HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital

Are you expecting a baby or planning a pregnancy?

You might consider taking a prenatal vitamin as part of pre-pregnancy care — even before you conceive. But certainly, it’s important to start taking one as soon as you realize you’re pregnant.

Read our blog to learn more about prenatal vitamins with ingredients that support you and your baby before, during and after pregnancy: https://bit.ly/4fk7NUk

“At HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, we continue to look for ways to further improve our care delivery to the local community,” says Jeff Taylor, chief executive officer at HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital. “The new interfacility transport service will extend the reach of emergency services at our facilities and help our care teams provide timely, high-quality care to community members in their time of need.”

Annually, HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals care for more than 11.6 million patients. Our emergency room (ER) colleagues care for patients who are facing traumatic or severe, often life-threatening medical emergencies, ranging from car accidents to strokes and heart attacks.

We are committed to creating healthier tomorrows for every patient we serve. Thank you to all our ER and EMS first responders for their important community role in saving lives.

We are pleased to announce the addition of HCA Florida Maitland Emergency (ER) to our expansive network of more than 652 affiliated sites of care, which includes hospitals, physician practices and freestanding emergency rooms. With over 84,000 colleagues and 11,100 physicians, we are committed to providing high-quality care to patients across the Sunshine State.

HCA Florida Maitland Emergency is a full-service, state-of-the-art emergency room with board certified emergency medicine physicians, nurses and healthcare professionals ready to service the needs of the community with the same capabilities as a main hospital emergency room. It features 11 emergency exam rooms, CT scan, digital X-ray, ultrasound and laboratory services, and is capable of caring for all ages, including pediatrics. The 11,000-square-foot facility is expected to serve more than 100,000 local residents and employs approximately 22 full-time healthcare professionals

We are committed to creating healthier tomorrows for every patient we serve. Learn more about our emergency care expansion: https://bit.ly/3ykdQY9

As the temperatures rise in Florida, it's important to stay hydrated.

Staying hydrated can improve brain performance and cognitive function. It can also help regulate your emotions and fight feelings of anxiety. Proper hydration can even help you lose weight or manage your weight and prevent kidney stones.

Check out these four refreshing recipes to keep you hydrated this summer: https://bit.ly/4dbmK9b

“Every birth is unique, and as a midwife, my goal is to support and empower each parent through their journey. I am honored to be a part of such a significant moment in their lives,” said Lynn-Della Trotter, MSN, APRN, nurse midwife at HCA Florida Memorial Hospital.

As one of the largest healthcare providers in the state, we've welcomed over 32,000 newborns in the past year. That's a birth every 17 minutes. Whether you're looking for holistic birthing assistance or the latest technology and the assurance of a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), we're committed to providing you with the specialized care you want when you need it.

Learn how we help expectant families become confident through tours, classes and events at your local hospital: https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/specialties/womens-care/labor-and-delivery

We are excited to announce that HCA Florida North Florida Hospital has completed its first robotic Whipple procedure. This new minimally invasive surgical option will treat gastrointestinal cancers.

“Offering this new procedure here at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital is a game-changer for our patients, who previously would have to travel to other areas of the state for such advanced care,” said Dr. Francisco Macedo, surgical oncologist at North Florida Hospital.

If you or a loved one are at risk for gastrointestinal cancer, screenings are key tools for detecting early warning signs and maintaining overall good health. Schedule your screening: https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/campaigns/screenings

"The thought of being a first-time mom with a NICU baby was scary, but the HCA Florida Kendall Hospital nurses were very patient and explained the process and everything they would do. I am forever grateful to the doctors and the NICU nurses for caring for Annabelle and me," said Anjali Ferrer. Baby Annabelle was born prematurely at 30 weeks, weighing 2 lbs., 13 oz, due to her mother, Anjali, experiencing severe preeclampsia.

We understand that every labor and delivery experience is unique. As a part of our extended network of care, we're able to bring together top-notch teams of neonatal specialists who work collaboratively, sharing insights and expertise, to make sure your child receives the highest possible care.

Learn how we help expectant parents become confident parents through tours, classes and events at your local hospital: https://bit.ly/3LraANC

Please join us in congratulating Allyssa Tobitt on her new position as the youngest CEO in HCA Florida Healthcare history — leading a team of more than 2,000 at HCA Florida Mercy Hospital in Miami.

At HCA Florida Healthcare, we have more than 650 sites of care throughout the state, employing more than 84,000 colleagues and 11,100 physicians. As a part of HCA Healthcare, we are committed to creating a connected and collaborative healthcare experience for our colleagues, patients and communities.

Learn more about Allysa's 12-year journey in healthcare, what helped her along the way and her guidance for young women: https://bit.ly/465ZUgY

Today, we celebrate with HCA Florida Citrus Hospital 67 years of high-quality care to patients in our Citrus County communities.

At HCA Florida Healthcare, our colleagues are committed to creating a nurturing and safe environment for every precious arrival. As one of the largest healthcare providers in the state, we’ve welcomed over 32,000 newborns in the past year.

Learn more about our comprehensive women's health services, including prenatal care, labor and delivery services and postpartum care: https://bit.ly/4cUqMCF

"After spending five months in the NICU, these nurses have become like family. They took care of my baby as if he was theirs. I am forever grateful to all the hospital staff who fought to keep my baby alive and well," said Lizy Morejon after giving birth to her first baby at 25 weeks, weighing 0.86 lbs. at HCA Florida Kendall Hospital.

We understand that every labor and delivery experience is unique. As one of the largest healthcare providers in the state, we've welcomed over 32,000 newborns in the past year—a birth every 17 minutes.

We are grateful to all of our colleagues who care for our tiniest patients. Learn more about our labor and delivery services: https://bit.ly/4eYJ7AA

“My colleagues encouraged me to go to nursing school… and stick with it. So, it’s important to me that I pay it back, not just to them but to the hospital, too. Because it feels like home here,” says Camilla Inzerilli, a nurse at HCA Florida Healthcare. “They always ask you why: ‘Why do you want to be a nurse?’ I want to be a good nurse and be good to people.”

At HCA Florida Healthcare, we are passionate about investing in the communities we serve and developing the next generation of healthcare leaders.

Learn more about nursing education and training opportunities and hear from HCA Florida Healthcare nurses who are making their dreams come true—and changing the face of healthcare in communities across the Sunshine State: https://bit.ly/3zJiuPH

At HCA Florida Healthcare, we are proud to invest in efforts to further healthcare education and address the national nursing and caregiver shortage across the Sunshine State.

Our impact is made possible by our incredible colleagues, communities and strategic partners, such as the Florida Department of Education and their amazing teachers.

Our partnership provides opportunities to support programming for youth development, promote healthcare careers, improve student retention and advancement and inspire the next generation of leaders.

We are keenly aware of the role our educators play in this process and are pleased to be a sponsor of the 2025 Teacher of the Year.

Congratulations to all the nominees!

Learn more about our support of healthcare education in Florida: https://bit.ly/3RYiiCw

"We prefer coming to HCA Florida Lakeland Emergency because they are quick, attentive, and compassionate. They always take the time to listen, and you never feel rushed. Nurse Richard Pass explains everything that's going on, and my daughter, Kennedy, has felt more comfortable. He is always kind."

To all of our HCA Florida Healthcare colleagues, like Richard, and the more than 93,000 nurses across our larger HCA Healthcare network: Thank you for showing up in ways that make our patients feel special. You show up every day to drive nursing forward at HCA Healthcare and beyond.

We are lighting up with joy this Fourth of July as we welcome these adorable babies born at our HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals across the Sunshine State.

At HCA Florida Healthcare, we prioritize compassionate care. Our dedicated colleagues ensure a nurturing and safe environment for every precious arrival. From the first moments to ongoing support, we are here to provide exceptional care.

Learn more about our labor and delivery services and scheduling a maternity tour: https://bit.ly/3XPXFMM

🎆

"At HCA Florida Healthcare, we're dedicated to providing exceptional care to every patient, every time," says Walker Johnson, RN at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital. "I've witnessed firsthand the commitment of our nursing staff to advocate for patients and ensure their voices are heard. Our nurses go above and beyond, making a difference in the lives of those we serve. I can absolutely attest to the quality of care and the sense of belonging that permeates throughout our hospitals."

Our knowledgeable and compassionate nurses, like Walker, across HCA Florida Healthcare, positively impact patients' lives daily. If you or a loved one experiences an emergency during this holiday weekend, our skilled doctors and nurses are available 24/7 to provide the care you need when you need it the most.

Excited to celebrate the ?

If fireworks are legal where you live, remember to prioritize safety. Follow these tips for a fun and injury-free celebration.

If there's an accident, know where to find emergency care: https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/specialties/emergency-care

"From the time we arrived, the team at UCF Lake Nona Hospital truly upheld the mission. I have never experienced such love and positivity as a patient or family member. Thank you, UCF Lake Nona, for taking such good care of my person, my wife, and mother to my children, Sheree!" said Brian Halterman.

Thank you to the more than 84,000 dedicated colleagues across HCA Florida Healthcare who care like family for patients like Sheree through every step of their care journey.

"When you are having a stroke, every minute matters. Because I received the care I needed quickly, I was back to normal activities and cleared to return to work within a month," said Lieutenant Greg McGann. "I was fortunate my stroke happened where it did, but I know my colleagues would respond the same for anyone else as they did for me."

When Sanford Fire Department Lieutenant Greg McGann collapsed during his shift, crew members knew what to do. Recognizing signs of a stroke, the team immediately transported Lt. McGann to HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital.

"We know when someone is having a stroke, fast response can mean the difference between life and death," said Dr. Ajeet S. Sodhi, an interventional neurologist at HCA Florida Healthcare. "The fast response of his crew in recognizing the symptoms and transporting him immediately to a hospital with advanced stroke treatment capabilities resulted in an excellent outcome."

At HCA Florida Healthcare, our comprehensive stroke centers have emergency stroke care teams available around the clock to provide lifesaving diagnosis and treatment and rehabilitation services and specialists to help with your recovery.

Compassion is a critical part of patient care. A smile, a kind word, a listening ear, genuine acts of caring – all have the power to make a difference in the lives of our patients. In February, caregivers at HCA Healthcare’s UCF Lake Nona Hospital demonstrated a powerful act of compassion.

After experiencing abdominal pain in February, Martha Ines Perez Bermudez sought emergency care at the Orlando, Florida hospital. Following a series of tests, Martha was diagnosed with clear cell carcinoma (CCC) of the endometrium, a rare and aggressive form of endometrial cancer. Gynecologic oncologist Dr. Maria Ruiz performed a hysterectomy to remove as much of Martha’s tumor as possible. While her surgery was successful, her cancer didn’t respond to treatment, and this spring, she began palliative care. In a recent return to the Orlando, Florida hospital for worsening symptoms, Martha learned that the cancer had rapidly progressed, and hospice care was recommended.

In the following days, Martha shared with her care team, “I just want to go to the beach.”

Lissette Francis, a case manager at UCF Lake Nona Hospital, wanted to help make Martha’s dream a reality and coordinated a plan with the National Health Transport, Inc.. Martha’s transport was arranged, and two local EMS crew members volunteered to take Martha to the beach on their day off. In collaboration with Canaveral Fire Rescue City/Port, they arranged an ATV buggy to accommodate Martha and bring her to the beach to walk on the sandy shore.

As Martha was prepared to be discharged home from the hospital the following day, Lissette shared the wonderful surprise. Later, Lissette said being able to make Martha’s final wish come true is what her job is all about. “This is what it means to care like family and something I will never forget,” she said.

When asked about this experience, Dr. Ruiz said, “It’s why I do what I do—to make our patients’ reality as beautiful as possible.”

Thank you to our HCA Florida Healthcare colleagues and EMS partners for providing our patients with physical, emotional and spiritual support – and treating them with the dignity and respect they deserve.

"I can't remember a time in my life when I didn't shake," said Roy Narunsky.

Roy Narunsky has battled essential tremors since his teens, making simple tasks like pouring coffee a challenge.

Thanks to focused ultrasound technology, he's found new hope. This innovative, scalpel-free procedure offers immediate relief without invasive surgery. "I'm excited to finally do the things I've struggled with," Roy shared.

We are grateful for our colleagues across HCA Florida Healthcare and our larger network HCA Healthcare, who continually advance their knowledge and skill to provide the highest level of care to patients like Roy.

Ready to make a splash this summer? If you’re an avid swimmer, you’re boosting your health in more ways than one! Find out how swimming helps your physical and mental health, and get water safety tips for all swimmers, from beginners to pros: https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/healthy-living/blog/is-swimming-cardio-why-its-the-ultimate-low-impact-workout

We are pleased to announce the addition of HCA Florida Yulee Emergency (ER) to our expansive network of more than 652 affiliated sites of care, which includes hospitals, physician practices and freestanding emergency rooms. With over 84,000 colleagues and 11,100 physicians, we are committed to providing high-quality care to patients across the Sunshine State.

The 15,530 square foot freestanding emergency department will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will serve the communities of Yulee, Callahan, Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island and nearby South Georgia residents.

“By providing an Emergency Room in the Yulee area, we are listening to what residents need,” said Frederick Jenkins, MD, Director of Emergency Services for HCA Florida Memorial Hospital. “We are excited to bring our high level of healthcare expertise and compassionate care to Nassau County.

We are committed to creating healthier tomorrows for every patient we serve. Learn more about our emergency care expansion: https://bit.ly/3VQjdHF

If you're pregnant, it’s never too early to start thinking about what you want for your labor and delivery experience. Take a look at our tips for creating a birth plan and read our blog to learn more: https://bit.ly/3KTUpZ6

"From the moment I was admitted to labor & delivery, the nurses were incredible. Each and every nurse and staff member on L&D, postpartum, and in the NICU was absolutely amazing. I developed many friendships during my stay, and I couldn't have done it without them," said Chloe Crenshaw.

At 29 weeks, Chloe was admitted to HCA Florida Capital Hospital due to complications in her pregnancy. She said, "I was extremely anxious about this long-term stay and was concerned I would become lonely and possibly depressed. But then I was introduced to the remarkable team at HCA Florida Capital Hospital."

“The amazing team even threw me a baby shower before our beautiful son, Beau, was delivered via C-section. The team cared for us like we were family, and that is exactly what they have become - family.”

Thank you to our colleagues who are committed to creating a nurturing and safe environment for every precious arrival. As one of the largest healthcare providers in the state, we’ve welcomed over 32,000 newborns in the past year.

Learn more about our comprehensive women's health services, including prenatal care, labor and delivery services and postpartum care: https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/specialties/womens-care/labor-and-delivery

We are excited to announce the recipient of the BEE Award for the second quarter at HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital! The BEE (Being Exceptional Everyday) Award is presented quarterly to an ancillary staff member who delivers compassionate care and exceptional patient experiences.

Congratulations to Cedrick Wong for being recognized with this honor! Cedrick was nominated by a colleague who was inspired by the lengths he went to care for a patient who needed a specific item that was not available at the hospital. Cedrick's colleague noted, "Cedrick always shows a willingness to go above and beyond, not just for patients, but for his coworkers as well."

Thank you, Cedrick, for being an outstanding caregiver, colleague, and human being!

On this 50th anniversary of National EMS Week, HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital joins our greater HCA Healthcare network of care in recognizing the unmatched dedication displayed by first responders each and every day.

You are the first to arrive to care for our patients and communities with skill and bravery.

Today, and every day, we are grateful for the lifesaving care you provide.

Congratulations to our second quarter PETAL Award Winner, Jannifer Pharr!

Our patient care technician honorees demonstrate the PETALS principles:
• Passion & compassion in the care they provide every day
• Establishes a special connection through use of kindness and sincerity
• Teamwork
• Always creates the best experience for their patients
• Love for their job
• Shows respect

Jannifer received a nomination from one of her peers stating, “She goes above and beyond for this hospital – she even helps out in the kitchen. There’s never an opportunity she turns down and it’s great people like her that give us PCA and PCTs a good name. I just love her and the positivity that she radiates.”

Thank you, Jannifer for not only caring for your patients like family, but also your coworkers.

We are in our💫 Hospital Week Era 💫 this week celebrating our colleagues who make Raulerson so great! From making bestie bracelets with our night shift team bright and early, to an afternoon ice-cream social pick me up we are having fun as a team all week.

Happy Hospital Week to everyone at HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital! No matter the role you play, you make an impact on everyone we serve. The work you do is part of our commitment to show up for our patients and provide the best care possible. Thank you to everyone for all that you do for our patients and community each and every day!

To wrap up National Nurses Week on this , Med Surg Nurse, Jennifer Heaton was named our second quarter DAISY Award winner! Jennifer was nominated by a local physician for the exceptional care she provided to make him comfortable during his hospitalization.

The DAISY Award is given to caregivers throughout the year who exemplify our hospital's mission: above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.

Jennifer, thank you for your tireless dedication and commitment to patient-centered, compassionate care. We are grateful to work alongside of you and thankful you are part of our HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital team!

Day three of is filled with even more heartwarming moments as we continue to celebrate our incredible team! 🌟 This morning, we kicked off the day bright and early with a staff-favorite: a complimentary breakfast featuring a delightful waffle bar. Because let's face it, we appreciate them a Waffle-Lot! 🧇💕

It's Day 2 ✌ of Nurses Week and we celebrated by treating our nursing team and all other departments to some delicious Italian ice!

Today and every day, we express our deepest gratitude to all nurses for their unwavering commitment to patient care. Your compassion, expertise, and resilience make all the difference. Thank you for all you do!

From the bottom of our hearts here at HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital, thank you to all of our nurses for the compassionate, selfless ways you care for our patients daily. Today marks the beginning of National Nurses Week, and we are delighted to join the rest of our community, state and nation in honoring you all week long.

Thank you to Father Gabriel Ghanoum, Director of Spiritual & Palliative Care in HCA Florida Healthcare's East Florida Division, for joining us and facilitating our annual Blessing of the Hands ceremony. The Blessing of the Hands is a universal healthcare tradition, believed to have been started by Florence Nightingale in the 1800s. It is a symbolic gesture to remind nurses their hands are the ones that deliver compassionate care at all times. Father Gabriel went around our hospital and created a sense of peace and joy for all of our nurses.

We wholeheartedly appreciate our nurses genuine, empathetic love for everyone who trusts us with their care. Thank you for making a difference!

On this we are honored to once again to accept a proclamation observing May 6th to May 12th Nurses Week in Okeechobee County! This recognition is dedicated to the outstanding contributions of HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital nurses and nurses nation-wide.

Thank you to the Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners for noting the indispensable role nurses play in enhancing community health. For more information about Raulerson's awards and recognitions visit our website: https://bit.ly/3y6VwkX

Donate blood tomorrow! The Big Red Bus will be at HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital from 10:30am - 4:30pm, located at 1796 US Highway 441 North, Okeechobee, FL 34972.

All donors will receive a $20 eGift card (good to use at stores like Walmart, Target, Amazon, and more) an insulated tote bag, and a wellness checkup including blood pressure, pulse, temperature, iron count, and cholesterol screening. Please bring a form of identification as it is required. Free meal ticket is for Raulerson employees only.