A new medical facility has opened in West Augustine, Florida, aimed at providing essential health services to an underserved community. The Greg and Lydia White Health and Wellness Center, which cost $8 million to develop, is the first of its kind in the area, offering preventive care, fitness resources, mental health services, and health education regardless of residents’ financial situations.
Located on West King Street, this 14,000-square-foot center was established through the efforts of Greg White, founder and president of the West Augustine Historical Community Development Corp. The facility addresses significant health disparities in the area, where rates of infant mortality, diabetes, strokes, and mental health issues are notably higher than county averages. “For a long time, West Augustine residents have been clear about what has been missing,” said Clay Murphy, chair of the St. Johns County Commission. “This Health and Wellness Center is a direct response to that truth.”
Comprehensive Services Available
The center is designed to be a hub of well-being, featuring youth counseling through the Youth Crisis Center, fitness programs in collaboration with the First Coast YMCA, and free medical care for eligible adults from the Wildflower Clinic. Additionally, UF Health St. Johns plans to open a primary care clinic and behavioral health resource center on-site in the upcoming spring.
“This facility represents hope and action,” stated Joy Andrews, County Administrator. “It represents a community refusing to accept high infant mortality and limited access to care.” The center’s funding came from various partners, including state House Representative Cyndi Stevenson, former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, and several local organizations and benefactors.
Future Plans for Rehabilitation Services
In a related development, Baptist Health is set to establish an 18-bed inpatient rehabilitation unit at Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, managed by Brooks Rehabilitation. This new facility will facilitate a seamless transition for patients moving from acute care to rehabilitation services, enhancing patient outcomes significantly.
Expected to open in spring 2027, this unit will be the first inpatient rehabilitation facility within a Baptist Health hospital. “This new unit is a powerful demonstration of our commitment to supporting patients throughout their health journey,” remarked Nicole Thomas, hospital president of Baptist Jacksonville. The center will cater to patients recovering from strokes, brain and spinal cord injuries, and other neurological conditions.
“This collaboration brings together the expertise of Baptist Health in acute care services and Brooks Rehabilitation’s focus on rehabilitation,” said Doug Baer, president and CEO of Brooks Rehabilitation. He noted that the demand for rehabilitation services is increasing due to a growing and aging population.
Staff at the new unit will include board-certified physicians in physical medicine and rehabilitation, as well as nurses and therapists trained in neurorehabilitation care. The facility will feature private rooms, a large rehabilitation gym, and specialized neurological equipment.
In another significant announcement, Florida Blue has appointed Tony Jenkins as the new market president for Northeast Florida, effective March 1, 2024. Jenkins, who succeeds Darnell Smith, brings extensive experience in health care and community leadership. His role will involve overseeing regional business operations and community engagement across 17 counties.
“I am honored to return to my hometown and lead Florida Blue’s efforts in Northeast Florida,” Jenkins stated. He emphasized the importance of addressing the unique healthcare needs of the community while continuing Florida Blue’s legacy of impact.
