Health

Quattlebaum to lead AdventHealth Wesley Chapel

WESLEY CHAPEL – Ryan Quattlebaum will become president and CEO of AdventHealth Wesley Chapel on Dec. 29. He replaces Erik Wangsness who was recently named as the president and CEO of AdventHealth Tampa. 

“Ryan is a passionate leader, and it is a joy to see him grow and step into this new role,” said Jennifer Wandersleben, who provides market leadership for Hardee, Highlands, Pasco, Pinellas and Polk counties.

Since 2022, Quattlebaum has served as president and CEO for AdventHealth North Pinellas in Tarpon Springs. “I’m honored to return to AdventHealth Wesley Chapel and work with dedicated care teams, physicians and leaders who are committed to providing whole-person care,” Quattlebaum said. “As I step into this new role, I look forward to building and strengthening relationships in our Wesley Chapel facility and surrounding community to expand our faith-based care and services.”

 

AdventHealth seeks to buy Florida health care facilities  

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS – AdventHealth has signed an agreement to purchase ShorePoint Health Port Charlotte and certain assets of ShorePoint Health Punta Gorda from affiliates of Community Health Systems Inc.

The transaction includes related businesses, including physician clinic operations, outpatient services and ShorePoint Health Emergency Department in Cape Coral.  

“We are excited about the opportunity to bring whole-person care to these communities and look forward to partnering with the dedicated team members and physicians to meet the growing health care needs of Southwest Florida,” said Terry Shaw, president/CEO for AdventHealth.  

The transaction is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of next year. It is subject to standard regulatory approvals.  

 

AdventHealth Heart of Florida honored for heart failure treatment

DAVENPORT – The American College of Cardiology has recognized AdventHealth Heart of Florida for its demonstrated expertise and commitment in treating patients with heart failure. AdventHealth Heart of Florida was awarded Heart Failure Accreditation in October based on an onsite review of the staff’s ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients with heart failure through pre-hospital care, early stabilization, acute care, transitional care, clinical quality measures and more.

Hospitals that employ an evidence-based, protocol-driven and systematic approach to managing heart failure reduce time to treatment and are able to identify and predict high-risk patients while also reducing length-of-stay and hospital readmissions.

 

DOH-Pasco offers tips regarding decorations 

PASCO COUNTY – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County  

encourages residents and visitors to enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season. 

DOH-Pasco advises Floridians to follow these tips to ensure their safety regarding decorations. 

• Avoid placing poisonous plants in areas accessible to children and pets. Holly berries, mistletoe, amaryllis and English ivy are a few poisonous plants that are popular around the holidays.
• Secure and cover extension cords to prevent trips and falls.
• Place candles where they cannot be knocked over. If a fire occurs, do not pour water on the candle. Have a fire extinguisher nearby to use instead.
• Be cautious when using spray-on artificial snow. Inhalation can cause irritation to the lungs.
• Keep fireworks away from people, houses and flammable material. Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

 

Health officials issue warning about Blanton Lake

PASCO COUNTY – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County issued a Health

Alert on Nov. 22 for the presence of harmful blue-green algal toxins in Blanton Lake. 

This is in response to a water sample taken on Nov. 19. 

The department advised people not to drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom. It also advised people to wash skin and clothing with soap and water if they had contact with algae or discolored or smelly water.

 

Leapfrog touts St. Joseph’s Hospital-North

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz earned a top grade for the fifth consecutive time in ratings from a national not-for-profit organization that promotes patient safety. 

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North received an A grade in the Leapfrog Group’s Fall 2024 Hospital Safety Grades released Nov. 15. St. Joseph’s Hospital-North also earned A in grades dating back to the fall 2022 grades. 

The Leapfrog Group collects and analyzes data about infections, accidents, injuries and errors at nearly 3,000 general hospitals.

“Five consecutive A grades is evidence that patient safety is ingrained in our culture,” said Sara Dodds, St. Joseph’s Hospital-North president. “Patient safety is more than a priority. It is a mission and drives us in patient care.”

Other BayCare hospitals earning an A were Mease Countryside Hospital in Safety Harbor, Mease Dunedin Hospital, Morton Plant Hospital in Clearwater, Morton Plant North Bay Hospital in New Port Richey, St. Anthony’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa, St. Joseph’s Hospital-South in Riverview and Winter Haven Hospital.

 

Pasco County hospitals earn top grades

PASCO COUNTY – AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, AdventHealth Dade City and AdventHealth Zephyrhills have once again earned an A grade from The Leapfrog Group.

The nonprofit watchdog assigns grades to general hospitals based on over 30 performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent them.

“Pasco County is rapidly growing and the A Safety Grade received by our AdventHealth hospitals from The Leapfrog Group shows we have been and will continue to be a hospital system our Pasco County community can count on,” said Erik Wangsness, president and CEO of AdventHealth Wesley Chapel. “This grade helps our neighbors feel confident walking in our doors that they will receive the highest standard of whole-person health care.”

Grades are updated twice annually, in the fall and spring. 

“We have worked tirelessly to implement systems that improve and maintain the highest level of patient safety, in our mission to Extend the Healing Ministry of Christ,” said Gwen Alonso, chief nursing officer for AdventHealth Dade City and AdventHealth Zephyrhills. 

 

Hospital hosting craft show

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North invites the community to its sixth annual Craft Show. 

Vendors will be displaying and selling arts, crafts and other merchandise and gift items, both holiday-themed and non-holiday themed. 

The event takes place from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dec. 6 in St. Joseph’s Hospital-North’s atrium and garden classrooms. St. Joseph’s Hospital-North is located at 4211 Van Dyke Road.

Contact Jennifer Clark at 813-443-7980 or for more details about the show.

 

Finks donate $5M to St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital

TAMPA – Scott and Kathy Fink, a Tampa family with ties across Tampa Bay, have given $5 million to advance children’s health care in West Central Florida, according to the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation.

The gift will support the construction of a new children’s hospital to open in 2030, which will be named Pagidipati Children’s Hospital at St. Joseph’s.

“As philanthropists, my wife and I believe there’s simply no greater impact we can make than to invest in a child’s life.” Scott said. “It is an investment in family, community and an entire region.”

As parents of five children, Scott and Kathy have a personal connection to the hospital. Their youngest son, David, became a regular patient at 8 years old, due to a Crohn’s disease diagnosis.

 

 

 

Wangsness to lead AdventHealth Tampa

TAMPA – Erik Wangsness has been named president and CEO of AdventHealth Tampa, effective Dec. 15. 

Wangsness most recently served as president/CEO of AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, where he guided the development of its Graduate Medical Education program and provided oversight of an expansion project.

“I am excited and honored for the opportunity to serve AdventHealth Tampa and the surrounding community, working alongside the incredible leaders, physicians and team members to provide whole-person care,” Wangsness said. “Together, we will make a profound difference in the lives of those we serve.”

He will report to David Otatti, president and CEO of AdventHealth’s West Florida Division.

“Erik is a consummate servant leader who I believe will continue to enhance our quality of care, expanding access to services and building on the strong foundation established by the team at AdventHealth Tampa,” Ottati said. 

Wangsness serves on the board of the Pasco Economic Development Council.

 

Registration open for brunch

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Alliance for Healthy Communities is accepting registration for its annual brunch.

The event, which will include a raffle and silent auction, will start at 10 a.m. Dec. 5 at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 9426 Little Road. 

Money raised through the event will benefit community-focused initiatives. 

On the web: empoweredcommunities.org

 

New hospital welcomes first baby 

RIVERVIEW, Fla. (October 24, 2024) – AdventHealth Riverview welcomed its first baby just hours after opening Oct. 23.

Baby Melanie, the youngest of four sisters, was born to Gabrielle Jimenez of South Hillsborough County. Melanie was born at 3:12 p.m. She measured 19 3/4 inches long and weighed 6 pounds, 7 ounces.

Melanie’s arrival marks a special moment in the hospital’s history as she was born on the very first day of operations.

“It was a good experience with amazing nurses who were super helpful,” Jimenez said. “The unit was quiet, which helped with our experience.”

AdventHealth Riverview features a secure mother and baby unit equipped with eight labor and delivery rooms and two dedicated c-section rooms.

 

Veterans can get free dental care in Stars, Stripes and Smiles 

NEW PORT RICHEY – Dentists have volunteered to provide urgent dental care at no cost to 75 military veterans living in Pasco County who have been suffering with untreated dental pain and infection.

The West Pasco Dental Association, Office of Congressman Gus Bilirakis and Pasco-Hernando State College are partnering on the Stars, Stripes and Smiles event Nov. 8 in New Port Richey.

“These heroes deserve a system of care to ensure their oral health care needs are met,” said Dr. Zacharias Kalarickal of the West Pasco Dental Association. “Until that can become a reality, it is our professional privilege to serve this special segment of our community.”

Currently, dental care through the VA is limited to those who are 100% disabled or have a direct service-connected injury impacting their oral health. 

“Our veterans have sacrificed so much in defense of our freedom and they deserve access to high quality health care,” Bilirakis said. “I am continuing to push a bill that will expand veterans’ access to dental care; however, I am very grateful for the generosity of the dentists from the West Pasco Dental Association who are not waiting for a change in law.”

 

DOH-Pasco issues mosquito-borne illness advisory

PASCO COUNTY – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County informed residents of confirmed human cases of locally acquired Dengue. 

DOH-Pasco reminds the community to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by taking basic precautions.

The department continues to conduct statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus infections, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya and dengue. Residents are encouraged to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s site.

AdventHealth opens latest hospital

RIVERVIEW – On Oct. 23, AdventHealth opened a new 82-bed hospital Oct. 23 at 9330 US-301.

The 282,000-square-foot AdventHealth Riverview offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, cardiology, labor and delivery, bariatrics, neurosurgery, orthopedics and spine surgery. 

The hospital is located near Hillsborough County Fire Station 16, ensuring faster response times for trauma, stroke and cardiac events. The site allows for up to 202 beds as the community grows. 

In addition to health care services, the hospital will serve as a major economic driver, creating more than 2,000 new jobs in the area. 

The on-site cafeteria, open to the public, includes a full-service pizza oven from Italy and a cafe run by local Tampa-based Buddy Brew Coffee, with mobile ordering available.

Robins & Morton, the construction firm behind the hospital’s build, has played a key role in the project’s completion.

 

Spa offers specials for linemen, first responders 

WESLEY CHAPEL – LIVE Hydration Spa announced special offers aimed at both helping those affected by hurricanes and giving back to the first responders and linemen on the front lines.

LIVE Hydration Spa, Wesley Chapel is a wellness center offering a range of IV hydration therapies, vitamin infusions and rejuvenation services. 

The spa is offering 30% off any premium treatment with a donation of gently used or new clothing (IV hydration, vitamin infusions and other wellness services). These donations will be distributed to those in need as part of hurricane relief efforts.

“We want to ensure that our community can recover and feel their best during this challenging time,” said Holly Worsham, owner of LIVE Hydration Spa, Wesley Chapel. “This is a small way we can give back while helping our clients boost their wellness and recovery.”

In addition to the offer, all linemen and first responders  (must present ID or badge) can receive a free B12 injection as a token of appreciation for restoring power, keeping our streets safe and supporting relief efforts. 

The offer is valid through Oct 31.

Walk-ins are welcome but appointments are recommended.

Call 813-508-7844 for details.

 

Health officials issue blue-green algae bloom alert for Blanton Lake

PASCO COUNTY – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County has issued a health alert for the presence of harmful blue-green algal toxins in Blanton Lake. This is in response to a water sample taken on Oct. 16. 

The public should exercise caution in and around Blanton Lake.

Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions:

• Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom.
• Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have contact with algae or discolored or smelly water.
• Keep pets away from the area. Pets and livestock should have a different source of water when algae blooms are present.
• Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms. Boiling the water will not eliminate the toxins.
• Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe. Rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts and cook fish well.
• Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms.

 

AdventHealth Wauchula delivers supplies to families 

WAUCHULA – In response to the devastation left by Hurricane Milton, AdventHealth Wauchula teamed up with Florida Farm Share and the Wauchula Seventh-Day Adventist Church to distribute food, water and supplies to more than 500 families in Hardee County.  

Hundreds of cars lined up at the Wauchula Seventh-day Adventist church on Carlton Street as volunteers from the hospital and the community provided resources to help their recovery.

Florida Farm Share provided a semi-truck with 24 pallets of 500 boxes of food and 500 boxes of toiletries that volunteers gave out. Each family was given a box of food, a bag of fresh bananas and apples, bottled water, toiletries, diapers and dog food.

“It is very important for all of us to work together and help take care of one another, especially after devastating events like Hurricane Milton,” said Christen Johnson, AdventHealth Wauchula vice president and administrator. 

 

Hurricane did not disrupt patient care 

TAMPA – Multiple hospitals in the AdventHealth West Florida Division, including AdventHealth Carrollwood and AdventHealth Tampa, experienced minor water intrusion during Hurricane Milton that affected some areas of the facilities.

No patient care was affected and no injuries were reported.

All AdventHealth hospitals and freestanding emergency departments in the Tampa Bay Area, with the exception of AdventHealth North Pinellas, were open and accepting patients.

“We are grateful to everyone who worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of our patients and maintain hospital operations,” said David Ottati, president and CEO of the AdventHealth West Florida Division. “Their commitment exemplifies the strength of our AdventHealth family.”

 

AdventHealth North Pinellas reopens following hurricane 

TARPON SPRINGS – AdventHealth North Pinellas reopened Oct. 11 to serve patients and the community, following a temporary closure of the hospital due to Hurricane Milton. 

The hospital evacuated 40 patients to nearby AdventHealth facilities, ensuring their safety during Hurricane Milton. Its emergency department remained open throughout the storm.

“Our top priority has always been the safety and well-being of our patients and team members,” said Ryan Quattlebaum, president and CEO of AdventHealth North Pinellas. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of our team and the collaboration with state and local partners, we are ready to serve the region and stand ready to support the health care needs of patients as recovery efforts from Hurricane Milton continue.”

 

VITAS Healthcare expands to Pasco County

PASCO COUNTY – Families in Pasco County can now choose VITAS Healthcare for high-quality hospice services. 

This expansion meets the growing demand for compassionate hospice care in the Northern Tampa Bay area.

“At VITAS, we are committed to ensuring that every patient receives the best care possible – individualized care tailored to their values that allows them to live with dignity,” said Jalisha Wynn, general manager for VITAS. “By expanding into Pasco County, we are providing families with a premier choice, backed by decades of expertise and compassion.

VITAS specializes in delivering patient-centered physical, emotional and spiritual care wherever patients reside, whether in their homes, nursing homes, assisted living communities or inpatient settings. Care teams help seriously ill patients focus on comfort and quality of life during their final stages of an advanced illness.

VITAS also offers services designed to enhance the quality of life for patients and their families. These services include specialized respiratory therapy, veteran-specific care, pet visits and Memory Bears, which are handcrafted keepsakes made from a loved one’s clothing.

On the web: VITAS.com

 

Mosquito Control advises of more dengue cases 

PASCO COUNTY – The Pasco County Mosquito Control District has ramped up efforts in response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton and the emergence of more dengue virus cases. 

In response to this public health concern, the Pasco County Mosquito Control District is implementing increased surveillance and control measures in the affected area to reduce the risk and prevent further transmission of the virus.

Key activities include:

• Utilizing both helicopter and truck-mounted treatments to target mosquito larvae and reduce populations before they can reach adulthood.
• Working to mitigate areas of debris left in the wake of Hurricane Helene to prevent further mosquito infestation.
• Deploying resources to hard-to-reach areas affected by unprecedented riverine flooding.
• Educating citizens to protect themselves from mosquitoes by draining standing water, covering skin with clothing or repellent, and covering doors and windows.

Contact the district at 727-376-4568 or visit PascoMosquito.org for details.

 

SHINE volunteers answer questions about Medicare

PASCO COUNTY – Specially trained volunteers can assist you with your Medicare, Medicaid and health insurance questions by providing one-on-one counseling and information.

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a free program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco & Pinellas. SHINE services are free, unbiased and confidential. 

SHINE Counselors can be reached by calling 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111.

Upcoming programs are as follows: 

• Medicare Basics:  Nov. 5 at 10:30 a.m. at the Centennial Park Library, 5740 Moog Road, Holiday. Call 727- 834-3204 for details. 
• Medicare Basics: Nov. 7 at 10 a.m. at the New Port Richey Library, 5939 Main St., New Port Richey. Call 727-853-1279 for details. 
• Medicare Basics: Nov. 7 at 10 a.m. at the Genesis Center MOW, 38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills. One-hour appointments will be available following the presentation by calling 813-782-7859.
• Medicare Basics: Nov. 16 at 10 a.m. at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes.  Call 813-929-1214 for details. 
• Medicare 101: Nov. 21st at 10:30 a.m. at the New River Library, 34043 FL 54, Wesley Chapel. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 
• Medicare Basics: Nov. 27 at 11 a.m. at Regency Park Library, 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 
• Medicare Basics: Nov. 28 at noon at the Hugh Embry Library, 14215 4th St., Dade City. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

 

Hospital offers breastfeeding support group

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North offers a free in-person breastfeeding support group and class during November. 

Both events are held in classrooms at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, 4211 Van Dyke Road.

• Breastfeeding Support Group: The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. Offered 12:30 to 2 p.m. Nov. 14. 
• Understanding Breastfeeding: Provides information to the expectant mom and her support person about breastfeeding basics, skin-to-skin contact, tips for returning to work and when to call a health care provider or lactation consultant. Offered 3 to 6 p.m. Nov. 14.

Register in advance for the free events by visiting BayCareEvents.org or calling 855-314-8352. 

 

Urgent cares help with health care needs

TAMPA – Dr. Timothy Hendrix, medical director for AdventHealth Centra Care, said urgent care locations across the Tampa area can see an increase in patients with minor injuries suffered during storm clean up and surveying properties for possible damage.

“Historically after a hurricane, it’s going to be puncture wounds, people stepping on nails, roofing nails, debris, cuts and abrasion, all those types of things we would commonly see in an urgent care we’re going to see more of during and after a hurricane.” Hendrix said.

These are the Centra Care and PC+ at Walgreens locations that were open, as of Oct. 17, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.: 

Adventhealth Centra Care

• AdventHealth Centra Care Carrollwood, 4001 West Linebaugh Ave., Tampa.
• AdventHealth Centra Care Ocala, 3708 S.W. College Road, Ocala.
• AdventHealth Centra Care Temple Terrace, 5802 E. Fowler Ave., Temple Terrace.
• AdventHealth Centra Care Trinity, 11826 State Road 54, Odessa.
• AdventHealth Centra Care Wesley Chapel, 1127 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Wesley Chapel.

Adventhealth PC+ at Walgreens

• Land O Lakes, 22829 State Road 54, Land O’ Lakes.
• Wesley Chapel, 28115 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Wesley Chapel.
• Spring Hill, 11180 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill.
• Bruce B Downs, 17511 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa.

 

AdventHealth North Pinellas evacuates ahead of storm

TARPON SPRINGS  – AdventHealth North Pinellas decided to evacuate the hospital as Hurricane Milton approached due to the hospital’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and potential impacts from the storm. 

Staff began transferring 40 patients to other AdventHealth facilities around 5 p.m. Oct. 7.

“We have been in constant communication with state and local emergency management teams throughout our preparation for the storm,” said Ryan Quattlebaum, president and CEO of AdventHealth North Pinellas. “Given Milton’s projected impact, we are evacuating out of an abundance of caution.”
The AdventHealth Palm Harbor ER, located at 34106 US Hwy 19 N. in Palm Harbor, remained open throughout the storm to serve the community’s emergency needs.

AdventHealth gives out pink light bulbs

TAMPA – AdventHealth has been giving away 6,000 pink light bulbs across seven counties, including Hillsborough and Pasco throughout October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness.

AdventHealth will distribute the pink bulbs at a series of “Pink Out” events for the #PinkPorchFL initiative throughout October to encourage women to prioritize breast cancer screenings and early detection.

While picking up their pink light bulb, women ages 40 and older are encouraged to schedule a mammogram at any AdventHealth Care Pavilion location. For women without insurance coverage, AdventHealth offers mammograms for $99.

Visit ScheduleYourMammoToday.com to learn more.

Dr. Rachel Burke, a breast cancer diagnostic radiologist with the Kay Meyer Breast Center at AdventHealth Tampa, says it’s important for women to have regular screenings and speak to their health care provider regarding their family history and breast cancer risk.

“Every 14 seconds, somewhere in the world, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer,” Burke said. “Mammograms and health checks are not just appointments; they’re opportunities to safeguard your future.”

 

Hurricane delays grand openings

RUSKIN –Hurricane Milton delayed health-related openings in the area. 

• Elite DNA Behavioral Health, a comprehensive behavioral and mental health service provider, postponed an Oct. 8   ribbon cutting for its new location in Ruskin. The practice offers a range of in-person and virtual mental and behavioral health services, including psychiatry, therapy and medication management. 
• Saint Leo University postponed the Oct. 10 grand opening celebration of its new nursing floor. The floor will be home to the Bachelor of Science in nursing program.

 

AdventHealth provided virtual care during storm

TAMPA – AdventHealth Centra Care offered free virtual urgent care for the state of Florida from Oct. 9 to 10.

AdventHealth medical professionals were available to provide virtual consultations and recommended treatment for urgent, non-life-threatening medical needs via the AdventHealth app. 

People could bypass payment pages with the code MILTON.

Visit AdventHealthVideoVisits.com for details. 

 

Hotline helps Alzheimer’s caregivers

NEW  YORK – The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America reminded families in areas affected by hurricanes who are caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related illnesses that it AFA Helpline is available for assistance, answers and support. 

FA’s Helpline is staffed seven days a week by licensed social workers specifically trained in dementia care. They can address questions such as:

• How do I answer questions about the hurricane and its consequences?
• How can I keep my loved one feeling safe?
• How do I help them cope with disorientation, stress or anxiety?
• What can I do to help prevent or reduce agitation?
• How do I help my loved one handle disruptions to their daily routine?
• How do I acclimate my loved one to new surroundings after evacuating?

Call 866-232-8484, text 646-586-5283 or web chat at www.alzfdn.org for details.

 

DOH-Pasco issues alert about beaches, pools

Pasco County – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County advised the public not to enter the water following Hurricane Milton due to the increased risk of water-borne illness.

Heavy winds and rain can negatively impact coastal waters. Excessive amounts of rain and storm surge can increase the levels of harmful bacteria in public beaches. The sources of the bacteria can vary and include failing septic systems, sewer line breaks, overflowing manholes, and wildlife.

Debris brought onto beaches by storm surge and floodwaters can be hazardous and may carry harmful bacteria. No one should handle debris without proper safety equipment.

Residents and visitors should avoid swimming in coastal waters until bacterial testing shows an acceptable level in accordance with state guidelines. Test results can be accessed at FloridaHealth.gov/HealthyBeaches.

Residents and visitors should avoid swimming in any pool until it has been properly cleaned and is fully functional. Public swimming pools need to be approved for opening by DOH-Pasco. 

 

DOH-Pasco offers mold cleanup tips

PASCO COUNTY – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County suggests these post-storm tips for mold cleanup:

• Any items soaked with flood waters that can’t be cleaned or dried completely within 24 to 48 hours should be disposed of.
• Open all doors and windows when removing wet or moldy items to avoid exposure.
• Scrub wet surfaces with detergent and water to remove visible mold. 
• Remove visible mold before painting or caulking.
• Never mix bleach with other cleansers or ammonia to avoid health issues.

Visit pasco.floridahealth.gov/ for more tips. 

 

DOH-Pasco offers flood safety tips

PASCO COUNTY – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County urges residents to be aware of the health risks associated with flooding. 

Skin contact with flood waters does not, by itself, pose a serious health risk. However, health hazards are a concern when waters are or become contaminated with bacteria or contain dangerous debris.

DOH-Pasco recommends the following to prevent illness or injury from flood waters:

• Basic hygiene is critical. If you are under a boil water notice, use commercially bottled water for mixing baby formula. Wash hands with soap and either disinfected or boiled and cooled water, especially before preparing or eating food, after toilet use, after handling a soiled diaper, after participating in flood cleanup activities and after handling objects contaminated with flood water or sewage.
• Avoid eating or drinking anything that has been contaminated with flood waters. 
• Avoid contact with flood waters, especially if you have open cuts or sores.
• If you have any open cuts or sores and come in contact with flood waters, wash the area well with soap to prevent infection. If a wound develops redness, swelling, or drainage, seek immediate medical attention.
• Residents who sustain lacerations or puncture wounds are encouraged to contact their primary health care provider to make sure they are current on their tetanus vaccine and possibly get a booster.

Visit pasco.floridahealth.gov/ for more tips. 

 

Healthy Kids board approves KidCare aid

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Healthy Kids Corporation board of directors approved financial and administrative relief for families impacted by Hurricane Helene. 

These relief measures apply to families residing in the 22 Florida counties currently designated by FEMA as eligible for individual assistance. This included Pasco and Hillsborough counties. 

To help families following the storm, the corporation agreed to cover 100% of eligible October monthly payments for November coverage. An additional month of payment relief will be made available to those who contact the Florida KidCare Call Center expressing a need. Members enrolled in both subsidized and full-pay plans are included.

On top of monthly payment support, families with annual renewals scheduled for September or October will have extra time – until Nov. 30 – to complete the renewal process.

Altogether, more than 48,000 children live in the 22 identified counties, representing more than 25% of the total Florida KidCare population (excluding Medicaid). The cost to cover waived October payments is an estimated $2,300,000.

 

TRICARE authorizes temporary prescription refill waivers

FALLS CHURCH, Va. – The Defense Health Agency announced TRICARE beneficiaries in 51 Florida counties, including Hillsborough and Pasco, may receive emergency prescription refills now through Oct. 17 due to Hurricane Milton.

To receive an emergency refill of prescription medications, TRICARE beneficiaries should take their prescription bottle to any TRICARE retail network pharmacy. If the bottle is unavailable or the label is damaged or missing, beneficiaries should contact Express Scripts Inc., or their retail network pharmacy for assistance.

Beneficiaries may call Express Scripts at 1-877-363-1303 to find a network pharmacy.

 

Pet therapy volunteers provide support

LUTZ – Dennis Moses, of Trinity, and his 9-year-old foxhound-greyhound mix Gino are among the newest pet therapy volunteers at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North. 

Dennis and Gino recently added St. Joseph’s Hospital-North to their volunteer locations that include hospitals and nursing homes. 

They have been doing pet therapy for more than three years. 

Dennis and Gino are among seven pairs of pet therapy volunteers routinely visiting St. Joseph’s Hospital-North bringing joy, comfort, happiness and delight to patients, visitors and staff.

 

DOH-Pasco issues mosquito-borne illness alert

PASCO COUNTY – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County informed residents Oct. 1 of confirmed human cases of locally-acquired dengue. 

DOH-Pasco and Pasco County Mosquito Control District are coordinating surveillance and prevention efforts. 

The Department continues to conduct statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus infections, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya, and dengue. Residents of Florida are encouraged to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s site.

Stay updated on the cases by visiting floridahealth.gov.

 

Comfort centers offer refuge

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Alliance for Healthy Communities converted the All Ways Center into a County Comfort Center to help those recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Helene. 

The County Comfort Center was designed to provide an air-conditioned environment where people could use Wifi, charge their electronic devices, receive donations and get referrals for help.

Operating hours were from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday at 6020 U.S. 19. 

 

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North urges women get mammograms 

LUTZ – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and St. Joseph’s Hospital-North encourages women to make an appointment for a mammogram. 

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among American women. Getting a mammogram screening is the best way to detect breast cancer early.

A prescription or physician referral is not necessary for a screening mammogram.

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North’s Shimberg Breast Center uses 3-D technology to produce high resolution mammograms. 3-D gives a more precise, clear, accurate and sharper image. 

The technology offers more comfort. Biopsies can also be performed and biopsies can be done from a sitting position instead of lying prone on the stomach with the face downward. 

Another enhanced feature is that 3-D can compare images side-by-side from year to year.

Visit ItsInOurHands.org for details. 

 

Boil water notice rescinded

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – A precautionary boil water notice issued by Hillsborough County Water Resources on Sept. 30 for the HCWRD South Central drinking water system that impacted customers in the Balm-Riverview area was lifted for all customers by Oct. 3.

The notice for some areas were lifted Oct. 2 after testing showed the water meets water quality standards.  

Customers in two areas, the Balm Grove subdivision and Wildgrass Apartments, were still under a precautionary boil water notice early morning Oct. 3. The boil water notice for that area was rescinded later that afternoon.

Hillsborough County’s Water Resources department had issued the precautionary boil water notice due to the distribution system pressure in the subdivision falling below the required regulatory level because of a water main break.  

The Florida Department of Health recommended allowing the water to run for five minutes at each tap to flush the lines with fresh water. This included misters, drinking fountains, ice makers (discard the first bin full), etc., when flushing the lines.

Go to HCFL.gov/BoilWaterNotice for details or call Hillsborough County Water Resources Department at 813-307-1000.

 

Health department cautions about dangers of flood waters

PASCO COUNTY – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County urges residents to be aware of the health risks associated with flooding.
Skin contact with flood waters does not, by itself, pose a serious health risk. However, health hazards are a concern when waters are or become contaminated with bacteria or contain dangerous debris.

DOH-Pasco recommends the following to prevent illness or injury from flood waters:

• Basic hygiene is critical. If you are under a boil water notice, use commercially bottled water for mixing baby formula. Wash your hands with soap and either disinfected or boiled and cooled water, especially before preparing or eating food, after toilet use, after handling a soiled diaper, after participating in flood cleanup activities, and after handling objects contaminated with flood water or sewage.
• Avoid eating or drinking anything that has been contaminated with flood waters.
• Avoid contact with flood waters, especially if you have open cuts or sores.
• If you have any open cuts or sores and come in contact with flood waters, wash the area well with soap to prevent infection. If a wound develops redness, swelling, or drainage, seek immediate medical attention.
• Residents who sustain lacerations and/or puncture wounds are encouraged to contact their primary health care provider to make sure they are current on their tetanus vaccine and possibly get a booster.

If on a septic system and your plumbing is functioning slowly:

• Converse water as much as possible; the less water used, the less sewage the septic tank must process. Minimize use of your washing machine.
• Do not have the septic tank pumped. Exceptionally high-water tables might crush a septic tank that was pumped dry. If the basic problem is high ground water, pumping the tank does nothing to solve that problem.

If your well is flooded:

• Heavy rainfall may have made your well water unsafe to drink. If you are unsure about the impact of flooding on your well water, use bottled water or boil water for drinking, making ice, teeth brushing, and washing any areas of the skin that have been cut or injured.
• If your well is affected by flood waters, there may be disease-causing organisms in your water making it unsafe to drink.

Call DOH-Pasco Environmental Public Health at 727-841-4425 option 3 for additional questions regarding well water testing.

 

Cooperative Extension provides resources for grandparents

DADE CITY – UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension invites the community to join its monthly support group for grandparents navigating the journey of raising grandchildren – GRAND Group.

The group meets from 10 a.m. to noon on the first Monday of each month at One Stop Shop, 15029 14th St., Dade City. Meetings allow participants to support each other, share resources and learn from guest speakers. 

Call 352-521-1254 for more information about Grand Group and the One Stop Shop. 

 

TRICARE expands temporary prescription refill waivers 

FALLS CHURCH, Virginia – The Defense Health Agency announced that TRICARE beneficiaries in several Florida counties, including  Hillsborough and Pasco, may now receive emergency prescription refills through Oct. 3 due to Tropical Storm Helene.

To receive an emergency refill of prescription medications, TRICARE beneficiaries should take their prescription bottle to any TRICARE retail network pharmacy. If the bottle is unavailable or the label is damaged or missing, beneficiaries should contact Express Scripts Inc., or their retail network pharmacy for assistance.

Beneficiaries may call Express Scripts at 1-877-363-1303, or search the network pharmacy locator to find a network pharmacy.