HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital Unveils Major Maternity Service Upgrades Benefiting Treasure Coast Families
Expectant mothers across the Treasure Coast, including those residing in Vero Beach and throughout Indian River County, are set to benefit significantly from substantial renovations recently unveiled at HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce. These enhancements to the Women’s Services Department address a growing regional demand for comprehensive maternity care.
The need for robust labor and delivery services has become increasingly critical in our region, especially following the closure of Martin County’s only delivery rooms in April. This development has further strained the existing healthcare infrastructure, which sees only four hospitals providing labor and delivery services across the entire Treasure Coast.
Eric Goldman, CEO of HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital, emphasized the importance of these new facilities, citing the hospital’s rapid growth and its unique position in the region.
“We could look at it as we’re the only level three NICU in the area, and people need to come to us. And so, what does it matter? But that’s not who we are as a hospital or as a company. And so, we want to make sure that we’re providing the best possible services in the best possible way.”
For families in Vero Beach and Indian River County requiring specialized care for newborns, HCA Florida Lawnwood’s status as the sole Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in the area makes these upgrades particularly impactful. A Level III NICU provides comprehensive care for extremely premature or critically ill infants, a crucial service that often requires families to travel outside their immediate town.
Jami Friend, the Women’s Services Director, highlighted the patient-centric design of the updated facilities. The renovations focus on creating a tranquil and supportive environment for new parents. “I really like that the loudest thing in this room is going to be the baby. It’s really providing a calming atmosphere, and it’s going to make mom, dad baby relaxed and at ease while they’re learning all the education,” Friend shared, underscoring the commitment to a positive birthing experience. Goldman also noted the staff’s deep involvement in the decorating and design choices, fostering a greater sense of ownership and dedication to the new spaces.
These upgrades at HCA Florida Lawnwood are part of a broader, strategic expansion by HCA Florida across the Treasure Coast. Another significant development includes HCA Florida St. Lucie, also undergoing transformations with a brand-new NICU and expanded Women’s Services, anticipated for completion by early 2026. This collective investment sends a clear message to the community. As Goldman articulated, “We want the women of the Treasure Coast to know that they’re not being forgotten.”
Beyond the enhanced Women’s Services, HCA Florida Lawnwood is slated for further improvements, including the addition of over 30 new beds and a new parking garage, both expected to be operational in early 2026. These comprehensive developments signify a strong commitment to meeting the evolving healthcare needs of the entire Treasure Coast, ensuring that residents of Vero Beach and Indian River County have access to advanced and compassionate care close to home.
