Mount Nittany Health announces new Bellefonte medical facility

Mount Nittany Health is deepening its commitment to Bellefonte with a new two-story, 40,000-square-foot medical office building at 987 E. Bishop Street in Bellefonte. The existing Bellefonte practice has been successful, and demand has outgrown the current space. This new facility provides capacity and flexibility to grow with the community.

“More than 120 years ago, Bellefonte Hospital laid the cornerstone for what would become Mount Nittany Health,” said Kathleen Rhine, president and CEO of Mount Nittany Health. “Our roots are here and this project is a meaningful investment in that history and in Bellefonte’s future.”

The new facility will bring together expanded services under one roof. Key features include a walk-in ExpressCARE clinic, a new imaging clinic, and the relocation and expansion of primary care, pediatrics, lab services and the Children’s Advocacy Center of Centre County. Primary care capacity will nearly double, with 18 exam rooms replacing the current 10, while pediatrics will grow to include eight exam rooms. ExpressCARE will also add six exam rooms dedicated to immediate, walk-in care, offering another convenient option for patients.

The addition of imaging services, such as X-ray and ultrasound, means that patients will no longer need to leave Bellefonte for diagnostic care. These expanded services align with Mount Nittany Health’s ongoing efforts to remove barriers to healthcare, such as transportation challenges and time away from work or school.

The inclusion and expansion of the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) of Centre County is an important part of what makes this project special. The CAC is focused on supporting children who have experienced abuse and helping families navigate an incredibly difficult time. The new facility will give the CAC an updated, expanded space to support the important work the team does for children and families.

“Access to health care is about more than having services available — it’s about making those services practical and convenient for the people who need them,” said Christopher Hester, MD, Chief Medical Officer. “This facility will help us meet people where they are and continue our commitment to the health of Bellefonte and the broader community.”

Feedback from the community played a central role in shaping the new facility’s design and services. Insights gathered through the Community Health Needs Assessment and direct input from residents helped ensure that the project aligns with local priorities. From self-scheduling technology and enhanced parking to improved accessibility, every detail of the new building is tailored to create a seamless and comfortable patient experience.

In addition to providing greater access to care, the new facility will also support job growth in Bellefonte, including staffing for the expanded imaging services and other new offerings. The project reflects Mount Nittany Health’s belief in investing in the long-term vitality of the community while making care more connected to the daily lives of residents.

Mount Nittany Health celebrated the project with a groundbreaking event on Sept. 16, bringing together community members, team members and project partners to mark the next chapter of care in Bellefonte. In keeping with the occasion, the celebration traded traditional shovels and dirt for a little more fun — confetti.

Looking ahead, the new building offers flexibility for future growth, ensuring that Mount Nittany Health can continue to meet the healthcare needs of Bellefonte as they evolve. With this expansion, Mount Nittany Health is taking a bold step to strengthen the healthcare foundation of the community.