urgent care to offering primary pediatric care with extended daytime hours alongside evening and weekend availability. This expansion allows both established and new patient families to access comprehensive pediatric services in one location. The practice will operate Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Dr. R. Kyle Guyton, Co-Founder of SouthernMED Pediatrics, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion. With a strong presence already in the Aiken area, we've witnessed the continued growth of surrounding regions and the increasing need for high-quality pediatric providers, Guyton said. By expanding service hours and access to care, we are setting a new standard for family-centered pediatric services in North Augusta. This integration marks SouthernMED's entry into North Augusta, one of South Carolina's fastest-growing regions, and establishes it as one of only two dedicated pediatric practices in the city. The North Augusta location will strengthen SouthernMED's statewide network, which offers telemedicine, behavioral health integration, online appointment scheduling, and coordinated family communication tools. SouthernMED has already begun accepting appointments for primary care and well visits at this location starting in January.
The practice will continue under the leadership of Carlee Leopard as it expands its service model. This move represents SouthernMED's ongoing commitment to addressing pediatric healthcare needs in growing communities. For more information about SouthernMED Pediatrics and its services, visit https://www.southernmedpeds.com. The integration is significant as it consolidates urgent and primary care under one roof with extended hours, potentially reducing the need for families to seek care at emergency rooms for non-critical issues. By offering services from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and on weekends, the practice aims to accommodate working parents and provide consistent care. This model could improve health outcomes by ensuring continuity of care and timely access to medical attention. The expansion into North Augusta addresses a gap in pediatric services in a rapidly growing area, which may alleviate pressure on existing healthcare facilities and enhance community health infrastructure. SouthernMED's inclusion of telemedicine and behavioral health integration reflects a modern approach to pediatric care that prioritizes accessibility and comprehensive support. The practice's ability to accept appointments for primary care starting in January indicates a proactive strategy to meet anticipated demand, positioning it as a key player in the region's healthcare landscape. This development underscores the importance of adaptable healthcare models in responding to demographic shifts and evolving patient needs.
