Clayton, NC, could get a hospital of its own

North Carolina has approved the construction of a medical center on a 34-acre site in Clayton. The facility will include an emergency room, a diagnostic lab and operating rooms. It is expected to open by July 2009. In addition, Johnston Memorial Hospital recently asked the state for permission to include 27 inpatient beds at the center to accommodate longer stays and a greater number of medical procedures. The state is expected to decide on the issue by September.