Health First actively evaluating temporary and permanent options to increase emergency department capacity
Health First has long planned to create freestanding EDs in Brevard County as the population is projected to grow steadily into the next decade. However, based on the community’s evolving needs, particularly given the recent announcement and swift closure of Orlando Health Rockledge Hospital, Health First will now fast-track efforts to expand access to emergency care across Brevard County. (Health First image)
Here in Brevard County, access to emergency care is not a luxury—it’s a lifeline. As of yesterday morning, Orlando Health’s Rockledge hospital has started diverting all EMS patients, further limiting access to emergency services in Central Brevard. For the families, first responders, and patients affected, this creates immediate and serious challenges.
Health First is taking decisive action.
We are actively evaluating temporary and permanent options to increase emergency department capacity, ensuring we’re doing everything possible to meet the needs of our community.
Last week, we announced plans to build two new free-standing Emergency Departments, including one right here in Rockledge, where thousands of residents have now been left without nearby emergency care. These new facilities are part of our long-term investment in Brevard’s health—and in the people who call this community home.
We recently launched operations for our second First Flight air ambulance, expanding our countywide emergency response capabilities and enabling us to quickly transport patients to the region’s only Trauma Center—Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center.
For more than 30 years, Health First has been here for Brevard—and we’re not going anywhere. We are committed to being a provider you can count on. We’re proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with Brevard Emergency Services, Parrish Medical Center, City of Rockledge, Space Coast Health Foundation, and other local partners to ensure continuity of care during this time. And we will keep you informed every step of the way.
Our next community update will be shared on Tuesday, April 15. To learn more or request additional information, visit hf.org/healthcare-brevard. We thank you for your support, and we look forward to keeping you informed of our progress in helping to meet the community’s needs.
