HCA Florida Capital Hospital

25/07/2025

Migraine or stroke? Knowing the difference could save your life.

While migraines affect 1 in 4 U.S. households according to the American Migraine Foundation some symptoms like vision changes or intense head pain can mimic a stroke.

Dr. Keith DeSousa, an interventional neurologist with HCA Florida Healthcare, shares that symptoms can sometimes be misleading and explains why understanding the distinction is critical: https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/healthy-living/blog/migraine-or-stroke-how-to-tell-the-difference.

24/07/2025

NEWS: HCA Florida Capital Hospital Welcomes
New Resident Physicians in Dermatology and Psychiatry

Eight new doctors are beginning their residencies this month at HCA Florida Capital Hospital in two in-demand specialties – dermatology and psychiatry. They are among more than 720 physicians being trained across the state in needed specialties like primary care, surgery, emergency medicine and cardiology through the University of Central Florida – HCA Florida Healthcare Graduate Medical Education Consortium.

“HCA Florida Capital Hospital is proud to partner with the University of Central Florida College of Medicine to continue our residency programs,” said Dale Neely, chief executive officer at HCA Florida Capital Hospital. “Our hospital and medical teams make HCA Florida Capital Hospital an ideal partner for the residents. In addition, attracting and retaining talent is key to expanding access to care and improving the health of our community. We are fortunate to have the strong infrastructure necessary for this program as well as our team of physicians who can train the next generation of caregivers.”

Shiza Idrees, DO, psychiatry resident says, “I chose to go into medicine because I am drawn to helping others and wanted a career where I could make a difference. Medicine combines my interests in science, problem-solving and human connection, allowing me to positively impact people’s lives every day. I liked psychiatry as a specialty because I am passionate about understanding the human mind and helping people navigate mental health challenges. Psychiatry allows me to build meaningful connections with patients and support their healing.”

Doctors must first complete residencies after graduating from medical school before they can practice medicine. During their residencies with HCA Florida Capital Hospital, the new doctors will be training with experienced faculty and learning the latest advances in their specialties. The residencies last four years in psychiatry and three years in dermatology.

“Our goal for our GME programs is, ultimately, increasing access to expert care for our patients throughout Florida,” said Cheryll Albold, Ph.D., vice president of graduate medical education for HCA Healthcare’s North Florida Division.

The UCF-HCA Florida Healthcare GME Consortium is the fastest-growing graduate medical education program in the state, with 44 accredited programs across Florida.

Read more here: https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/locations/capital-hospital/about-us/newsroom/capital-hospital-welcomes-new-resident-physicians-in-dermatology-and-psychiatry

23/07/2025

Knee pain is a common symptom that can be caused by anything from sports injuries to arthritis. You can usually treat hip pain at home with self-care measures. Physical therapy and knee braces can also help relief the pain. But if the pain persists or gets worse, it might be time to see an orthopedic doctor.

According to the CDC, the rate of total knee replacements has increased in both men and women aged 45 and older with more than 790,000 procedures. Following a relatively short period of recovery, patients usually return to a high level of activity.

Check out our free knee health risk assessments to help you get started on a path to recovery and wellness. Start yours here: https://bit.ly/3UoYoS2

21/07/2025

High blood pressure often goes unnoticed, but it shouldn’t. It’s a leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke and other serious health concerns.

Know the signs of a blood pressure medical emergency:
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
• Severe headaches
• Severe abdominal or back pain
• Shortness of breath
• Vision changes, such as blurred or double vision

If your blood pressure hits 180/120 mmHg or higher, seek emergency care immediately, especially if you experience any of these symptoms.

Need guidance? Our experienced, licensed nurses are available for free 24/7 to guide you — no judgment, just support.

Call HCA Florida Healthcare's Consult-A-Nurse® line at 844-70-NURSE.

20/07/2025

HCA Florida Capital Hospital was proud to sponsor Florida Healthy Start's Bowling for Babies event.

Our Women's & Children's Service Line team showed up and do what they do best - care about babies! From our Level II NICU to compassionate, quality, labor and delivery care - we are here to meet the needs of the community.

To learn more abut our services visit: https://bit.ly/4f41aFU

19/07/2025

Colleague Spotlight – Mary Diaz, Environmental Services

Mary Diaz has been a housekeeper with environmental services at HCA Florida Capital Hospital for two years. She says, “I truly feel like it's my second home. Where I am from, I was an early childhood teacher and an education manager. I may not currently be surrounded by children, but I am surrounded by patients who need me. I am not a nurse, but I take my work seriously and I know it directly affects patients. I know the love I give them touches them deep in their hearts and I take great pride leaving their room clean, smelling fresh and a pleasant place to be.”

Leigh Hardwick, assistant manager of environmental services at HCA Florida Capital Hospital says, “We recognize Mary for her unwavering kindness, empathy, and dedication. Mary brings a smile with her every day, making a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients and their families. Her commitment to keeping patient rooms clean goes far beyond her responsibilities—it's the warmth and compassion she brings that truly stand out.”

“More than once, patients and their families have taken the time to express their gratitude for Mary’s gentle and caring presence. She embodies what it means to serve with heart, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of our team, says Leigh.”

Thank you, Mary, for living our mission of: above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.

Learn more about a career in healthcare: https://bit.ly/3IRT72M

18/07/2025

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.

Read how exercise timing can affect your : https://bit.ly/4f0LXW4

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

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/44WRokd). 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/3GJTuvS

16/07/2025

Thank you to State Representative Gallop Franklin for taking time to visit and learn more about HCA Florida Capital Hospital.

From our NICU to Inpatient Rehabilitation Services - we are here to meet the needs of our community.

We show up everyday to live our mission: above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/3IP2lwH

Pictured L-R: Taylor Jones, Dale Neely, Rep. Franklin, Antwan Brooks.

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.

14/07/2025

HCA Florida Capital Hospital has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability.

“HCA Florida Capital Hospital is committed to improving patient care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” said Dale Neely, CEO of HCA Florida Capital Hospital. “Get With The Guidelines makes it easier for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which studies show can help patients recover better. The end goal is to ensure more people in the Big Bend Region and surrounding communities can experience longer, healthier lives.”

Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts.

HCA Florida Capital Hospital also received the American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes™ Honor Roll award.

To learn more visit: https://bit.ly/4lvmaYB

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

Recently, HCA Florida Capital Hospital's CEO, Dale Neely had the pleasure of speaking to the Tallahassee Sunrise Rotary Club.

We appreciate them taking the time to learn about HCA Florida Capital Hospital, our services and our mission to show up for our patients and our community.

To learn more about us visit: https://bit.ly/46ANfEW

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

At HCA Florida Capital Hospital, our comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation program helps those with diminished ability to function as a result of an accident, injury, illness/disease or surgery.

We realize with these changes, our patients may find it difficult to take care of daily tasks. Our goal is to help our patients return to the most independent life possible. The program is individualized, and the goals and treatment plan are developed specifically for each patient.

Learn more about our inpatient rehabilitation services: https://bit.ly/4kxTA7I

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.