KEY WEST, Fla. – MAY 1, 2026 – In collaboration with multiple national and local emergency preparedness organizations, Lower Keys Medical Center will hold an inpatient hurricane evacuation simulation on May 7, 2026, at multiple locations. 
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Lower Keys Medical Center sponsors a hurricane evacuation drill yearly to test preparedness for a major hurricane that would require hospitalized patients to be evacuated to a safer area of the mainland until the storm has passed. This choreographed exercise involves hospital staff, emergency management, ground and air transportation, fire rescue/EMS, law enforcement, multiple military branches, meteorologists, and community health organizations. To ensure the safety and efficiency of all participants, the drill is not open to the public. 
 
The drill begins with modeling a fictional scenario of a developing system, identifying the steps in the week and days leading up to the storm, and the communications and preparations involved through those steps. In this situation, community partners and military resources are requested through the county Emergency Operations Center following established county emergency management protocols.
 
The physical aspects of the drill include training by the Air National Guard to transfer volunteers portraying patients on special litters from the hospital setting into ground transport and onto the Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron aircraft, staged at NAS Key West. In an actual evacuation, the patients would then be flown to a receiving hospital out of the range of impact. The drill concludes with a meeting of all organizations to evaluate and critique interagency communications and collaboration.
 
Tadd Mallard, RN, LKMC Director of Emergency Services and Emergency Management Chair, said, “We participate in drills throughout the year simulating various emergency scenarios. Evacuating patients who cannot be safely discharged is sometimes necessary, as in Hurricane Irma. These exercises help us and our community partners instinctively react to processes that have been hardwired. The drills also continue to strengthen our relationships which is crucial in an emergency evacuation. We successfully and safely evacuated patients during Hurricane Irma in 2017 because everyone knew their roles and executed them with familiarity and experience.”
 
“Being prepared is part of our commitment to the safety of our patients, community, and staff, which is our highest priority," said Drew Bigby, Chief Executive Officer of Lower Keys Medical Center. “We are grateful to all of our national and community partners for their annual support.”
 
Active participants in the annual hurricane evacuation drill include the Air National Guard, NAS Boca Chica, US Coast Guard, Monroe County and City of Key West Emergency Management, Coast Guard Emergency Management, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and Trauma Star, Key West Police and Fire Departments, Monroe County Fire Rescue, National Weather Service/NOAA, E-Care Ambulance, Southernmost Medical Transport, Keys Health Ready Coalition, and the Florida Department of Health – Monroe County. 
 
About Lower Keys Medical Center
Lower Keys Medical Center is an acute care community hospital offering 24 hour emergency department services. Accreditations include The Joint Commission Acute Care Hospital Program and Primary Stroke Center, American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Center, the American College of Radiology – Mammography, and the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission - Echocardiography. The hospital is recognized by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) with a 4 Star quality rating. 

​KEY WEST, FL, APRIL 24, 2026 - Your heart is one of the most important organs as it continually pumps oxygen and nutrient-rich blood around your body and any disruption can be life threatening. The coronary arteries that supply blood flow and oxygen to the heart can get clogged, and are the cause of heart attacks. Knowing five key symptoms can help you take quick action to save your life or someone else’s in an emergency.
 
Symptom 1: Chest pain or discomfort triggered by physical or emotional distress, especially in the center or on the left side of the chest, could be a sign that blood flow to the heart is being limited and is the most commonly recognized symptom of a heart attack. The feeling can last for more than a few minutes or repeatedly come and go. A squeezing sensation or feeling of fullness is often described as feeling like an elephant is sitting on the chest.
 
Symptom 2: Do not ignore discomfort that radiates to other parts of the body, including the neck, shoulders, arms, back or jaw.
 
Symptom 3: Sudden shortness of breath can be a sole symptom and can also happen when the blockage keeps the heart from pumping enough blood and causes fluid build-up in the lungs.
 
Symptom 4: Unusual or unexplained extreme tiredness can be a symptom of an impending heart attack.
 
Symptom 5: General malaise, nausea and lightheadedness can also mask heart attack symptoms.
 
“Knowing the symptoms of a heart attack can save a life because timely treatment is critical,” said Cesar Jara, M.D., FACC, board-certified interventional cardiologist with Keys Medical Group Cardiology and Lower Keys Medical Center cardiac catheterization lab. “The more time that passes without restoring blood flow, the greater the damage to the heart muscle. That damage is irreversible in some cases and increases the risk of sudden death.”
 
Lifesaving interventions have reduced deaths from heart attacks by 90 percent since 1970, but about 805,000 people still experience a heart attack each year in the United States.
 
Lower Keys Medical Center is committed to delivering timely treatment for heart attacks to support the best possible outcomes. The cardiac catheterization lab provides 24/7 interventional cardiology coverage so that patients can receive treatment within the optimal time frame of 90 minutes or less.  
 
If you, or someone you are with is experiencing unusual symptoms, call 9-1-1. 
 
Dr. Jara added, “If you have chest pain or discomfort, unusual fatigue or shortness of breath – take the symptoms seriously. It’s much better to get medical attention and act fast.”
 
Lower Keys Medical Center is accredited by the American College of Cardiology as a Chest Pain Center. 

KEY WEST, Fla. – APRIL 17, 2026 – Lower Keys Medical Center now offers inpatient hemodialysis onsite, furthering its commitment to deliver compassionate, life sustaining care to the Lower Keys region. Lower Keys Medical Center implemented this program in response to the need in the community for safe dialysis services in an inpatient acute care setting.  

Patients may require dialysis for diagnoses such as end stage renal disease and acute kidney injury, in which the kidneys are unable to function properly to remove waste, toxins, and excess fluid from the blood. During hemodialysis, the blood is pumped through a dialysis machine, filtered and cleaned via a dialyzer, sometimes referred to as an artificial kidney. The clean blood is returned to the patient. While many patients receive dialysis on an outpatient basis, inpatient dialysis is necessary if patients are too unstable for outpatient clinics, have compromised immunity or are experiencing acute, reversible kidney failure.  

"We have invested in equipment, resources and training to offer this vital service at Lower Keys Medical Center," said Drew Bigby, chief executive officer. "We want to serve every patient who comes through our doors with safe, high-quality care close to home. Offering in-patient dialysis services will enable local residents to get the care they need without leaving the community. I thank Dr. Beysolow for his expertise and support in bringing this service to LKMC."   

Taweh Beysolow, M.D., board-certified Nephrologist and Dialysis Medical Director, oversees the service which is performed by trained registered nurses.  

Local resident Vicki Wolcott, who recently received hemodialysis at Lower Keys Medical Center, said, “In the past, I had to be transferred to Miami for inpatient dialysis. It’s very convenient to have it done here. And the dialysis nurse is so good and efficient. She was excellent and there wasn’t a question she couldn’t answer. We appreciate having this service here.” 

Lower Keys Medical Center has performed over 50 treatments since it began offering the service, and transfers for nephrology have decreased by 69% from January - April 2026 compared to the same time period in 2025.  

Photo caption: Madison Frohn, Dialysis RN, and Angelina Ashler, RN, Director of ICU and Dialysis, demonstrate hemodialysis equipment.  

KEY WEST, Fla. – APRIL 7, 2026 – On March 25, 2026, Lower Keys Medical Center celebrated eight team members at the Annual Employee Awards Dinner and recognized employees with milestone years of service.
 
Brittany Slattery, patient care technician in the medical surgical unit, was named overall Employee of the Year and clinical non-nurse Employee of the Year. She was recognized for her extraordinary compassion and humanity in patient care and for serving as an exceptional preceptor for new technicians.
 
Jody Houser, RN in the intensive care unit, received the Frank Houtman Award for volunteerism, named after a long-term volunteer at the hospital. She was recognized for serving a community member with specialized care outside of the hospital setting, arranging her schedule to provide evening support, devoting time to educating family members while conquering language barriers, and arranging an unforgettable experience for her patient to attend a Blue Angels Meet and Greet and enjoy VIP access to the air show. She provided care, joy, dignity, connection and hope.
 
Melissa Johnson, RN in the labor and delivery unit, was named clinical RN of the Year. Colleagues noted Melissa’s vast experience from having served in many departments and roles in her 14 years at Lower Keys Medical Center. She is dedicated to her team and patients and embodies leadership, reliability and clinical excellence, going above and beyond in everything she does.
 
William Stafford, security officer, was named Employee of the Year for the Depoo campus. He was recognized for his cheerful approach to life, with peers saying he is never in a bad mood, and is supportive, trustworthy and always smiling. An Army veteran and family man – married for over 40 years with three children – William is known for always being willing to lend a hand whenever anyone needs help.
 
Bailey Sellers, receptionist, received the Employee of the Year Award for Keys Medical Group. Colleagues say that Bailey sets the tone for a patient’s visit and keeps everyone informed and comfortable. She is a true team player with a can-do attitude.
Kathleen Scott, human resources generalist, was named non-clinical Employee of the Year. Recognized for her creativity and conscientiousness, Kathleen is known to jump in and complete projects without hesitation and has earned the trust of colleagues through the organization.
 
Cecil Watson, director of plant operations, was named the non-clinical Director of the Year. In just over a year since joining Lower Keys Medical Center, Cecil has managed multiple capital projects and facility investments. He is committed to seeing positive changes in the facility. Colleagues note that he takes ownership of his role and is always available to others. He communicates well and remains level headed when working through a challenge.
 
Jolene Evans, RN, director of nursing, received the clinical Director of the Year Award. She was recognized for taking on additional responsibility voluntarily. She is credited with self-motivation, a desire to learn, and willingness to confront and solve issues.
 
Employees celebrating milestone years of service include:
 
Five years: Natalia Adorno, Henry Arroyo, Shelia Butler, Crystal Ewing, Emelia Fernandez Cardenas, Yodis Fuentes Flores, Sarah Gaccione, April Gallagher, Wesley Graham, Petra Holt, Michelle Huber, Orlando Lopez-Roman, MD, Tara Lowson, Michael Minnick, Ewa Owens Bakalarska, Deborah Rackley, Teresa Ricketts, Lindsay Robertson, Jessica Vacca, Bonnie Webb Barroso.
 
Ten years: Alice Cavanaugh, Marie Cenatus, Joanna Cooke, Lauren Dehanas, Kathryn Ferrara, Christina Gonzales, Charlotte Johnson, Matthew Markillie, Lindsey Nelson, Mercedes Ramirez, Kristie Santana, Bailey Sellers, Shirley Tinsley.
 
Fifteen years: Tammy Dillard-Crawford, Tammy Sarver, Kelly Sweeney.
 
Twenty years: Gulbakhar Khamrayeva, Tadd Mallard, Maria Seitz, Nicole Wells.
 
Twenty-five years: Misti Sellers.
 
Thirty years: Jeannette Bruein.
 
Thirty-five years: Sandra Harry.

KEY WEST, Fla. – APRIL 2, 2026 – At more than 134,000 patient encounters last year, Lower Keys Medical Center delivered on its commitment to provide quality healthcare for the Lower Keys community. The health system’s 2025 Community Benefit Report shows care extended well beyond the hospital and clinics, contributing more than $133 million to the region through charity/uncompensated care provided, capital dollars reinvested in services and facilities, employee payroll, charitable projects and payment of more than $5 million in taxes.

The health system used its resources to increase access and strengthen services through more than $9.6 million in projects. New technology and equipment includes CT scanning, nuclear medicine camera, and a surgical tower visualization platform. Medical providers were recruited in orthopedics, obstetrics and gynecology, interventional cardiology, gastroenterology, counseling and primary care.

“We are here to care for our patients and the place we all call home,” said Drew Bigby, chief executive officer of Lower Keys Medical Center. “Health is central to quality of life, and we offer quality medical services here in the Lower Keys to make it easy to access the care you need. It’s our privilege to transform lives every day, helping patients manage their health at every stage of life.”

Area families grew with the help of Lower Keys Medical Center as 400 babies were delivered in 2025.

A focus on best practices and standards of care resulted in a 4-Star quality rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Emergency medicine is a critical service, with more than 22,000 visits to the emergency room at Lower Keys Medical Center. Life-saving medically necessary care was provided to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, with approximately $47 million in charity and uncompensated care in 2025.

The health system and its employees also support local organizations that make a difference, especially those addressing social determinants of health. Through service projects such as the annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive for SOS Foundation Stock Island Food Pantry and contributions to charitable organizations such as MARC House, Habitat for Humanity of Key West and Lower Keys and Samuel’s House, Lower Keys Medical Center gives back to the community throughout the year.

Payroll of approximately $63 million supports the delivery of around the clock care by a team of physicians, nurses and support staff, all passionate about serving patients. Their compassion and skills make a difference in the lives of neighbors, friends and the larger community.

“We have immense gratitude for every member of our team, and we are investing in resources to support them in their work and a culture that attracts and retains these talented people,” said Bigby. “This team is passionate about delivering quality care to those who are counting on us. We have an unwavering commitment to patient safety, clinical excellence, and doing the right thing every day for those who trust us with their care.”

Support for the future healthcare workforce includes training the next generation of medical professionals through the hospital’s new graduate RN program and $200,000 in donations to College of the Florida Keys to match state grants for nursing education. Lower Keys Medical Center also provided three scholarships for Key West High School graduates pursuing health related college programs.

KEY WEST, Fla. – MARCH 31, 2026 – Lower Keys Medical Center employees participated in the fourth annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive through the month of March, collecting more than 150 jars of peanut butter for the SOS Foundation Stock Island Food Pantry.  

In Monroe County, nearly 50% of students quality for free or reduced lunches, making access to nutritious foods critical. The SOS Foundation's mission is to foster a healthier community by increasing equitable food access through food distribution, food recovery, and nutrition education.  

"Hunger and poor nutrition affect overall physical, mental, and long-term health and it is important for us to help fight food insecurity in our region. I appreciate our employees for their support of this program that will help families served by the Food Pantry," said Drew Bigby, chief executive officer of Lower Keys Medical Center. 

Morgan Barber, executive director of SOS Foundation Stock Island Food Pantry said, "We're so grateful to Lower Keys Medical Center for rallying their teams and the community each year to help ensure our children and families have consistent access to food."  

The Jars of Love were collected throughout March and donated to SOS Foundation Stock Island Food Pantry just before National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day, April 2nd.  
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L-R: Alissa Trabbold, UWCK; Rosanna Mullen, LKMC; Drew Bigby, LKMC; Morgan Barber, SOS Foundation; Tiffany Pellicier, UWCK; Janis Adams, LKMC; Tiffani Mensch, UWCK; Natali Acosta, SOS Foundation. 

KEY WEST, Fla. – MARCH 20, 2026 – Lower Keys Medical Center is hosting a free Stroke Support Group on April 15, 2026, at 2 pm, for stroke survivors and their loved ones to share challenges and successes with others in a positive and encouraging environment.  

Attendees will receive accurate information in a group session that promotes better understanding of stroke recovery and prevention of recurrent or future strokes. The group fosters improved communication among families and encourages active involvement of patients with aphasia who have difficulty communicating. As recommended by the American Stroke Association, participants are encouraged to bring their primary support person.  

Lower Keys Medical Center is recognized by The Joint Commission and the American Stroke Association as a Primary Stroke Center. Guest presenters will include Sara Phillips, RN, Stroke Coordinator, and Patrick Pritchett, Occupational Therapist.  

For more information or to register for the support group, please call Lorna Klein at 305-294-5531, extension 4520.  
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About Lower Keys Medical Center 
Lower Keys Medical Center is an acute care community hospital offering 24 hour emergency department services. Accreditations include The Joint Commission Acute Care Hospital Program and Primary Stroke Center, American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Center, the American College of Radiology – Mammography, and the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission - Echocardiography. The hospital is recognized by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) with a 4 Star quality rating.  

KEY WEST, Fl, MARCH 13, 2026 – March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths for men and the fourth leading cause in women in the United States. Despite being preventable and treatable, many individuals still die from this disease due to a lack of awareness about preventive care. 
  
Lower Keys Medical Center is committed to promoting early detection and prevention of colon cancer through regular colonoscopy screenings because, when detected early, the survival rate for colon cancer is approximately 90%. 
 
During the procedure, doctors examine the colon for pre-cancerous polyps, which can be removed during the same process, reducing the risk of developing colon cancer in the future. They can also screen for cancer. This is important, as studies show those who undergo regular screenings are less likely to die from colon cancer. 
 
Many people fear that there might be discomfort and pain associated with a colonoscopy. However, it’s important to know that patients are under monitored anesthesia – asleep but breathing on their own. 
  
“Some people may hesitate to schedule a colonoscopy, but they are essential for early detection and prevention of colon cancer,” said Orlando Lopez-Roman, MD, board-certified gastroenterologist, at Keys Medical Group Gastroenterology. “Don’t delay in getting this life-saving procedure done.” 
  
Colonoscopy screening should start at 45 for those at average risk, with regular screenings continuing every 10 years. However, the screening frequency and start date may differ for individuals at higher risk of developing the disease, as colorectal cancer incidence is higher in certain populations, including Black and Indigenous adults, Jews of Eastern European descent, and people with a family history of colorectal cancer and men. 
  
Age also plays a big factor when it comes to risk. On average, those 50 and older are the most likely to suffer from colorectal cancer, although it is rising among people younger than 50. 
  
While age and family history cannot be changed, there are several lifestyle factors that you can modify to lower your risk, including losing weight, maintaining a healthy diet, limiting alcohol, quitting smoking and exercising regularly.  
  
“Colonoscopies have revolutionized how we detect and prevent colon cancer. With advancements in technology – such as Lower Keys Medical Center's AI-assisted endoscopy device which helps us identifyabnormalities and polyps – and improved patient comfort, there’s never been a better time to prioritize your colon health,” said Dr. Lopez-Roman. “Early detection is key, and a screening colonoscopy could save your life.” 
  
Talk to your healthcare provider about your risk level and the appropriate timing and frequency of screenings. Remember, you’re never too young to take charge of your health. 
  
Dr. Lopez-Roman is a Fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Gastroenterological Association. Keys Medical Group GI is located at 1111 12th Street, Suite 210, Key West. Appointments may be requested at KeysMedicalGroup.com or 305-294-3458.  

KEY WEST, Fla. – February 27, 2026 – Lower Keys Medical Center has again earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Primary Stroke Center Certification. 

Lower Keys Medical Center underwent a rigorous recertification process that included an unannounced onsite review on January 20, 2026. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with related certification standards including program management and delivering and facilitating clinical care. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews. 

“Primary Stroke Center Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “We commend Lower Keys Medical Center for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and to strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality and more compassionate care for individuals served.” 

“We congratulate Lower Keys Medical Center for this outstanding achievement,” says Nancy Brown, chief executive officer, the American Stroke Association. “This certification reflects its commitment to providing the highest quality of care for stroke patients.” 

Drew Bigby, chief executive officer, Lower Keys Medical Center, applauded hospital employees, saying “I am proud to work with colleagues who prioritize quality care, embrace best practices and adhere to precise standards of care that have been proven to provide the best outcomes for patients experiencing stroke.” 

The certification requirements and processes entail creating a cohesive clinical team, demonstrating a consistent approach to care, reducing variation and the risk of error, and organizing the healthcare team across the continuum of care.  

For more information, please visit The Joint Commission website.  

KEY WEST, Fla. – February 19, 2026 – Lower Keys Medical Center has invested in the Florida Keys Council of the Arts "Art in Public Buildings" program and has purchased five original works from local artists for display in the hospital's main lobby. Prints of the originals will also be hung in newly renovated patient rooms.
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"The works chosen by a hospital committee highlight the unique beauty and character of Key West. Interacting with art can promote healing and well-being. We are delighted to collaborate with Lower Keys Medical Center and our talented Key West artists on this project," said Elizabeth Young, executive director of Florida Keys Council of the Arts.
 
The art featured includes "Palms at Fort Zachary" and "Key West Sky" by Maggie Ruley, "Starlight on Olivia Street" by Erin Nelson, "Sunrise at Saddlebunch Keys" by Jim Salem, and "Old Town Bakery" by Andy Thurber. 
 
"We are proud to feature local artists for our patients, visitors and employees to enjoy, and thank the Florida Keys Council of the Arts for their assistance in curating this installation," said Drew Bigby, chief executive officer of Lower Keys Medical Center. 
 
Pictured: Drew Bigby, CEO, Lower Keys Medical Center; Artist Erin Nelson; Eric Anderson, treasurer, Florida Keys Council of the Arts; Marianne Finizio, board member, Florida Keys Council of the Arts; Artist Maggie Ruley; Elizabeth Young, executive director, Florida Keys Council of the Arts; and Artist Jim Salem.