UNC Health has unveiled plans to build a new N.C. Children's Hospital in North Carolina, US, to provide advanced medical care for children and adolescents.

Said to be the first of its type in North Carolina, this hospital will eliminate the need for families to go out-of-state for treatment.

The facility will house a psychiatric hospital for children and adolescents.

Currently, the health system is deciding on a site in the Triangle region, and planning for the hospital design, and fundraising campaign launch.

The new facility is expected to be ready over the coming eight to ten years. Estimated to cost more than $2bn, the project is expected to generate thousands of jobs.

UNC Health CEO Wesley Burks said: “This is a monumental partnership for our state’s healthcare future.

“The state’s initial investment of $320m in a new flagship children’s hospital demonstrates state leaders’ dedication to providing innovative healthcare solutions for children and families across North Carolina.

“As the state of North Carolina’s healthcare system, our ability to fulfil our mission is strengthened through the investments in this year’s budget.”

In addition to offering advanced medical care and mental health services, UNC Health uses other healthcare initiatives such as Medicaid expansion and NC Care to address health disparities in rural areas.

UNC Health is part of the University of North Carolina system, including 15 hospitals, 19 hospital campuses, and more than 900 clinics.