KEY WEST, Fla. – APRIL 21, 2025 – As part of a continuing investment in technology, Lower Keys Medical Center has enhanced its surgical capabilities with an upgraded surgical visualization platform. The camera tower allows surgeons performing minimally-invasive surgeries to more clearly see the procedure area. As the surgeon guides the instruments, the camera brightens and magnifies the movements. A versatile design makes the technology useful in a variety of procedures, including:
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General surgery: Fluorescence imaging – the use of fluorescent molecules to see biological structures – aids in procedures such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, colorectal surgery, and general procedures by illuminating the area allowing visualization of blood flow and critical structures intraoperatively. This shortens the length of a procedure, decreases conversions to open procedures, and shortens hospitalizations.

Orthopedic surgery: In arthroscopic shoulder or knee surgery, the camera features a range of brightness and contrast, providing more details in shadows and highlighting small cavities and dark areas.

Ear, nose and throat surgery: With improved lighting and the ability to display more than 60 times more colors, the camera helps surgeons navigate through small cavities and improves visualization of color variation in tissues and structures.

Urological surgery: A cystoscope uses the camera and light to visualize the bladder and urethra.
Phyllis Stout, RN, Director of Surgical Services at Lower Keys Medical Center said, “We are pleased to be able to offer this next level technology that aids our skilled surgeons in delivering quality care for our patients.”

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, and American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Center.

KEY WEST, Fla. - Lower Keys Medical Center has completed renovations to the nuclear medicine room and upgraded the nuclear medicine camera and equipment. The new technology offers faster scan time, reduced dosage of tracers, enhanced detection of small lesions, and higher image quality from a premium camera. 
 
Nuclear medicine diagnostics examine structure and metabolic function of body organs such as the kidneys, gallbladder, thyroid, parathyroid glands, and stomach and can be used to identify bone infections, blood clots, intestinal bleeding, and gallbladder dysfunction. The scan also assesses heart function and the presence of blocked coronary arteries and assists in locating sentinel nodes for breast cancer or melanoma surgery. 
 
"This upgraded nuclear medicine equipment is part of our ongoing commitment to investing in the hospital, and complements our range of imaging services," said Rosanna Mullen, chief quality officer at Lower Keys Medical Center. "From x-ray to PET/CT scanning, we have the technology capabilities to provide patients with the care and services they need, close to home." 
 
In addition to the nuclear medicine camera and equipment, Lower Keys Medical Center offers x-ray, ultrasound, mammography, bone densitometry, computed tomography (CT), echocardiography, fluoroscopy, angiography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The cardiac catheterization lab also uses imaging technology to examine heart function and PET/CT scanning helps diagnose, stage and monitor various conditions, such as cancer. 
 
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, and American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Center.

​KEY WEST, Fla. - In a 2024 poll, 79% of respondents said they made New Years’ resolutions involving their health. While sweeping resolutions are notoriously hard to keep and often forgotten by spring, there are small, simple steps that you can take every day to make a lasting improvement in your health.
 
“Even small lifestyle changes can increase longevity, reduce the risk associated with chronic disease, improve mental health and increase energy,” said Courtney Bonner, D.O., primary care physician at Keys Medical Group at Searstown. “Rather than setting unrealistic goals, I encourage patients to take small steps in areas that we know make an impact, like movement and better nutrition, to create new, healthier habits that can be maintained over time.”
 
Making small changes around four healthy lifestyle factors can kick start your journey to better health and create a foundation for new habits that will keep you feeling your best.
 
Move More
Experts recommend adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week to combat the health effects of sedentary behavior. The good news is that every minute counts. Small changes like taking the stairs, walking around the block or exercising in short 5-10 minute bursts can help you reach a meaningful activity goal.
 
Eat Your Veggies
Diet is a major risk factor for many chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Including a variety of healthy foods in your diet can have a significant impact on health.  Get started by adding fresh vegetables and fruits, along with other minimally processed foods high in vitamins and minerals, to the menu.
 
Get Enough Sleep
The recommended amount of sleep for adults is at least seven hours per day, yet more than 36% report getting less than that amount. To take steps toward improving your sleep habits, make it a goal to go to bed and get up at the same time every day, and avoid electronic devices at bedtime.
 
Phone a Friend
Participating in meaningful activities with friends and family members creates a sense of purpose in daily life that improves health, happiness and resilience. Make time for positive relationships by joining a group focused on a favorite hobby, volunteering your time or taking a group exercise class.
 
“Getting started is the first step toward a healthier lifestyle,” added Bonner. “It is easy to get discouraged if your goal seems out of reach, but all of us can find a few minutes a day to move more, go to bed a few minutes earlier or connect with a friend. Small steps can add up to significant health improvement over time.” 
 
An annual wellness exam is a great opportunity to talk with your physician about risk factors for chronic disease and lifestyle changes to support your health.  Make an appointment today at KeysMedicalGroup.com.

​KEY WEST, Fla. – Lower Keys Medical Center welcomes Leandro Perez, M.D., and Julian Javier, M.D., board-certified interventional cardiologists. They join Cesar Jara, M.D. in the Lower Keys Medical Center cardiac catheterization lab, providing 24/7 STEMI coverage and performing procedures to diagnose and treat cardiac conditions, including heart attacks.
 
Dr. Perez received his medical degree at Madre and Maestra Pontifical Catholic University in Santiago, Dominican Republic and completed his internal medicine residency and a Fellowship in Interventional Cardiology and Endovascular Therapy at Wayne State University, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI.  He completed a Fellowship in Cardiology at Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA.
 
Perez’ additional board certifications include American Board of Internal Medicine in cardiovascular medicine; American Board of Vascular Medicine in vascular medicine and endovascular medicine; National Board of Echocardiography in adult echocardiography; and Certification Board of Nuclear Cardiology in nuclear cardiology. He is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, Society for Vascular Medicine, American Society of Echocardiography, and Society of Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions.
 
Javier is a graduate of Autonomous University of Santo Domingo, in Dominican Republic. He completed his residency in internal medicine at Saint Louis University Health Sciences Center, St. Louis, where he also completed Fellowship in Cardiovascular Diseases. He completed Fellowship in Interventional Cardiology at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, in Little Rock, AR.
 
“We are very pleased to welcome Dr. Perez and Dr. Javier to the team of experienced interventional cardiologists providing round the clock, lifesaving cardiac care,” said Gregory Repetti, FACHE, interim chief executive officer at Lower Keys Medical Center.

KEY WEST, Fla. – Lower Keys Medical Center employees participated in the third annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive through the month of March, collecting 175 jars of peanut butter for the SOS Foundation Stock Island Food Pantry.
 
In Monroe County, the average cost of a meal is $5.29, compared to $3.99 as a national average. The SOS Foundation’s mission is to foster a healthier community by increasing equitable food access through food distribution, food recovery, and nutrition education. They distributed more than 1.6 million pounds of food in 2024.
 
“Hunger has a significant impact on overall physical and mental health and wellbeing and is a contributing factor to chronic conditions,” said Greg Repetti, interim chief executive officer at Lower Keys Medical Center. “Thank you to the employees and community members who donated to the drive.”
 
Morgan Tracey, executive director of SOS Foundation said, “In 2024, families visited our Stock Island Food Pantry 11,922 times seeking food assistance. Peanut butter is a favorite for school lunches and snacks, but we never have enough. The Jars of Love drive is a vital event we eagerly anticipate each year, as it helps meet this critical need for our clients.”
 
The Jars of Love were collected between March 3rd and 24th and donated to the SOS Foundation Stock Island Food Pantry on March 26th, leading up to National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day, April 2nd.
 
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, and American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Center.

​KEY WEST, Fla. – In recognition of National Doctors’ Day (March 30), Lower Keys Medical Center made charitable contributions to three local organizations to honor the medical staff. For the eighth annual presentation, hospital medical staff members selected organizations that have a significant impact on social determinants of health. The recipients for 2025 are MARC House, Samuel’s House, and Habitat for Humanity of Key West and Lower Florida Keys.
 
The Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens provides wrap around life services for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities, including adult day training, housing, supported employment, and supported living.
 
Samuel’s House supports long term, transitional and emergency housing to individuals and families in need in the community.
 
Habitat for Humanity of Key West and Lower Florida Keys offers education, affordable home construction, home repairs, and resources to support home ownership in the Lower Keys.
 
National Doctors’ Day is celebrated annually to acknowledge the contributions of doctors and medical staff to patients and the community. In lieu of gifts for Doctors’ Day, Lower Keys Medical Center donated $1,000 to each organization to support the health and human services they provide.
 
“A healthy community requires a network of resources, education, and support for people in need. I can’t think of a better way to honor our medical staff than to contribute to the good works our recipients do throughout the year,” said Gregory Repetti, FACHE, interim chief executive officer at Lower Keys Medical Center.
 
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, and American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Center

​KEY WEST, Fla. – The prevalence of one of the most common cardiovascular conditions in the U.S. is significantly higher than previously estimated, underscoring the need for better prevention and treatment strategies. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a rapid, irregular heartbeat that can lead to stroke or sudden death if untreated. A 2024 study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology estimates the current national prevalence of AFib to be at least 10.5 million adults, compared to previous estimates of 3.3 million adults.

Many people with atrial fibrillation don’t know they have it and don’t have symptoms. However, common symptoms of AFib include an irregular heartbeat, heart palpitations, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, fatigue and chest pain. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends adults without symptoms of atrial fibrillation or other risk factors should be screened at age 50. Those with risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes may need to be screened sooner and anyone experiencing symptoms should contact their doctor.
 
“Atrial fibrillation is highly treatable with lifestyle modifications, medication, and in some cases surgical procedures,” said Giovanni Campanile, M.D., FACC, of Keys Medical Group Cardiology. “It is important for adults to understand underlying factors that may increase their risk of AFib and talk with their doctor about addressing those factors. For some, it may be exercising more and eating a heart healthy diet, but others may also need clinical intervention.”
 
One in five cases of AFib can be attributed to high blood pressure. Other risk factors include advancing age, obesity, diabetes, heart failure, sleep apnea, alcohol use and smoking. The risk of stroke is four to five times higher in people with AFib, and AFib-related strokes tend to be more severe than strokes caused by other factors. In addition, AFib can lead to heart attack, heart failure and sudden cardiac arrest.
 
“Left untreated, AFib can have devastating consequences for patients and their families, so it is important to get screened if you are in a high-risk group or have symptoms,” added Campanile. “The most common screening tool is an electrocardiogram, a non-invasive test that can detect irregular heart rhythms, along with a thorough physical examination.”
 
Patients who are at high risk for AFib should maintain regular wellness checks with a primary care physician and talk with their doctor about their concerns and further screening. To make an appointment today, visit KeysMedicalGroup.com. 
 
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, and American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Center.
 

 KEY WEST, FL – Lower Keys Medical Center has named Felix “Drew” Bigby as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective April 28. Bigby is a 29-year Navy veteran with more than 35 years of experience in healthcare administration, including the successful management of major health systems and community hospitals in the U.S. and abroad.
 
Most recently, Bigby served as Chief Administrative Officer of Providence-Swedish Health Services in Seattle, where he managed day-to-day operational activities at four locations, including two community hospitals. During his military service, Bigby served as CEO of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, CEO of the U.S. Naval Hospital in Yokosuka, Japan and COO/VP of Operations for Fort Belvoir Community Hospital in Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
 
“We are looking forward to welcoming Drew Bigby to Lower Keys Medical Center, and we are confident that his experience leading hospitals and health systems in many different locations and environments will be a great asset in Key West,” said Robin Lockwood, M.D., Chairman, Lower Keys Medical Center Board of Trustees. “He is excited to be part of this community, and to support LKMC in delivering safe, quality healthcare throughout the Lower Keys.”
 
Bigby not only has significant experience driving operational efficiency and quality improvement, he is also committed to improving patient experience and building relationships at all levels of the organization and in the community.
 
“The level of care and the commitment of the team at Lower Keys Medical Center is impressive and I look forward to working with the dedicated physicians, nurses and staff to continue to improve safety, quality and care delivery,” said Bigby. “I’m also looking forward to making Key West my home and engaging with the community. It is a special place and I’m honored to have the opportunity to be part of the next chapter for LKMC.” 
 
Bigby is a Fellow of the American College of Health Executives, and received his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in business administration from Auburn University.
 
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, and American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Center.

KEY WEST, Fla. – On February 26, 2025, Lower Keys Medical Center celebrated nine team members at the Annual Employee Awards dinner and recognized employees with milestone years of service.
 
Dito Garmendia, clinic supervisor, was named Employee of the Year for Keys Medical Group. Colleagues noted Dito’s flexibility, willingness to help, and his ability to stand up to challenges.
 
Eddie Bushey, behavioral health RN, received the Employee of the Year award for Lower Keys Medical Center’s Depoo campus. Coworkers recognized Eddie for his creativity, empathy and support of colleagues.
 
Kathleen Scott, human resources business partner, received the non-clinical Employee of the Year award. Peers noted Kathleen’s endurance, strength, patience, and kindness.
 
Patrick Pritchett, occupational therapist, was named clinical, non-RN Employee of the Year for his excellent performance, unwavering dedication, and significant contributions to the team’s success.
 
Melissa Robinson, education coordinator, was recognized with the clinical RN Employee of the Year for saying yes to new challenges and responsibilities, including coordination of the hospital’s chest pain accreditation and leading a successful re-accreditation survey.
 
Monica Diaz, director of patient access, received the non-clinical Director of the Year Award for her dedication, innovation, and leadership. Colleagues recognized Monica’s commitment to helping patients understand all of their options, reducing stress and uncertainty.
 
Donna Taylor, medical surgical unit director, was named clinical Director of the Year for helping to create a positive culture within the team and personally visiting every patient every day so they understand that she is ready to help them.
 
Pamela Goodwin, behavioral health RN, was honored with the LKMC Nursing Excellence Award for her positive attitude and focus on team work and safety, ensuring that patients and staff have a strong sense of security.
 
Janis Adams, director of care management, received the Frank Houtman Award, named in honor of a long-serving volunteer, in recognition of her volunteerism and support for numerous community organizations and events.
 
Employees achieving milestone years of service include:
 
5 years: Sherry Burden, Debora Cameron, Selena Davis, Renee Geiger, Shannon Lunn Gillespie, Vonda Lee, Sherri Madden, Virginia Matea, Elizabeth Manfrediz, Audrey MacKinnon, Cindy McKenna, and Anthony Riggio.
 
10 years: Joshua Clark, Jolene Evans, Maggie Evans, Paula Mallard, Mark Pershing, Stanley Santiago, M.D., and Norman Tingle, M.D.
 
15 years: Carline Cineus, Catherine Dehanas, Gregory Delong, M.D., Leslie Gomez, Amy Manzanarez, Sean McGrath, and Patricia Grills, in memoriam.
 
20 years: Lenora Banks, Kristi Kuchinsky, and Michelle Maxey.
 
25 years: Halina Duszka.
 
35 years: Vickie Quinn.
 
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, and American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Center.

KEY WEST, Fla. (February 28, 2025) –Lower Keys Medical Center is kicking off its annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive benefitting SOS Foundation Stock Island Food Pantry and is inviting community members to participate in this effort to fight hunger in the local area. Peanut butter is a sought after item for food banks because of its high nutritional value and long shelf life. Yet, it is one of the least donated items. The Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive kicks off on March 3, 2025 and will run through March 24, 2025. In anticipation of the drive, over 40 jars of peanut butter have already been donated by employees and the hospital’s Nutrition Services department.

“Lower Keys Medical Center not only supports the patients who come through our doors, we are also committed to supporting better health throughout our community,” said Dr. Sal Perla, Interim CEO. “With the Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive we can help a vital community organization reduce hunger in our area.” 

Tiffany Pellicier, Director of Community Impact with United Way of Collier and the Keys, a partner organization which supports SOS Foundation, said, “Too many of our neighbors are making impossible decisions – choosing between rent, electricity, or putting food on the table. According to the latest ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) report, 43% of households in Monroe County are living paycheck to paycheck, and 13% of residents are food insecure. Our latest data reveals the monthly cost to feed a family of four is $1,310. These are hardworking families who simply don’t earn enough to cover basic needs. No one in our community should have to wonder where their next meal will come from.”
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Residents in the Lower Keys are invited to participate. Donations of peanut butter – and sunflower, almond, and soy butters – can be dropped off at the Front Desk in the main lobby of Lower Keys Medical Center, Mondays through Saturdays, from 7 am to 7 pm.