A new medical facility, the Greg and Lydia White Health and Wellness Center, has opened in West Augustine, Florida, addressing the healthcare needs of an underserved community in St. Johns County. The $8 million center, located on West King Street, marks a significant development in a region that has seen increased focus on revitalization efforts in recent years.
The 14,000-square-foot center is the first of its kind in the area, providing residents with access to preventive care, mental health services, fitness resources, and health education—all regardless of their ability to pay. This initiative is particularly vital as West Augustine has experienced disproportionately high rates of infant mortality, diabetes, strokes, and heart attacks compared to county averages, according to a report by the St. Augustine Record.
Greg White, founder and president of the West Augustine Historical Community Development Corp., was instrumental in bringing this vision to life. He emphasized the community’s longstanding need for accessible healthcare services. “For a long time, West Augustine residents have been clear about what has been missing, and just as clear about what this community deserves,” White stated.
Community leaders echoed this sentiment. Clay Murphy, chairman of the St. Johns County Commission, remarked, “This Health and Wellness Center is a direct response to that truth.”
The center provides various services, including youth counseling through the Youth Crisis Center, fitness programs in collaboration with the First Coast YMCA, and free medical care for eligible adults facilitated by the Wildflower Clinic. Additionally, UF Health St. Johns is expected to open a primary care clinic and a behavioral health resource center on-site in spring 2024.
This facility represents not only a commitment to health but also the community’s refusal to accept high rates of health disparities. Joy Andrews, the County Administrator, described the center as “a representation of hope and action.”
Strong community support has been crucial in realizing this project. Funding partners and benefactors include Cyndi Stevenson, a state House representative, and former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, along with numerous organizations and local businesses.
Future Developments in Health Care
In addition to the new wellness center, Baptist Health has announced plans for an 18-bed inpatient rehabilitation unit at the Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, set to be operated by Brooks Rehabilitation. This facility aims to enhance patient care by providing a seamless transition from acute care to rehabilitation services.
The new rehabilitation unit is expected to open in spring 2027 and will be the first inpatient rehabilitation facility within a Baptist Health hospital. Nicole Thomas, hospital president of Baptist Jacksonville, stated, “This new unit is a powerful demonstration of our commitment to supporting patients throughout their health journey.”
The center will cater to patients recovering from strokes, brain and spinal cord injuries, and other neurological conditions. Doug Baer, president and CEO of Brooks Rehabilitation, highlighted the growing demand for rehabilitation services, stating, “This collaboration brings together the expertise of Baptist Health in acute care services and Brooks Rehabilitation’s focus and expertise in rehabilitation, located in one hospital facility.”
Staffing for the new unit will include board-certified physicians, nurses, and therapists trained in neurorehabilitation care. The facility will feature all private rooms, a spacious rehabilitation gym, and specialized neurological equipment.
Leadership Changes in Health Insurance
In a related development, Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, has appointed Tony Jenkins as market president for Northeast Florida, effective March 1, 2024. Jenkins succeeds Darnell Smith, who is retiring after a 35-year tenure. Jenkins, who has been with Florida Blue since 2001, previously served as market president for Central Florida.
Kari Regar, senior vice president at Florida Blue, expressed confidence in Jenkins’ leadership, noting his extensive healthcare experience and strong community connections. Jenkins will oversee regional operations and community engagement efforts across 17 counties in Northeast Florida.
“I am honored to return to my hometown and lead Florida Blue’s efforts in Northeast Florida,” Jenkins said. He aims to work closely with local partners to address the community’s unique healthcare needs and continue Florida Blue’s legacy of impact.
As these new initiatives unfold, the West Augustine community and Northeast Florida can anticipate enhanced healthcare access and improved outcomes, reflecting a collective commitment to addressing longstanding health disparities.
