Orlando Health Closing Brevard County Hospital: What It Means For Patients

Luna Greco

4 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

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Impact on Patient Access to Care

The closure of the Orlando Health Brevard County hospital significantly impacts patient access to care, presenting several challenges for residents.

Increased Travel Times and Inconvenience

The most immediate consequence is increased travel times for patients seeking care. Those previously served by the local hospital now face longer commutes to reach alternative facilities. This increased distance poses considerable challenges, especially for:

• Increased commute times: Patients may experience significantly longer travel times, leading to delays in receiving necessary treatment.
• Potential for delayed treatment: Longer travel times can exacerbate existing health conditions and delay critical care.
• Financial burden of increased travel costs: Increased gas costs, tolls, and parking fees can place a significant financial burden on patients, particularly those with limited resources.

While public transportation and ride-sharing services offer alternative options, their availability and reliability in all parts of Brevard County may be limited, further compounding the problem.

Reduced Availability of Specialized Services

The closure also raises concerns about the reduced availability of specialized medical services previously offered at the Brevard County hospital. This loss of access can have serious implications for patients requiring specialized care, including:

• Cardiology: Patients needing cardiac procedures or ongoing cardiac monitoring may face significant disruptions.
• Oncology: Cancer patients reliant on the hospital's oncology services will need to find alternative providers, potentially impacting their treatment plans.
• Other Specialized Services: Other services, such as specialized surgical procedures or advanced diagnostic imaging, may also be affected, requiring patients to travel further for care.

Finding Alternative Healthcare Providers

Navigating the healthcare landscape after the Orlando Health Brevard County hospital closure requires proactive steps to identify and transition to new providers.

Identifying Nearby Hospitals and Clinics

Several hospitals and clinics in and around Brevard County offer alternative healthcare services. Patients should research these options to find the best fit for their needs:

• [Hospital Name 1]: [Website Link] – [Location] – [Contact Information] – [Specialized Services Offered]
• [Hospital Name 2]: [Website Link] – [Location] – [Contact Information] – [Specialized Services Offered]
• [Clinic Name 1]: [Website Link] – [Location] – [Contact Information] – [Specialized Services Offered] (Note: Replace bracketed information with actual details of nearby healthcare facilities)

Thoroughly researching these facilities, considering their proximity, services offered, and patient reviews, is crucial.

Transferring Medical Records and Continuity of Care

Maintaining continuity of care requires the efficient transfer of medical records to new healthcare providers. This process involves:

• Contacting your current provider: Request official copies of your complete medical records.
• Contacting your new provider: Inquire about their preferred method of receiving medical records.
• Informing specialists: Ensure all specialists involved in your care are notified of the transfer of records.

Maintaining thorough and up-to-date medical records is essential for seamless transitions and to prevent potential delays or complications in treatment.

Addressing Concerns and Seeking Support

The closure of the Orlando Health Brevard County hospital may raise concerns and questions for patients. Several resources can provide assistance and support during this transition.

Patient Advocacy Groups and Resources

Several patient advocacy groups and organizations can help navigate the complexities of healthcare transitions. These organizations offer:

• [Patient Advocacy Group 1]: [Website Link] – [Contact Information]
• [Patient Advocacy Group 2]: [Website Link] – [Contact Information] (Note: Replace bracketed information with actual details of relevant patient advocacy groups.)

These groups provide valuable information, resources, and support to patients affected by hospital closures.

Understanding Patient Rights

Patients retain rights to access quality healthcare and should understand the options available to them. This includes:

• Access to Healthcare: Patients have the right to seek healthcare from alternative providers.
• Appealing Decisions: Patients may have avenues for appealing decisions related to healthcare access or treatment.

Conclusion

The Orlando Health closing Brevard County hospital significantly impacts patient access to care, increasing travel times, potentially reducing access to specialized services, and necessitating a transition to new healthcare providers. Understanding the implications of the Orlando Health closing Brevard County hospital is crucial for securing your continued access to quality healthcare. Take the necessary steps today to find a new provider and ensure a smooth transition. Proactively plan your healthcare needs, research alternative providers, and utilize available resources to maintain uninterrupted access to the care you require. Remember to transfer your medical records and seek assistance from patient advocacy groups if needed. Don't delay – securing your healthcare future is paramount.