Primary Care + Wellness
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Everything You Need for a Smooth Visit to Charleston Medical Center
Welcome to Charleston Medical Center
We're honored to care for you and your loved ones at MUSC Health's Charleston Medical Center. Below, you'll find helpful information to guide your visit, from what to bring to where to go. Being prepared helps us deliver the exceptional, compassionate care you can expect from every member of our team.
When to Arrive at the Medical Center
Ashley River Tower, University Hospital, Children’s Hospital and Rutledge Tower
If you are scheduled for a procedure, a nurse will call to confirm your arrival time and location. Additional instructions and answers to your questions may be provided at that time.
For patients admitted for therapy or treatment, the Admit Transfer Center will contact you on the day of admission with arrival and registration instructions. At registration, co-payments or co-insurance may be collected via credit card, cash, or check.
Ashley River Tower Admitting Office: 843-876-5677
University Hospital and Children's Hospital: 843-792-9241
Institute of Psychiatry
The Institute of Psychiatry is a dedicated psychiatric facility with an admitting process different than other locations. Patients interested in receiving treatment should call Health Connection at 843-792-1414 for specific details.
Admission Locations
Ashley River Tower (ART)
Central Registration is on the first floor of the Atrium, across from the cafeteria. You can access this area from the Courtenay Parking Garage walk-over (mezzanine level) or through the front entrance with valet service.
University Hospital, Children’s Hospital and Rutledge Tower
- Central Registration: First floor, Main Lobby (Children’s, Interventional Radiology, and scheduled admissions)
- 4th Floor Surgery Registration: North Tower, accessible via Elevators E (Main Lobby) or D (main hallway)
- Rutledge Tower: Outpatient Clinics, Radiology, Labs, Ambulatory Surgery, and Pre-op Surgery are located on the first floor. Follow signage from the main hallway.
What to Bring
To ensure a smooth check-in process, please bring:
- A photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport)
- Insurance cards and any necessary pre-authorization documentation
- A copy of your advance directive or living will
- A complete list of current medications (prescription and over-the-counter)
- Any reports from your referring physician
- Optional Personal Items: Pajamas, robe, slippers, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, soap, lotion, reading glasses, books, or portable music devices.
Please Note:
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While many rooms have safes, we recommend leaving valuables at home.
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MUSC is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Be sure to remove personal items from safes upon discharge or room transfer.
Patient Rights
At MUSC Health, your rights as a patient are protected by state and federal law to ensure safe, high-quality care. You will receive a copy of these rights upon admission. You may also view them online or request a copy from the Admissions Office if not received.Leaving the Hospital: What You Need to Know
Leaving the hospital is an important step in your recovery, and our team is here to ensure it goes smoothly. Before you go home, we’ll walk you through your discharge plan, including medications, follow-up care, and next steps.
For insurance or billing questions:
- Call the Admitting Office at 843-792-9241 to speak with a financial counselor
- Call Medical Center Patient Accounting at 843-792-2311 for billing assistance
For medical or care coordination questions:
- Speak with your nurse
- Or request to speak with your nurse case manager or social worker
We’re here to support your transition home and make sure you feel confident in your care plan.
