HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital Celebrates 50 Years of Caring for the Community

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital commemorated a half-century of service to the community with a grand celebration marking its 50th anniversary. Since its founding in 1974, the hospital has stood as a pillar of healthcare excellence, evolving alongside the vibrant community it serves. 

Zach McCluskey, chief executive officer at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, welcomed hospital and community leaders, care team members and other guests to the milestone event. McCluskey expressed gratitude to colleagues, physicians, volunteers, community members, and partners for their unwavering support throughout the hospital's five journey. 

"In 1974, a group of visionary physicians joined forces to establish what was then the General Hospital of Fort Walton Beach," McCluskey said. "Their pioneering spirit laid the foundation for our enduring commitment to the care and improvement of human life." 

From its early days with 42 physicians and 172 employees, the hospital has grown exponentially. Today, it employs over 1,200 dedicated care and support team members, including more than 400 skilled physicians, and a comprehensive range of services including two freestanding emergency rooms, an inpatient rehabilitation facility.  

During the celebration, Chaplain Ray Sansom led a prayer and blessing, reflecting on the hospital's journey and its future. 

Mayor Dick Rynearson of Fort Walton Beach presented a proclamation highlighting the hospital's contributions to the community.  

"HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital has been a cornerstone of our city, providing exceptional care and service for 50 years," Mayor Rynearson remarked. 

In recognition of the hospital’s 50th anniversary, and in support of education and future healthcare professionals, the hospital has pledged $50,000 to Northwest Florida State College for health sciences scholarships over the next five years. The hospital recently made the first installment of this pledge, donating $10,000 to the radiology program and $10,000 to nursing program scholarships. 

“Northwest Florida State College is dedicated to equipping our students for essential roles in local healthcare,” said Dr. Cristie Kedroski, Interim President of Northwest Florida State College. “We couldn't achieve this without the generous support of HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, which has provided scholarships and program assistance for many years. This partnership helps remove financial barriers for our nursing and radiography students, ensuring we can serve our community's needs effectively.” 

The State of Florida has established a grant program entitled Linking Industry to Nursing Education, or L.I.N.E. Grant. This grant provides matching funds to NWFSC for gifts from healthcare providers to their nursing program which means that the $10,000 gift will become $20,000 worth of scholarships for nursing students. 

McCluskey concluded the event, stating, "From all of us at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, thank you for contributing to this extraordinary journey. Here's to the next 50 years of excellence, compassion, and quality care." 

For more information about HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and its services, visit HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.