A new health initiative has launched in West Augustine, an underserved area of St. Johns County, with the opening of the **$8 million Greg and Lydia White Health and Wellness Center**. This facility stands as the first of its kind in the community, aiming to provide residents with comprehensive preventive care, mental health services, fitness resources, and health education, irrespective of their financial situation.
The **14,000-square-foot center** on West King Street was developed by **Greg White**, founder and president of the West Augustine Historical Community Development Corporation. White highlighted that the community suffers from higher rates of infant mortality, diabetes, strokes, and mental health issues compared to county averages. In his words, “For a long time, West Augustine residents have been clear about what has been missing, and just as clear about what this community deserves.”
Community Impact and Services Offered
The center features a range of services designed to address the specific health needs of the community. It includes youth counseling provided by the **Youth Crisis Center**, wellness programs offered through the **First Coast YMCA**, and free medical care for eligible adults through the **Wildflower Clinic**. Additionally, **UF Health St. Johns** plans to open a primary care clinic and behavioral health resource center at the site in the upcoming spring.
County officials view this center as a beacon of hope and a step toward better health outcomes. **County Administrator Joy Andrews** stated, “It represents action. It represents a community refusing to accept high infant mortality, limited access to care, or the absence of wraparound wellness services as ‘just the way things are.’”
Significant support for the project came from various partners and benefactors, including state House Representative **Cyndi Stevenson**, former Florida House Speaker **Paul Renner**, and organizations such as **Wells Fargo**, **EPIC Behavioral Healthcare**, and the **Mayernick Group**.
Future Developments in Local Healthcare
In a related development, **Baptist Health** has announced plans to construct an **18-bed inpatient rehabilitation unit** at **Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville**, which will be managed by **Brooks Rehabilitation**. This facility, set to open in **spring 2027**, aims to facilitate a seamless transition for patients recovering from serious health conditions, including strokes and neurological injuries.
According to **Nicole Thomas**, president of Baptist Jacksonville, “This new unit is a powerful demonstration of our commitment to supporting patients throughout their health journey.” The center is designed to enhance patient outcomes by providing specialized care within the same facility.
The partnership between Baptist Health and Brooks Rehabilitation is expected to address the increasing demand for rehabilitation services due to a growing and aging population. **Doug Baer**, president and CEO of Brooks Rehabilitation, emphasized that the collaboration brings together the strengths of both organizations to create a comprehensive care environment.
In another notable shift within the healthcare landscape, **Florida Blue**, the leading health insurer in Florida, has appointed **Tony Jenkins** as the new market president for Northeast Florida, effective **March 1, 2024**. Jenkins, who joins from Central Florida where he served as market president for 20 years, will oversee operations for 17 counties.
“I am honored to return to my hometown and lead Florida Blue’s efforts in Northeast Florida,” Jenkins remarked, expressing eagerness to engage with local partners to meet the community’s healthcare needs.
As these developments unfold, the health and wellness landscape in Northeast Florida continues to evolve, promising enhanced services and support for the communities in need.
