ChristianaCare's Bold Vision Is Shaping the Future of Health Care in Southern Chester County, Pa

“ChristianaCare is here to stay. Together, as neighbors and advocates, we can make Southern Chester County a place where everyone thrives." That was the defining message from Janice E. Nevin, M.D., MPH, president and CEO of ChristianaCare, as she delivered the keynote address Thursday, Oct. 16, at the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce annual luncheon.

Speaking to more than 200 local business and civic leaders, Nevin reflected on ChristianaCare’s deepening roots in the region and its long-term commitment to meeting the health needs of this Pennsylvania community. “When Jennersville Hospital closed in 2021, it left a gap in care that could not be ignored,” she said. “We were called upon to step in and make sure families here had access to the care they depend on and deserve. And we answered that call.”

"The well-being of our community is directly linked to the success of our local economy," said Cheryl Kuhn, president and CEO of Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce. "A strong, vibrant business environment is only possible with a healthy population to support it. ChristianaCare is not just a health care provider; they are a vital economic engine and an indispensable partner in our community's success. ChristianaCare helps create a more productive workforce, attracts new talent and makes our community a more desirable place to live and do business."

Nevin said ChristianaCare’s mission —“We take care of people and each other”— has guided every decision since the health system first announced plans to serve Southern Chester County in 2022. “Our values of love and excellence aren’t just words on the wall,” she said. “You can feel them when you walk into one of our hospitals. Love means compassion and the courage to do what’s right for our community. Excellence means being exceptional today and even better tomorrow.” She described how the new West Grove Neighborhood Hospital embodies those values. The 20,000-square-foot facility opened in August, restoring emergency medical services to the region for the first time in three years. It’s open around the clock and designed to treat everything from broken bones to heart attacks and strokes, with seamless transfers for patients who need more advanced care. So far, it has provided care for more than 2,300 patient visits. “This hospital isn’t just keeping up with change — it’s leading it,” Nevin said. “It’s a model for the future of health care: accessible, efficient and centered around the patient.”

Nevin emphasized that ChristianaCare’s investment in West Grove is only the beginning. “Our campus master plan leaves plenty of room to expand,” she said. “We’ve already purchased space across the street to house primary care, imaging and new cardiology services. We’re expanding thoughtfully, meeting today’s needs and preparing for tomorrow.” She added that ChristianaCare’s approach to growth reflects the same values that shaped its response after Jennersville’s closure: listen to the community, partner locally and plan for long-term sustainability.

Nevin closed her remarks with a call to action for the business and civic leaders gathered in the room. “ChristianaCare is committed for the long haul, but we can’t do it alone,” she said. “Your leadership, your partnership, your belief in this community are essential. Together, we can build a healthier, stronger Southern Chester County, where exceptional care is always close to home.”