HCA Florida Ocala Hospital​

28/07/2025

Responding to growing healthcare needs within Marion County, HCA Florida Healthcare announced today plans to open a new freestanding emergency room serving communities along the State Road 200 corridor and other areas of western Ocala/Marion County. The $15 million 11,000 square-foot, one-story facility is expected to open in 2027 and will be located at the intersection of State Road 200 and Southwest 99th Street Road. This freestanding emergency room will be in the On Top of the World community and will be golf-cart accessible for residents of the area.

“This project broadens HCA Florida Healthcare’s commitment to significantly improve access to high-quality emergency healthcare services for the rapidly growing population of Marion County, especially in the State Road 200 corridor,” said Isaiah Zirkle, chief executive officer of HCA Florida West Marion Hospital. “We are excited to introduce this facility and the vital services it will provide to the families and visitors in this corner of our community.”

HCA Florida Healthcare’s newest freestanding emergency room in the county will be a full-service, fully staffed emergency room. The ER will employ approximately 45 full-time healthcare professionals, including emergency physicians, nurses and other clinicians ready to serve the community with the same capabilities as the emergency departments at HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital. The facility will feature 11 emergency exam rooms, CT scan, general X-ray, on-site laboratory services, and will be capable of caring for patients of all ages, including children.

This latest freestanding emergency room will be the sixth freestanding emergency room that HCA Florida Healthcare has opened in Marion and Sumter counties.

24/07/2025

In an emergency, minutes matter. We have strategically placed our emergency rooms throughout the region, providing seven access points for patients. These full-service emergency rooms are staffed 24/7 by emergency physicians and nurses with pediatric training. We are able to take care of all of your family's emergency medical needs and provide the same competent care at freestanding emergency rooms and our hospital emergency rooms. Fully equipped with lab and radiology services, we stand ready for you and your family.
For a full list of our ER locations and features, visit https://bit.ly/45lkxH2

23/07/2025

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital applaud Chief Operating Officer Lisa Tzanakis for being named one of Ocala Magazine's "40 Under 40."

Each year, Ocala Magazine spotlights 40 high achievers in Marion County who are under age 40 and who merge their professional achievements with a significant, overall positive impact on our community.

Lisa joined HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA West Marion Hospital in September 2024 after two years as COO for HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital in Port Charlotte. While there, she was instrumental in executing plans for $115 million in capital expansion and renovation projects, including adding two new cardiac catheterization labs and two freestanding emergency rooms. Lisa also played a key role in the operational and emergency management response to Hurricane Ian, which required evacuation of the facility and eventual reconstruction of the hospital's third and fourth floors. She helped lead the return of the hospital to full service in less than 100 days.

In Ocala, Lisa helps guide both HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA West Marion Hospital, which together form the largest hospital system in Marion County that features a combined 545 beds as well five freestanding emergency rooms and the region's only trauma center and Comprehensive Stroke Center. In addition, Lisa was recently named to the board of the Public Education Foundation of Marion County.

Congratulations Lisa on being one of Ocala/Marion County's "40 Under 40"!

22/07/2025

Ready for the season?

Before hitting the field, make sure your young athlete is in top shape with a sports physical.
Dr. Duron Lee, a primary care doctor with HCA Florida Healthcare, emphasizes the importance of these exams in identifying potential health concerns that could sideline your child.

From heart health to joint stability, a thorough check-up helps ensure they're game-ready. Here's what you should know before your child's physical: https://bit.ly/4mau0Xr

Don't wait — schedule a sports physical today. Find an HCA Florida Healthcare doctor near you: https://bit.ly/4lHjGXh

21/07/2025

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, which operates the only state-designated Comprehensive Stroke Center in Marion County, recently celebrated performing its 800th thrombectomy.

This state-of-the-art technology enhances the ability of HCA Florida Ocala Hospital to treat acute ischemic strokes, a critical concern considering that stroke is the third-leading cause of death in Florida, according to the Florida Department of Health. This minimally invasive surgical procedure utilizes a catheter to efficiently remove blood clots from blocked arteries.

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital first began performing thrombectomies in March 2018. A significant number of patients who present with severe stroke symptoms leave the hospital with little to no deficits after undergoing a thrombectomy procedure. Before this procedure became available, these patients would have faced a severe disability that would have adversely affected their quality of life.

19/07/2025

Whether you hit the gym at sunrise or go jogging after dark, you might wonder what’s the best time of day to exercise and why. See how exercise timing can affect your : https://bit.ly/3GQJ1yG

19/07/2025

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital is proud to announce a partnership with SMA Healthcare to launch a new residency program to help address a need for psychiatrists in Central Florida. The first class started July 1.

SMA Healthcare's accredited Psychiatric Residency Program is a four-year education and training program for medical school graduates to prepare them to work in the field of psychiatry. SMA Healthcare interviewed and selected the inaugural class of residents. The program allots 10 positions a year for the first four years.

“As a teaching hospital, we provide residencies in a range of in-demand healthcare specialties to help ensure Florida has the doctors it needs to care for our growing population,” said Alan Keesee, chief executive officer, HCA Florida Ocala Hospital. “We look forward to welcoming the new SMA residents to continue their graduate medical education at HCA Florida Ocala Hospital.”

During their training, the residents will work in SMA programs. They will begin with crisis services in Marion and Volusia counties and complete rotations in programs across SMA’s six-county region, including in neurology and family medicine with HCA Florida Ocala Hospital.

18/07/2025

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital is excited to announce that its new portable CT scanner is going live — an effort several years in the making.

This cutting-edge technology allows patients to receive head CT scans without having to be transported from their rooms. While the unit's mobility will enhance treatment of patients throughout the hospital, it will be particularly helpful with treating patients in the ICU.

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital now owns and utilizes one of only two such devices in the state of Florida.

18/07/2025

"Summer should be about making memories, not medical emergencies,” said Dr. Jason Grabert, emergency room medical director at HCA Florida Citrus Hospital. “By staying informed and taking a few simple precautions, you can safely enjoy all that our community has to offer.”

Whether you are boating, hiking, or grilling with family and friends, a few smart choices can help you avoid medical emergencies.
Dr. Jason Grabert shares tips on how to stay safe in the heat, on the trails, and in the water: https://bit.ly/4kNOKDs.

17/07/2025

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital’s Patient Care Technician (PCT) Council has donated $1,000 to the Ronald McDonald House of Gainesville to assist families of ill or injured children who may not have the resources to deal with an extended hospital stay.

The proceeds were generated by a one-day bake sale held recently at HCA Florida Ocala Hospital. According to Stevie Doyle, chief executive officer of Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida, the donation is the equivalent of covering the cost of a family’s stay at Ronald McDonald House for 10 nights.

Doyle noted that families from Marion County spend an average of 3,200 nights at the facility annually.

“This gift will make a meaningful difference for the families staying with us, providing comfort, care, and a sense of stability during some of the hardest days of their lives. Support like this ensures we can continue to keep families close to their children receiving medical care,” said Doyle. “We are incredibly grateful to the PCT Council at HCA Florida Ocala Hospital for their generous support of our mission. Their dedication to giving back and raising these funds speaks volumes about their commitment to the families we serve at Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida."

Jennifer Teuton, clinical director of the Medical/Surgical Unit at HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and chairwoman of the PCT Council, commented, “The PCT Council believes in giving back to the community that supports us every day. We wanted to choose a cause that spoke to our hearts that also allowed us to make a real difference in people’s lives. Supporting a meaningful initiative, such as Ronald McDonald House, brings us closer as a team and reminds us why we chose healthcare—to care, to serve, and to uplift others, both inside and outside the hospital.”

17/07/2025

Meet Jessica. She’s a cancer survivor and her daughter has Type 1 diabetes. They’re among millions of Americans who are about to face a major increase in health insurance costs.

Enhanced Premium Tax Credits (EPTCs) are currently helping 24 million people – including our patients – afford high-quality healthcare coverage through the insurance Marketplace (https://bit.ly/4lT0oO6). Americans who purchase insurance on their own and rely on the tax credit are now facing skyrocketing costs if Congress allows the credit to expire at the end of 2025, putting at risk the health of children like Jessica’s daughter.

“We were living a perfectly normal life, and we suddenly had a child that had a chronic illness,” said Jessica. “We’re not wealthy. Money can get tight…we need Congress to take action now. It’s vital for us.”

Learn how you can help protect access to care at https://bit.ly/4obLC7l

16/07/2025

Arthritis is common; according to the CDC, about 53 million U.S. adults have arthritis. However, there are things you can do to protect your joints and feel better.

From staying active and eating anti-inflammatory foods to stretching key muscles and reducing stress, small choices can make a big difference.

Read our blog to discover how you can take control of your joint health at any age: https://bit.ly/3TJd8uM.

15/07/2025

One in eight people, and one in six children, in North Florida live in households that may be food insecure, which means not having enough nutritious food to have an active, healthy life.

At HCA Florida Healthcare we care committed to to fighting food insecurity. Recently, HCA Florida Capital Hospital presented a $15,000 donation to Second Harvest of the Big Bend to help provide food to families experiencing hunger, bringing the total to $23,000 since 2023.

The financial support is part of a broader effort that has included more than 250 colleagues from HCA Florida Healthcare volunteering at the Second Harvest of the Big Bend over the past two years to help sort and pack food donations.

“We’re honored to support Second Harvest with a financial gift, as well as the service of our dedicated volunteers throughout the year,” said Dale Neely, chief executive officer, HCA Florida Capital Hospital.

At HCA Florida Healthcare, we commit every day to creating healthier tomorrows — dedicating our time, expertise and resources to help others. Learn more about HCA Florida Healthcare's dedication to meeting the needs of our communities: https://bit.ly/44U3xGN.

15/07/2025

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital on July 14 began providing critical care transport services to critically ill patients outside Marion County.

The hospitals’ Interfacility Transport (IFT) fleet, which recently added a new critical care vehicle and launched a new exterior design, will now bring patients needing more intensive care to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital or HCA Florida West Marion Hospital from HCA Florida Trailwinds Village Emergency in The Villages and HCA Florida Putnam Hospital in Palatka. Marion County Fire Rescue continues to manage transportation for critical care patients within Marion County.

The hospitals’ IFT fleet also added new equipment to augment its expanded mission. That includes two new portable ventilators that have the same capability as those found in a hospital ICU; two new automated chest-compression devices for CPR; four new video laryngoscopes; and new critical care IV pumps. Two of the ambulance crews will feature paramedic supervisors who have additional training in critical transport, advanced airway management and ventilation, high-risk drug administration, and IV drip management.

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital operate the busiest transport fleet within HCA Healthcare nationally, carrying more than 1,000 patients each month on average, according to EMS Transport Manager Barry Cannon.

14/07/2025

Across our larger HCA Healthcare network, we’re here to provide the care you need.

➡️ Emergency rooms: https://bit.ly/451Txw7
➡️ Doctor’s appointments: https://bit.ly/3IpVFVP

14/07/2025

Vomiting and diarrhea are common in children — but when should you be concerned? While food poisoning, stomach flu and other illnesses can cause these symptoms, some cases require urgent medical care.

Seek emergency care if vomiting is accompanied by:
- High fever (above 100.4°F for infants under 3 months, above 102.2°F for older babies and children)
- Repetitive vomiting
- No urination or wet diapers
- Lethargy or unusual drowsiness
- Inconsolable crying
- Swelling in the face, lips, or throat

If you’re unsure whether your child needs medical attention, our experienced, licensed nurses are available for free 24/7 to help guide you on the next steps for care. Call HCA Florida Healthcare's Consult-A-Nurse® line at 844-70-NURSE (844-706-8773).

11/07/2025

11/07/2025

The dreaded – it can happen even when you take precautions to protect your skin. Learn what not to do for a sunburn, how to find soothing relief and more: https://bit.ly/4lnToc8.

Still have questions? Get free advice you can trust directly from experienced, licensed nurses at HCA Florida Healthcare's Consult-A-Nurse® line. Call (844) 70-NURSE (844-706-8773) at any time for answers, advice and support.

10/07/2025

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the arms or legs. It’s easy to mistake PAD for other conditions like hip arthritis or spinal stenosis, which means often goes undiagnosed. Many people with PAD don’t experience symptoms at all. That’s why awareness of risk factors – such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking – is crucial for screening.

Understanding the early warning signs is the first step toward timely intervention and better quality of life. In most cases, lifestyle changes, exercise and medications are enough to slow the progression or even reverse the symptoms of PAD, so talk to your doctor if you think you may be at risk.

As the state’s largest cardiovascular network, we make it easy for our patients to connect to heart, lung and vascular specialists close to home. Find a vascular specialist close to home: https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/specialties/cardiology/vascular-disease.

09/07/2025

Wondering what to expect with AFib ablation?

Learn how this procedure can help restore a regular heartbeat and improve your quality of life. From preparation to recovery, we walk you through each step.

Read the full blog at https://bit.ly/4nAMdz3.

08/07/2025

What Scott Woodward thought was just intense heartburn turned out to be something far more serious.

After a visit to the nearest HCA Florida Capital Hospital, he began to feel better and wanted to go home, but the team of medical experts knew Scott needed additional, comprehensive cardiovascular care.

Their quick action saved his life.

At HCA Florida Healthcare, we are part of a statewide network that allows us to deliver expert, coordinated care when and where it’s needed most. It’s just one of the many ways we are improving more lives in more ways.

Watch Scott’s full story below. Concerned about your heart health? Call 833-544-5031 to connect with a cardiologist in the HCA Florida Healthcare network.

07/07/2025

Unsure if you or a loved one has a UTI? Our free, 24/7 Consult-A-Nurse® line connects you with experienced nurses for guidance. Call 844-70-NURSE for answers and peace of mind.

Discover how to identify the early signs of UTIs and take preventive measures to help keep your elderly loved ones safe and healthy at https://bit.ly/4eHIyeQ.

04/07/2025

Wishing you a happy ! Please stay safe and celebrate responsibly.

03/07/2025

Small businesses play an important role as job creators and are a pillar in communities nationwide. More than 4 million small business owners purchase healthcare coverage on their own and rely on Enhanced Premium Tax Credits (EPTCs) to keep premiums affordable.

But unless Congress acts soon, these tax credits will expire at the end of 2025. Many small businesses may face increased costs or be forced to reduce or eliminate employee health coverage.

Find out how you can help protect access to care : https://bit.ly/40CrhO1.