Orlando Health to Shut Down Rockledge Hospital, Citing High Repair Costs
The decision comes just months after Orlando Health acquired the 298-bed hospital in October 2024 as part of a $439 million deal that included two other hospitals from Steward Health Care.
Orlando Health will close Rockledge Hospital on April 22, citing the facility's deteriorating condition and excessive repair costs. The decision comes just months after Orlando Health acquired the 298-bed hospital in October 2024 as part of a $439 million deal that included two other hospitals from Steward Health Care.
In addition to shutting down the hospital, Orlando Health will close four associated outpatient facilities. The company has pledged to build a new hospital in Brevard County but has not specified a location or timeline.
Hospital’s Condition Cited as Key Reason for Closure
Orlando Health officials stated that extensive inspections following the acquisition revealed severe structural and system failures within Rockledge Hospital, making renovation financially unfeasible.
"We’ve learned through inspections by professional architects and engineers that the facility and its systems—like electrical, HVAC, and plumbing—are failing," Orlando Health said in an internal memo. "Construction of a new hospital within the region may take several years, which is longer than our experts feel Rockledge Hospital can realistically remain open."
While the hospital is currently profitable, Orlando Health officials maintain that its physical condition does not align with the company’s standards for patient care.
"When we acquired Rockledge Hospital last fall, the organization was aware that the facility was in poor condition and did not meet our standards for patient-care environments," said Ohme Entin, senior vice president of Orlando Health East Region. "Following in-depth inspections that could only occur after the acquisition, it was determined that the cost to repair and renovate the Rockledge Hospital property far exceeds that of a new, state-of-the-art hospital."
Orlando Health has confirmed that once the facility shuts down, it will be demolished, and the land sold for redevelopment. The company is also evaluating the future use of its other properties in the surrounding area.
Concerns Over Healthcare Access and Community Impact
The closure has raised concerns about healthcare access in Central Brevard, particularly for Rockledge and Cocoa residents. With Orlando Health yet to confirm whether its new hospital will be located in Rockledge, local officials fear patients will have to travel further for emergency and specialty care.
"We're very disappointed," said Rockledge Mayor Tom Price. "It's a very big deal because we're losing our hospital. It's not good for Rockledge, and it's not good for Cocoa."
Health First, Brevard County’s largest healthcare provider, has acknowledged the challenges posed by the hospital’s condition but emphasized efforts to mitigate the impact.
"We—like the community—have long understood the physical challenges present within the facility, making it difficult to provide safe and accessible care," said Lance Skelly, system director for public and media relations at Health First. "We are examining all options to minimize impacts to our patients and community."
Health First has announced plans to construct two new free-standing emergency departments in Brevard County by 2027, with locations expected to be revealed within the next month. Additionally, the company is ahead of schedule in building a new Cape Canaveral Hospital and Medical Office Building, set to open in early 2027.
The Space Coast Health Foundation also voiced concerns about healthcare access following the closure.
"We understand and appreciate the decision to close the facility," said Johnette Gindling, president and CEO of the foundation. "However, we are concerned about the void this will leave in healthcare access for those in the Rockledge/Cocoa communities."
Employee Transition and Patient Care Continuity
Orlando Health has assured that all Rockledge Hospital employees in good standing will be offered positions within the organization. However, some staff may be required to relocate or commute to other Orlando Health facilities.
For patients, Orlando Health has set up a helpline at 321-637-3030 for appointment rescheduling and general inquiries. Medical records can be accessed via StewardConnect or by calling 321-636-2211, ext. 4.
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