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Marcus Neuroscience Institute to Host 2026 Brain & Spine Symposium

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

BOCA RATON, Fla. — April 6, 2026 — Marcus Neuroscience Institute, part of Baptist Health South Florida, will host its two-day 2026 Brain & Spine Symposium on May 14 and 15, bringing together leading physicians, researchers, and clinical experts to share the latest advances in neuroscience through lectures, interactive panel discussions, and case-based presentations.

Faculty will discuss the latest evidence-based practices in brain and spine surgery, interventional pain management, neurodegenerative diseases, multiple sclerosis, movement disorders, epilepsy, stroke, neuromuscular disorders, cognitive and behavioral neurology, neurorehabilitation, minimally invasive and robotic spine techniques, cerebrovascular disease, and other key areas of neuroscience medicine. Additional sessions will highlight advances in diagnostics, treatment innovation, multidisciplinary care, complex case management, and emerging research that is helping shape the future of neurosciences care.

“We welcome the opportunity to host this important symposium and bring together experts to discuss the latest advances in neuroscience care,” said Warren R. Selman, M.D., chief medical executive of Marcus Neuroscience Institute. “Events like this reflect Baptist Health’s commitment to advancing innovation, education, and collaboration, while helping connect patients to the most effective treatment options available.”

Among the physician researchers and experts presenting at the symposium are:

Marcalee S. Alexander, M.D. — Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Physician; Director, Marcus Neuroscience Institute, Cornell Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine, Bethesda Hospital East, Baptist Health South Florida
Marc S. Cohen, M.D. — Anesthesiologist and Interventional Pain Management Physician, Baptist Health Boca Raton Regional Hospital
Elias Dakwar, M.D., FAANS — Board-Certified Neurosurgeon; Medical Director of the Deformity Spine Surgery Program, Marcus Neuroscience Institute, Baptist Health South Florida
Felipe De Los Rios La Rosa, M.D. — Cerebrovascular Neurologist; Irma Bass Endowed Chair in Stroke Neurology; Director, Stroke Program, Baptist Health Miami Neuroscience Institute
Svetlana Faktorovich, M.D. — Neurologist; Director of Neuromuscular Medicine, Marcus Neuroscience Institute, Boca Raton Regional Hospital, Baptist Health South Florida
G. Peter Gliebus, M.D., FAAN — Medical Director, Cognitive and Behavioral Program; Associate Professor of Neurology, Marcus Neuroscience Institute; Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine
Sameea Husain, D.O. — Director, Movement Disorders Neurology; Associate Professor of Neurology, Marcus Neuroscience Institute, Boca Raton Regional Hospital, Baptist Health South Florida; Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University
Constance V. Katsafanas, D.O. — Director of Stroke Neurology; Associate Professor; Program Director, Neurology Residency, Marcus Neuroscience Institute, Boca Raton Regional Hospital, Baptist Health South Florida; Florida Atlantic University
Timothy O’Connor, M.D., FACP — Director, Minimally Invasive and Robotic Spine Surgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Marcus Neuroscience Institute; Bethesda Hospital; Boca Raton Regional Hospital; Baptist Health South Florida
Evan M. Packer, M.D., MBA, FAANS, FACS — Neurosurgeon; Medical Director, Neurosurgery, Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; Marcus Neuroscience Institute; Boca Raton Regional Hospital; Baptist Health South Florida
Warren R. Selman, M.D. — Neurosurgeon; Chief Medical Executive, Marcus Neuroscience Institute

The full symposium agenda, including session topics and the complete list of guest speakers, is available here:
Day 1: https://cmeonline.baptisthealth.net/brainandspine#group-tabs-node-course-default2
Day 2: https://cmeonline.baptisthealth.net/brainandspine#group-tabs-node-course-default2

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About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 29,000 employees, 4,500 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and the Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate ofFlorida International University. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News & World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

I-wen Wang, M.D., Joins Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

MIAMI, FL – April 2, 2026 – Board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon I-wen Wang, M.D., Ph.D., has joined Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, part of Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care, as director of perfusion, bringing internationally recognized expertise in adult heart transplantation, mechanical circulatory support, perfusion and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

Dr. Wang specializes in the surgical management of advanced heart failure, including heart transplantation, ventricular assist devices and temporary mechanical circulatory support systems for patients in cardiogenic shock. His clinical focus includes the use of ECMO and advanced perfusion strategies to stabilize critically ill patients and support heart function when the heart or lungs are unable to work effectively. He has served as chief of adult heart transplantation and mechanical circulatory support and director of adult ECMO services at major academic programs. Most recently, he helped to develop and lead a high-performing transplant and ECMO program recognized for clinical excellence.

“We are proud to welcome Dr. Wang to Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute,” said Tom C. Nguyen, M.D., chief medical executive of Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care, director of minimally invasive surgery, Barry T. Katzen Endowed Chair at Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, and professor and chair of the Department of Cardiovascular Sciences at Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. “His depth of experience in heart transplantation and mechanical circulatory support strengthens our ability to care for patients with the most complex forms of heart disease. Dr. Wang’s leadership in ECMO and advanced heart failure therapies will further enhance our multidisciplinary approach to delivering lifesaving care.”

Dr. Wang earned his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. He completed his general surgery residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, followed by cardiothoracic surgery residency training at the University of Michigan Medical Center and a cardiothoracic transplant and ventricular assist device fellowship at Washington University Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. He also holds Bachelor of Science, Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in macromolecular science and engineering from Case Western Reserve University, graduating with high honors.

“Dr. Wang’s clinical expertise and commitment to innovation align seamlessly with Baptist Health’s mission to advance cardiovascular care,” said Ashford Denman, vice president of operations for Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care. “His experience building and leading complex heart programs will help us continue expanding access to advanced therapies for patients across our region.”

Dr. Wang works closely with cardiologists, heart failure specialists and multidisciplinary teams to achieve excellence in complex cardiovascular care driven by compassion, passion and innovation. He believes coordinated precision, evidence-based care and patient-centered focus are essential to providing compassionate service to the community

He is fluent in Mandarin Chinese. Dr. Wang will see patients at 18950 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 600W, Miami. To schedule an appointment, call 786-596-1230 or visit BaptistHealth.net/Heart.

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About Baptist Health

Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 29,000 employees, 4,000 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and The Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News & World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

Fortune Media and Great Place To Work Name Baptist Health South Florida to ‘100 Best Companies to Work For’ in 2026, Ranking No. 45

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

MIAMI, FL – April 1, 2026 – Fortune media and Great Place To Work® have recognized Baptist Health South Florida as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® in 2026.

This is Baptist Health’s 26^th time being named to this national list, this year coming in at No. 45. It is the highest-ranked Florida-based company on the list and the only healthcare system in the state honored. Baptist Health is one of only 10 healthcare organizations on this year’s list.

The 100 Best Companies to Work For list honors companies that build a high-trust workplace environment, measured by Great Place To Work. Confidential feedback from more than 1.3 million employees in the U.S. is matched against HR data. Only companies with consistently high survey responses across the 60 statements that comprise the Trust Index™ Survey are honored with placement on the list.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this national recognition, which reflects our welcoming culture and the dedication we have to fostering a supportive environment for our employees,” said Bo Boulenger, president and chief executive officer of Baptist Health. “Our organization is built on shared values that bring our teams together around a common purpose: providing compassionate, high-quality care for the communities we serve. That commitment continues to shape Baptist Health as an exceptional place to work and make a meaningful difference.”

The Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list is highly competitive. Companies are assessed on their ability to create a great employee experience that cuts across job level, business unit, demographic group or geographic location.

“Trust in the organization is a leading indicator of business performance,” says Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place To Work. “When employees trust their leaders, they are more willing to give extra effort, embrace innovation like new AI tools, and deliver a better experience to customers.”

"Fortune is proud to collaborate with Great Place To Work for the 29th year to recognize the 100 Best Companies to Work For. Amid a fast-evolving workplace landscape, employees said these organizations continue to set the standard for cultures built on trust, innovation, and care for their people. Congratulations to all who earned a place on this year’s list,” says Alyson Shontell, Fortune editor in chief and chief content officer.

Baptist Health was named on Fortune’s most recent Best Workplaces in Health Care list, ranking #3 in the large companies category and it was the highest-ranked healthcare system in Florida. It was also named to Fortune’s Best Workplaces for Women list.

About Baptist Health

Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 29,000 employees, 4,500 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and the Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News & World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

About the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For

Great Place To Work selected the 100 Best list by gathering and analyzing more than 1.3 million confidential survey responses in 2025, representing the experiences of more than 7.3 million U.S. employees. Of those, nearly 640,000 responses were received from employees at eligible companies, and this list is based on that feedback. Organizations are assessed on their efforts to create generous, supportive, high-performance work experiences for every employee in the organization. Companies must be Great Place To Work Certified™ with 1,000 or more employees in the U.S. and cannot be a government agency. Read the full methodology.

About Great Place To Work

As the global authority on workplace culture, Great Place To Work, a UKG company, brings 30 years of groundbreaking research and data to help every place become a great place to work for all. Its proprietary platform and Great Place To Work Model help companies evaluate the experience of every employee, with exemplary workplaces becoming Great Place To Work Certified and receiving recognition on a coveted Best Workplaces list.

Follow Great Place To Work on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram, and sign up for Great Place To Work LinkedIn newsletter, Culture Edge, to get the latest research on what drives business success.

es and their leaders, as well as a new generation of innovators who are moving business forward. Digitally and in print, Fortune measures corporate performance through rigorous benchmarks and holds companies accountable in regions around the world. Its iconic rankings include Fortune 500, Fortune Global 500, Most Powerful Women, and World's Most Admired Companies. Fortune builds world-class communities by convening industry thought leaders for exclusive summits and conferences, including the Fortune Global Forum, Fortune Brainstorm Tech, and Fortune Most Powerful Women. For more information, visit fortune.com.

Surabhi Ranjan, MBBS, FACP, Joins The Eugene M. and Christine E. Lynn Cancer Institute as a Neuro-Oncologist

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

BOCA RATON, FL – April 1, 2026 – Dual board-certified neuro-oncologist Surabhi Ranjan, MBBS, FACP, has joined the Eugene M. and Christine E. Lynn Cancer Institute, part of Baptist Health, at Boca Raton Regional Hospital. Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in neurology and the United Council for Neurologic Subspecialties in neuro-oncology, she specializes in the comprehensive management of brain metastasis and gliomas.

Prior to joining Baptist Health, Dr. Ranjan was a section leader of neuro-oncology at Cleveland Clinic Florida in Weston.

“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Ranjan to our multidisciplinary cancer care team, dedicated to providing our patients with the highest quality care,” said Louise Morrell, M.D., chief medical executive at Lynn Cancer Institute.

Dr. Ranjan earned her medical degree at Seth G.S. Medical College and K.E.M. Hospital in Mumbai, India. After completing an internal medicine internship at New York Medical College, Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, NY, she completed a neurology residency at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA. Her clinical training also includes a neuro-oncology fellowship at the National Institutes of Health/Johns Hopkins University joint program in Baltimore, MD.

Dr. Ranjan is actively involved in research and focused on advancing clinical trial development and patient access to clinical trials. She has published her research findings in peer-review publications and presented at national conferences. She serves as a reviewer for BMC Neurology and the Journal of Neuro-Oncology. She also contributes to the medical community as a fellow of the American College of Physicians and member of several professional organizations.

Committed to a whole-patient approach, Dr. Ranjan places a high priority on neurological restoration and symptom management rather than simply treating clinical indications. “I care for my patients as if they were my own family or friends,” she said. “I am deeply rewarded when their neurological condition and mental health improve.”

Dr. Ranjan is fluent in English and Hindi. She will see patients at two Lynn Cancer Institute locations: The Center for Hematology Oncology, 701 NW 13 Street, Second Floor, Boca Raton, FL 33486; and The Center for Hematology Oncology, 6282 Linton Blvd., Delray Beach, FL 33484.

About Baptist Health

Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 28,000 employees, 4,500 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and the Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News & World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

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Bounce Back from Cancer™ Event Raises Over $7 Million for Cancer Research

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

MIAMI, FL – March 27, 2026 – More than 2,000 people, including 167 teams, participated in Bounce Back from Cancer^TM, a partnership between Baptist Health Foundation and the Miami HEAT, on Saturday, March 14. The annual event raised over $7 million for research at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute, part of Baptist Health Cancer Care.

Now in its seventh year, Bounce Back from Cancer brought the community together to dribble basketballs or walk through the streets of Miami to help fulfill the Institute’s vision of a world without cancer. The event was supported by cancer survivors and their families and friends, leaders and staff from the Miami HEAT and Baptist Health, sports fans and many others.

“It’s incredibly inspiring to experience the energy of this community, uniting to put an end to this heartbreaking disease,” said event chair Jorge Rico, co-founder and managing partner of MBF Healthcare Partners. “The caring and compassion from everyone involved, in addition to the funds raised, makes a tremendous impact for those fighting cancer.”

The Miami HEAT’s Udonis Haslem served as the event’s celebrity ambassador for the fifth year in a row. Haslem addressed the participants — who chose from 14.2-, 6- and two-miles courses and received completion medals — at the Kaseya Center finish line celebration.

“The research program at Miami Cancer Institute is growing rapidly, and funds from Bounce Back from Cancer help power its progress in cancer treatments,” remarked Joe Natoli, executive vice president and chief administrative officer for Baptist Health. “The collective support of our Bounce Back participants — including top fundraisers like our ‘Hall of Fame’ — continues to grow. We couldn’t be more grateful.”

In addition to the Miami HEAT, sponsors for Bounce Back from Cancer included Title Sponsor Kaseya; Presenting Sponsors S&K Worldwide Realty, LLC and Terra; Official Time Out Sponsor Pinecrest Bakery; Start Line Presenting Sponsors American Centennial, DPR Construction and NV2A a MasTec Company; Diamond Sponsor Palm Medical Centers; Platinum Sponsors Adelanto Health Ventures, Baker Tilly x Berkowitz Pollack Brant | Provenance Wealth Advisors, El Car Wash, MasTec, ServiceNow and Vilar-Hoynack Construction Co.; Gold Sponsors Al-Flex Exterminators, Epic, Florida Blue, Florida Panthers Foundation, Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), Gresham Smith, Perry Ellis International and the Nateman Family (Urgent Care Physicians). Silver, Bronze and Supporter level sponsors and underwriters also contributed to the event.

Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer for The HEAT Group John Vidalin remarked, “The Miami HEAT has a longstanding commitment to support the South Florida community. We are incredibly proud of our partnership with Baptist Health and Miami Cancer Institute to help fund research that will improve outcomes and defeat cancer for good.”

To donate or learn more about Bounce Back from Cancer, visit BounceBackfromCancer.net. Fundraising continues through March 31.

About Baptist Health Foundation

The mission of Baptist Health Foundation is to inspire philanthropy and build extraordinary donor relationships in support of excellence, innovation, community wellness and global leadership in healthcare at Baptist Health South Florida. Through philanthropy, the Foundation supports and expands Baptist Health’s ability to provide outstanding patient care and bring the latest treatments to patients and families affected by a serious illness. Donor contributions also allow the Foundation to assist Baptist Health facilities in keeping pace with technology and equipment advances, perform cutting-edge research and offer continuing education opportunities to medical staff. Learn more at BaptistHealth.net/Foundation and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.

Baptist Health Foundation is part of Baptist Health, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 28,000 employees, 4,000 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and The Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News and World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

About Kaseya Center

Located in the center of booming downtown Miami and the Entertainment District, Kaseya Center—home of the three-time NBA Champion Miami HEAT—hosts 80+ non-basketball events each year including A-list concerts, family shows, sporting events, national conferences and more. Built with state-of-the-art sound and lighting and HD and electronic media signage inside and out, the impressive 19,600-seat Kaseya Center is currently ranked the #1 arena in Florida for the ninth consecutive year—and the 12th time during the past 13 years—according to both Pollstar and Billboard’s 2023 year-end rankings. Kaseya Center is also among the leading facilities in the country for hosting Latin entertainment. The Center has led the renaissance of downtown Miami over the past two decades, helping to transform the area into a thriving arts and entertainment district. The facility has hosted more than 1,200 events including diverse musical superstars such as Marc Anthony, Celine Dion, Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, New Edition, The Killers, Bad Bunny, Carrie Underwood, Dua Lipa, Tool, Imagine Dragons, Kane Brown, Karol G, Drake, Andrea Bocelli and Paul McCartney, just to name a few. In 2009, Kaseya Center became among the first existing buildings in the country to have achieved LEED certification by the United States Green Building Council for its commitment to sustainability practices. More recently, in 2021, the Arena achieved its second LEED gold recertification. For more information about Kaseya Center, visit kaseyacenter.com.

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Zack Z. Ramilevich, M.D., Joins Marcus Neuroscience Institute as a General Neurologist

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

BOCA RATON, FL – March 25, 2026 – Board-certified neurologist Zack Z. Ramilevich, M.D., has joined Marcus Neuroscience Institute, part of Baptist Health, as a general neurologist. He provides comprehensive care for adults with a wide range of neurological conditions, with experience treating headache disorders, dementia, stroke, neuropathy, Parkinson’s disease, autoimmune neurological conditions and adult epilepsy.

Dr. Ramilevich is committed to delivering holistic, patient-centered neurological care. He emphasizes building a strong therapeutic alliance with each patient by developing informative, supportive and comprehensive treatment plans. His approach combines evidence-based medical management with personalized strategies to ensure patients receive the highest quality care.

“Dr. Ramilevich strengthens our neurology team with broad training in general neurology, a dedication to research and a compassionate approach to patient care,” said Warren Selman, M.D., chief medical executive at Marcus Neuroscience Institute. “His expertise will be a tremendous asset to our patients and our community.”

Dr. Ramilevich earned his medical degree from the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. He completed an internal medicine internship followed by a neurology residency at the University of Florida in Jacksonville, where he was selected to serve as administrative chief resident. During his training, he presented educational lectures to residents and attending physicians on topics including stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation, emerging therapies for Alzheimer’s disease and new treatments for migraine.

He has also contributed to clinical research as a sub-investigator in studies focused on multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, multifocal motor neuropathy and seizure disorders.

Dr. Ramilevich will see patients at 2623 S. Seacrest Blvd., Suite 114, Boynton Beach, Florida, and 800 Meadows Rd., Boca Raton, Florida.

About Baptist Health

Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 29,000 employees, 4,000 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and The Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News and World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

Baptist Health Announces Key Leadership Appointments Across Several South Florida Hospitals

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

CORAL GABLES, FL — March 23, 2026 — Baptist Health has announced several leadership appointments that will support continued growth and operational excellence across the health system’s network. Carlos Hernandez, Nathaniel Ortiz and Drew Grossman will assume new leadership roles beginning May 1, and Raymond Perez has been named executive director of the new Baptist Health Rehabilitation Hospital.

“These leaders reflect our mission-driven culture and commitment to high-quality care and exceptional service,” said Glenn Waters, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Baptist Health. “We are confident they will continue to build on the strong foundation across our system while advancing our strategic priorities and serving the ever-evolving healthcare needs of our communities.”

Carlos Hernandez Named CEO of Baptist Health Doctors Hospital

Carlos Hernandez has been named chief executive officer of Baptist Health Doctors Hospital. He will also serve as executive leader for Baptist Health Orthopedics, strengthening partnerships with South Florida’s premier professional and collegiate sports organizations, including the Miami HEAT, Miami Dolphins, Inter Miami CF and Florida Panthers.

Hernandez most recently served as vice president and chief operating officer for Baptist Health Doctors Hospital and Baptist Health West Kendall Baptist Hospital, where he helped lead strong performance in financial stewardship, quality and safety, patient experience and team engagement.

Nathaniel Ortiz Named CEO of Baptist Health West Kendall Baptist Hospital

Nathaniel Ortiz has been named chief executive officer of Baptist Health West Kendall Baptist Hospital. Ortiz currently serves as chief operating officer at Baptist Health Baptist Hospital and has extensive experience leading complex clinical operations, strategic growth initiatives and large-scale capital projects.

In his current role, Ortiz has helped strengthen operations while advancing innovation across key service lines. He has served as administrative lead for the Surgical Services Steering Committee and chaired the Surgical Technology Committee, where he led the implementation of LeanTaaS, an advanced analytics, data-driven software platform, to support surgical volume growth and operational efficiency.

Drew Grossman Named CEO Advisor for Baptist Health Sunrise Hospital

Drew Grossman will serve as CEO Advisor for Baptist Health Sunrise Hospital, helping guide the hospital’s operational framework as construction progresses. Groundbreaking for Sunrise Hospital recently took place, and the facility is scheduled to open in early 2029.

Grossman will continue in his current role as chief executive officer for Baptist Health Fishermen’s Community Hospital and Baptist Health Mariners Hospital in the Florida Keys while taking on this additional responsibility.

Raymond Perez Named Executive Director of Baptist Health Rehabilitation Hospital

Raymond Perez has been named executive director of the new Baptist Health Rehabilitation Hospital, opening August 2026 in South, Miami, Florida. The new joint-venture rehabilitation hospital with Lifepoint Rehabilitation, an operating division of Lifepoint Health, is a three-story, 100,000-square-foot facility featuring 62 private inpatient rooms that significantly expands our system’s capacity to meet growing community demand for high-quality inpatient rehabilitation care.

Ray brings more than 15 years of leadership in inpatient and post-acute rehabilitation, most recently serving as administrative director of rehabilitation services at Baptist Health Homestead Hospital. In that role, he led a team of more than 150 multidisciplinary professionals and drove significant growth in rehabilitation services, while advancing quality, patient satisfaction and key accreditation milestones.

For more information on Baptist Health leadership, please visit Executive Leadership | Baptist Health South Florida.

About Baptist Health

Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 29,000 employees, 4,500 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and The Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News and World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

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Baptist Health International and Bahamas Wellness Health System Formalize Collaboration to Advance Healthcare in The Bahamas

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Memorandum of Understanding expands clinical collaboration, education and training opportunities in Eleuthera and beyond

MIAMI, FL – March 19, 2026 – Baptist Health International, part of Baptist Health South Florida, and Bahamas Wellness Health System have formalized a new collaboration through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery, professional education and clinical collaboration in The Bahamas.

The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation focused on expanding access to specialized medical expertise, supporting clinical training and observership opportunities, facilitating second medical opinions and promoting multidisciplinary peer-to-peer consultation between physicians.

“This MOU represents an important step forward in our mission to deliver safe, high-quality care that meets international standards,” said Arlington Lightbourne, M.D., president and chief executive officer of Bahamas Wellness Health System and Eleuthera Wellness Hospital. “By collaborating with Baptist Health International, we are creating new opportunities for mentorship, professional development and access to advanced expertise that will directly benefit our patients and care teams.”

Under the agreement, patients treated within the Bahamas Wellness network may access second medical opinions from Baptist Health physicians and receive support with referrals when advanced care is required. The collaboration also explores opportunities for teleconsultation services, and knowledge exchange designed to enhance patient outcomes while reducing the need for travel.

Healthcare professionals within Bahamas Wellness Health System will benefit from educational initiatives that may include participation in symposiums and conferences, clinical observerships and professional training programs supported by Baptist Health International. The agreement also supports the development of best practices, policies and staff education, and guidance for international accreditation readiness.

“Our alliance with Bahamas Wellness Health System reflects Baptist Health International’s commitment to advancing meaningful healthcare connections throughout the Caribbean,” said Rogelio E. Ribas, M.D., Corporate Vice President of Baptist Health International. “Through education, clinical engagement and shared expertise, we aim to support the growth of high-quality healthcare services that strengthen local systems and expand access to specialized care.”

Bahamas Wellness Health System operates Eleuthera Wellness Hospital, the first and only hospital established on a family island in The Bahamas, along with multiple outpatient clinics. The organization provides urgent care, emergency services, hospital admissions and extended outpatient care to communities throughout the region.

About Baptist Health International

Baptist Health International is one of the largest hospital-based international programs in the United States, with more than 14,000 yearly international patient visits at Baptist Health facilities from the Florida Keys to Palm Beach County. Baptist Health International is dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality services for international physicians and their patients, including hospital admissions, outpatient medical exams, electronic medical second opinions and physician consultations, as well as concierge services. For more information, please visit https://baptisthealth.net/international-services. For more information on Baptist Health International’s collaborations and advisory services, please visit https://baptisthealth.net/international-services/international-healthcare-professionals/international-collaborations or email Advisory@baptisthealth.net

About Baptist Health South Florida

About Bahamas Wellness Health System:

Bahamas Wellness Health System is a privately held, community-centric health solutions organization headquartered in Eleuthera, Bahamas, dedicated to delivering affordable, whole-person healthcare across the archipelago. Founded in 2016, BWHS’s mission is to increase access to high-quality care, improve population health outcomes, and empower communities through accessible medical services, preventive care, and wellness programs rooted in compassionate, patient-first values. BWHS operates a growing portfolio of clinical service units — including primary care, urgent care, diagnostic services, wellness coaching, and specialty clinical support — designed to meet the evolving needs of residents and visitors with dignity, excellence, and integrity. For more information, visit www.bahamaswellness.health.

About Eleuthera Wellness Hospital:

Eleuthera Wellness Hospital, located in North Palmetto Point, Eleuthera, represents a transformational expansion of BWHS’s commitment to healthcare access in The Bahamas. As a 24/7 private hospital facility, it stands as the first of its kind on the island, dramatically enhancing local clinical capacity for emergency care, advanced diagnostics (including imaging services), inpatient care, and comprehensive treatment pathways that previously required travel off-island. The hospital is strategically designed to elevate health outcomes, reduce patient transfer times, and strengthen the healthcare safety net for Eleuthera’s families and workforce. This facility embodies BWHS’s vision of community-rooted clinical excellence and operational readiness, providing residents with dependable around-the-clock care supported by a dedicated, skilled clinical team.

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Baptist Health Foundation Receives $1 Million Grant from Ocean Reef Community Foundation to Benefit Baptist Health Homestead Hospital

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

CORAL GABLES, FL – March 16, 2026 – Baptist Health Foundation announced today that it has received a $1 million grant fromOcean Reef Community Foundation benefiting the Baptist Health Homestead Hospital Clinical Expansion Fund. The grant will support the building of a four-story, 134,000 sq-ft tower at Baptist Health Homestead Hospital in Homestead, Florida, to increase inpatient capacity, expand surgical and diagnostic resources and enhance the patient experience. The Ocean Reef Community Foundation will be recognized at the hospital with a naming ceremony at a later date.

“We are grateful for the generosity of the Ocean Reef Community Foundation, and for their partnership in this important initiative,” said Alex Villoch, CEO of Baptist Health Foundation. “They understand Baptist Health Homestead Hospital’s vital need for increased capacity. This grant supporting the hospital’s expansion will help us provide extraordinary patient care and treatment in South Dade and the Upper Keys for generations to come.”

Homestead and South Miami-Dade County are experiencing unprecedented growth. The area is expected to welcome around 50,000 new residents in the coming years, placing a strain on the region's healthcare infrastructure, including Homestead Hospital. The hospital is a crucial healthcare lifeline for Homestead and the Keys, which are isolated from major medical centers and advanced services. Homestead Hospital currently sees nearly 10,000 admissions and performs over 3,000 surgeries annually, operating at consistently high levels of patient utilization.

“Homestead Hospital’s much-needed expansion will not only help increase healthcare access for patients in the area, but it will also enhance comfort, convenience and quality of care,” remarked Richard Weinstein, president and chief operating officer of Ocean Reef Community Foundation. “We want to support Baptist Health in their commitment to advance healthcare for local residents.”

Added Ken Spell, CEO of Homestead Hospital, “This grant will make a significant impact for our hospital and the community. It also lays the groundwork for our vision to elevate care by developing a state-of-the-art outpatient center, recruiting top physicians and surgeons, and broadening the reach of Baptist Health’s renowned institutes. We thank the Foundation for its generous support and trust in us.”

About Baptist Health Foundation

About Baptist Health

Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 29,000 employees, 4,500 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and The Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News and World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

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Baptist Health Foundation Receives $5 Million Grant from Elaine and Eduardo Saverin Foundation to Benefit Baptist Health Miami Neuroscience Institute

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

CORAL GABLES, FL – March 11, 2026 – Baptist Health Foundation announced today that it has received a $5 million grant from the Elaine and Eduardo Saverin Foundation benefiting Baptist Health Miami Neuroscience Institute. The Elaine and Eduardo Saverin Parkinson's Disease Fund will support the Institute’s Parkinson’s disease clinical care program, which will focus on medical care, research, community outreach and technological innovation for patients with Parkinson’s disease. The Foundation will be recognized with the naming of the Elaine and Eduardo Saverin Foundation Auditorium at the planned Kenneth C. Griffin Center at Miami Neuroscience Institute, to be unveiled upon the opening of the Center.

“We’re extremely grateful to Elaine and Eduardo Saverin for this generous grant,” said Alex Villoch, CEO of Baptist Health Foundation. “Their commitment to supporting medical innovation and research perfectly aligns with Miami Neuroscience Institute’s bold vision to drive discoveries and provide extraordinary, compassionate care. Their generosity will help advance the Institute’s Parkinson’s disease research program and support patients affected by this debilitating disease.”

Founded in 2023, the Elaine and Eduardo Saverin Foundation is dedicated to creating lasting impact in healthcare, mental health, education, and wildlife conservation and regenerative futures. The grant benefiting Miami Neuroscience Institute is intended to address urgent needs of Parkinson’s disease patients and increase awareness of the disease while advancing breakthroughs to transform treatment for future generations.

“Eduardo and I chose to support Baptist Health Miami Neuroscience Institute because we recognize an institution truly centered on delivering world-class, holistic care to patients and their families,” said Elaine Saverin, chair of the Foundation. “It brings together compassionate care, rigorous research and thoughtful technological innovation in service of individuals who deserve nothing less. We feel deeply privileged to play a small part in building something that can extend beyond any single patient’s journey, touching lives across communities and giving future generations a genuine reason for hope.”

Michael McDermott, M.D., chief medical executive and Irma & Kalman Bass Endowed Chair in Clinical Neuroscience at Miami Neuroscience Institute, as well as chair of the Department of Neurosciences at Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, remarked, “This grant serves to build on the progress the Institute has made in the field of Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. It comes at a pivotal time as we look ahead to the upcoming Kenneth C. Griffin Center, which will allow us to expand our multidisciplinary, patient-centered care and leverage state-of-the-art technology. We are honored by the Saverin Foundation’s trust in us to provide world-class expertise for Parkinson’s patients in our community and beyond.”

Miami Neuroscience Institute provides the most comprehensive and innovative techniques to diagnose and treat the brain, spine and nervous system.” Under the direction of Chief Medical Executive Michael McDermott, M.D., an internationally renowned neurosurgeon, the Institute embraces a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, from nonsurgical treatments and minimally invasive procedures to complex brain and spine surgery. As a national leader in the treatment of movement disorders, Miami Neuroscience Institute ensures that patients receive the most-innovative treatment options to provide the best quality of life possible.

Miami Neuroscience Institute is currently developing the Kenneth C. Griffin Center, a new, state-of-the-art facility that will house the Institute’s growing physician team and offer comprehensive brain and spine care for patients on the campus of Baptist Health Baptist Hospital in Miami. Along with cutting-edge laboratories equipped with the latest technologies, the new building will provide space for Baptist Health to conduct studies in the same facility where patients are treated, strengthening collaboration between researchers and clinicians and advancing the Institute’s research in neuroscience and neurodegenerative disorders.

About Baptist Health Foundation

About Baptist Health

Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 29,000 employees, 4,500 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and The Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News and World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

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