Health First @Health_First

Mike Maguire believed everyone in Brevard County deserved access to compassionate, high-quality healthcare close to home. That belief helped shape Health First into the connected healthcare system it is today. A decorated World War II veteran, community leader and philanthropist, Mike played a key role in the creation of Health First in 1995, served as chair of the first Health First Board of Trustees and continued supporting Health First for decades. Mike passed away on May 9, 2026, at the age of 99, leaving behind a lasting legacy of service, leadership and generosity. We are honored to carry his vision forward and continue working to improve the health and wellness of our community. 💜 Read about Mike's remarkable life, his impact on Health First and the legacy he leaves behind: ow.ly/1hyJ50ZysOr

When you or a loved one needs medical care, one question often comes up: Should we go to urgent care or the ER? Health First Lead Medical Director for Emergency Departments Corey Alvarez, MD, explains the key differences between urgent care and the emergency room, what each is equipped to treat, and how to make the best decision when every minute matters. ✔️ Urgent care is a great option for minor illnesses and injuries like colds, sprains, ear infections, rashes, and urinary symptoms. 🚨 If you're experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of a stroke, a serious injury, or another life-threatening emergency, go to the emergency room or call 911 immediately. Read the full article to learn how making the right decision can help you get the care you need, when you need it most: ow.ly/IQKs50ZysbN #BrevardUrgentCare #BrevardER

Meet Ruben Abreu, MD, a cardiologist now seeing patients at 1223 Gateway Drive, Suite 2F, Melbourne. Dr. Abreu believes the best outcomes begin with a strong partnership between physician and patient. He takes a collaborative approach to care, ensuring every treatment plan is tailored to each patient's unique needs, priorities and long-term health goals. Learn more about Dr. Abreu and schedule an appointment: ow.ly/Q8eW50Ztrua #CardiologyMelbourneFL #HealthFirstProviders

Have questions about your heart health? Our experts are here to help! ❤️ Join us for a free, informative event where you can ask our expert panel of physicians your most pressing questions about heart health and cardiovascular conditions. Gain practical insights into prevention, treatment options, and steps you can take to support your heart health. 📆 Wednesday, August 26, 2026 | 12 to 1:30 p.m. 📍 Banyan Estates, 1490 Marie Street, Malabar, FL 32950 ✔️ Check-in begins at 11:30 a.m. 🍽️ Enjoy a light lunch and refreshments upon arrival. Register now to secure your seat at hf.org/heart2heart #CardiovascularCare #HeartHealth #FreeEvent

This week, members of Health First's First Flight team joined partners from Brevard County Ocean Rescue, Cocoa Beach Fire Department, Cocoa Beach Police Department, and Brevard County Fire Rescue for a large-scale ocean rescue training exercise. 🌊 With millions of visitors enjoying Brevard County’s beaches and waterways each year, these moments of preparation help ensure our community has the support it needs when emergencies happen. Learn more about this training and the teamwork behind emergency response in our community: spacecoastdaily.com/2026/08/health… #BrevardCountyEmergencyResponse #CommunityPreparedness #HealthFirstCares

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As families prepare for a new school year, Health First Medical Group provider Amy Cannon, APRN, shares simple ways parents can help their kids feel ready—physically, emotionally and mentally. Here are 7 ways to start the year strong: 1️⃣ Schedule important appointments to stay ahead of physicals, vaccines, dental visits and school forms. 2️⃣ Reset routines early by adjusting sleep schedules, mealtimes and daily habits before the first day. 3️⃣ Talk about feelings and watch for signs of back-to-school anxiety. 4️⃣ Stay safe in the heat by encouraging hydration before, during and after activities. 5️⃣ Prevent the spread of illness with healthy habits like handwashing and staying home when sick. 6️⃣ Connect with the school nurse and make sure medication plans and health forms are ready. 7️⃣ Get organized by adding important school dates and events to your calendar early. Read the full article for more tips on helping your child transition into the school year with confidence: ow.ly/OXvb50ZwK6H #WellnessWednesday #BackToSchool #SchoolYearPrep #BrevardSchools

Join us for our Walk-in Wednesday hiring events throughout the month of August at the Health First locations below.⬇️ Talk to our recruiters, connect face-to-face with Health First leaders, and learn more about how we work together to build a future around living well and healing well. 💜 Find the event for you: hf.org/careerevents

Meet Edwin, an oncology nurse at the Health First Infusion Center. Oncology nurses play a vital role in helping patients navigate some of life’s most challenging moments. That's why Edwin makes it a priority to get to know his patients and their families while supporting them through each step of care. He’s there for the routine visits, the tough days, and the milestones in between. Kick-start your career at Health First. Explore nursing opportunities and open positions at hf.org/careers. *Given the sensitivity of cancer treatment, this video features a reenactment and does not include real patients.

🎉 Congratulations to Health First Cardiac Electrophysiologist Vishal Patel, MD, on completing his 100th AVEIR™ procedure! The AVEIR procedure uses a tiny, leadless pacemaker that's placed directly inside the heart to help regulate abnormal heart rhythms—without the traditional wires used in conventional pacemakers. For Dr. Patel, the milestone is about much more than a number: "Reaching my 100th AVEIR leadless pacemaker implant is a meaningful milestone, but what matters most are the people behind that number. Each implant represents someone who can spend more time with family, stay active, or simply feel more confident in their day-to-day life. My team and I are grateful for the trust my patients place in us and proud to care for this community." Thank you to Dr. Patel and our entire cardiovascular team for their dedication to delivering exceptional care. Milestones like this reflect our commitment to bringing advanced care to our community and expanding access to innovative treatment options close to home. 💜 Learn more at hf.org/heart. #CardiologyBrevard #HealthFirstHeartHealth #HealthFirstCares

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Meet Rachel Brock, MD, a board-certified ear, nose and throat (ENT) physician, now caring for patients in Rockledge at 6525 3rd Street, Suite 208. Dr. Brock believes that the best care starts with clear communication, empowering patients to understand their options and make informed decisions about their health. Learn more about Dr. Brock and schedule an appointment: ow.ly/HnxO50Ztrr0 #ENTSpecialist #HealthFirstProviders #ENTRockledge

From knee pain to back problems, orthopedic concerns can impact people at every stage of life. That’s why we recently welcomed our community to a free Orthopedic and Spine Lunch & Learn, where our experts shared insights on everything from prevention to treatment options. A key takeaway from the conversation: there is no one-size-fits-all approach to orthopedic care. Every person’s needs are different, and factors like age, activity level, overall health, and lifestyle all play a role in developing the right treatment plan. Thank you to our panelists for sharing their expertise and answering questions from our community: • Dr. Devin Datta, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon • Dr. Sara Lewis, Podiatrist & Foot and Ankle Surgeon • Dr. Brent Stephens, Orthopedic Surgeon • Dr. Kyle Rockwell, Non-Operative Sports Medicine Physician • Dr. Carlos Williams, Orthopedic Surgeon Learn more about the advice shared during the event in the full article: ow.ly/H3T250ZvVAI Learn more about our orthopedic and spine specialists at: ow.ly/TNVm50ZvVAG #HealthFirstOrthopedics #OrthopedicSurgeryBrevard #SportsMedicineBrevard #JointHealth #SpineHealth

Recent reports show leprosy cases rising in Central Florida. What does that mean for you and your family? The good news: there is no need to panic. Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is rare, treatable and is not easily spread through everyday interactions. “Simply sitting with someone, shaking their hand or sharing a meal does not spread the infection,” said Dr. Amin, Chief Medical Officer at Health First. “Transmission typically requires prolonged, close household contact over many months to years.” Leprosy is caused by a bacteria that primarily affects the skin and nerves. Symptoms may include: ➡️ Light or reddish patches of skin with decreased sensation ➡️ Numbness or loss of feeling in affected areas ➡️ Muscle weakness If you notice unusual symptoms or have concerns, talk with your healthcare provider or visit an urgent care clinic. Find a location near you at ow.ly/myt850ZtO09 What else you need to know about Leprosy in Florida: ow.ly/vwqo50ZtO0b #HealthFirstCares #LeprosyAwareness #HansensDisease

Join us for the Hospice of Health First Volunteer Open House to meet our team, explore volunteer opportunities and discover how your time and talents can bring comfort, connection and support to hospice patients and their families. Tour our facility, hear from current volunteers, meet our Hounds of Hospice therapy dogs and learn more about roles ranging from patient companionship and veteran recognition to Bright Star grief support, pharmacy deliveries, office support and so much more. 📅 Thursday, August 13 🕐 1 to 4 p.m. 📍 Hospice of Health First 1131 W. New Haven Ave., Suite 102 West Melbourne, FL 32904 Ready to make a difference? Call 321.434.1790 or email [email protected] to RSVP. #VolunteerOpportunitiesBrevard #HospiceOfHealthFirst #HealthFirstVolunteer

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Cold and flu season fills waiting rooms later in the year. Summer is a great time to schedule your annual wellness visit, update preventive screenings, and discuss any health concerns before life gets busy again. Schedule your annual check-up: ow.ly/4maH50ZoA7h #AnnualCheckUp #PreventiveCare #HealthFirstPrimaryCare

Can you rely on AI for mental health support? As tools like ChatGPT become part of everyday life, more people are turning to AI for emotional support, self-reflection and mental health advice. While these tools can provide information, coping strategies and help identify patterns, Health First Behavioral Services Clinical Manager DeAnn Collins, MSW, LCSW, reminds us why AI should be used as a resource, not a replacement for professional care. Read the full article to learn more about the benefits and risks of using AI for mental health: ow.ly/rSMi50ZtNLY *If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available. Call 211 to find local mental health and community resources, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911 if there is immediate danger. #HealthFirstBehavioralHealth #AIAndMentalHealth #MentalHealthBrevardCounty

Fresh, nutritious food can do more than feed a family. It can provide peace of mind, giving families the stability they need to focus on their health, their loved ones and what matters most. A $20,000 Health First Wellness Grant is helping the Sharing Center of Central Brevard expand its Nourish 32922 program, providing eligible families with access to fresh produce and food assistance every 30 days. By partnering with local nonprofits, we're helping improve the health and wellness of our community by increasing access to nutritious food and addressing food insecurity. Read more about this partnership: ow.ly/gSx750ZtlHp #HealthFirstCares #CommunityWellness #NonprofitBrevard #FoodAssistance

Another great Future Nurse Night! 💜 This week, students, new graduates, and experienced nurses connected with our team to learn more about careers at Health First, explore opportunities, and take the next step in their healthcare journey. With more than a dozen interviews scheduled and some on-the-spot job offers extended, the evening was filled with exciting opportunities and meaningful conversations. Missed the event? Stay up to date on upcoming Future Nurse Nights and other career events at hf.org/careerevents. Ready to join our team? Explore our current openings at hf.org/careers. #FutureNurseNight #NursingCareers #BrevardCountyJobs #HealthFirstCareers

Meet Cameron Humes, ACNPC-AG, a board-certified Orthopedic Surgery provider now caring for patients in Melbourne at 2222 S. Harbor City Blvd., Suite 420. He focuses on compassionate, supportive care and guiding patients through every step of their treatment experience. To learn more and schedule an appointment with Cameron, visit ow.ly/7USq50Zp60B #OrthopedicCareBrevard #OrthopedicSurgery #MelbourneFL #HealthFirstProvider

It’s World Brain Day, a great reminder that caring for your brain is an important part of caring for your overall health. 💜 Simple habits can help support your brain for years to come. Caring for your brain also means recognizing when something isn't right. When it comes to stroke, knowing how to BE FAST can make a life-changing difference: Balance – Sudden loss of balance or coordination Eyes – Sudden vision changes Face – Face drooping Arms – Arm weakness or numbness Speech – Slurred speech or difficulty speaking Time – Call 911 immediately. When it comes to stroke, every second matters. #WellnessWednesday #WorldBrainDay #BrainHealth #StrokeAwareness

Join our team of experts for a free community event focused on helping you find the right path for your weight loss journey. Learn about: ✔️Nutrition and healthy lifestyle changes. ✔️Physician-guided weight loss and surgical options. ✔️Ongoing weight loss support. Your questions will help shape the conversation, so come ready to ask what's on your mind. 📅 Thursday, August 27 🕕 6 to 8 p.m. 📍 Suntree Country Club 300 Country Club Drive Melbourne, FL 32940 Check-in begins at 5:45 p.m. 🍽️ Complimentary refreshments and small plates will be provided. Visit hf.org/barievent to reserve your seat today!