Investor Spotlight: Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist — Advancing Healthcare,Strengthening Communities

For more than a century, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist has been dedicated to

improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves. Its roots date back to

1902, when what is now Wake Forest University School of Medicine was founded, followed

by the opening of North Carolina Baptist Hospital in 1923. Today, Atrium Health Wake

Forest Baptist is one of the Southeast's leading academic health systems, combining

nationally recognized patient care, medical education, and groundbreaking research to

serve communities across North Carolina and beyond.

A Transformational Partnership for the Yadkin Valley

One of the most significant milestones for our region came with the partnership between

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist and Hugh Chatham Health. Officialized in 2025, the

collaboration strengthens healthcare across the Yadkin Valley by combining the trusted

local care that residents have relied on for generations with the resources of one of the

nation's premier academic health systems. As part of the partnership, Atrium Health

committed a $100 million investment to enhance facilities, recruit physicians and

specialists, expand clinical programs, implement the Epic electronic medical record

system, and improve access to advanced healthcare services throughout the region.

For Surry County, this investment extends beyond healthcare. Access to exceptional

medical services is one of the most important factors businesses consider when

expanding or relocating, and it plays a critical role in attracting and retaining talent. By

strengthening regional healthcare infrastructure, this partnership is helping ensure our

communities remain healthy, competitive, and positioned for long-term growth.

Leadership That Puts Communities First

Helping lead this exciting new chapter is Chad Brown, President of Hugh Chatham Health.

As an executive with Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Brown is helping shape the future

of healthcare across northwest North Carolina by expanding access to high-quality care

while reinforcing the strength of rural communities.

A longtime advocate for community healthcare, Brown has led efforts to strengthen local

services through strategic partnerships, innovative technology, and greater access to

specialized care. His leadership reflects a commitment to preserving the trusted, patient-

centered care that defines Hugh Chatham Health while connecting residents to the

nationally recognized expertise and resources of Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist.Through this collaborative vision, Brown continues to champion investments that enhance

patient care, support healthcare professionals, and contribute to the long-term health and

economic vitality of the region.

Investing in Health and Workforce

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist's impact reaches far beyond hospitals and clinics. As

one of the region's largest employers, the organization invests in workforce development,

physician recruitment, nursing education, and professional training while creating

thousands of meaningful careers in healthcare.

Its commitment to education through Wake Forest University School of Medicine, clinical

research, and community partnerships helps build the next generation of healthcare

professionals while ensuring rural communities have access to high-quality care for years

to come.

Building a Healthier Future Together

Strong healthcare systems create strong communities. Through strategic investments,

collaborative leadership, and a shared commitment to serving rural North Carolina, Atrium

Health Wake Forest Baptist is helping shape a healthier future for Surry County and the

entire Yadkin Valley.

“We are working to expand access to advanced, high-quality care close to home while also

creating opportunities to attract talent, strengthen our workforce and support the long-

term growth of our communities,” said Chad Brown, president of Hugh Chatham Health.

“I’m excited about what lies ahead and the positive impact these investments will have on

the health, economic vitality and future of this region.”

Surry County is proud to partner with an organization whose investment extends beyond

facilities and technology; it is an investment in people, opportunity, and the long-term

vitality of our region. The partnership with Hugh Chatham Health represents more than a

new chapter in healthcare; it is a commitment to ensuring that world-class

care remains close to home while supporting the continued growth and prosperity of our

community.