Newsroom

Lower Keys Medical Center is continuing its investment in local access to medical care with the addition of an advanced radiography and fluoroscopy system and an upgraded x-ray room to accommodate the new technology. In addition to delivering sharper imaging for increased accuracy in diagnoses, the new x-ray equipment offers fluoroscopy capabilities, enabling patients to schedule procedures and diagnostics such as joint injections and barium swallow testing. “We are committed to continually upgrading an... ... Read More

Lower Keys Medical Center has noted a significant milestone, celebrating four years without a serious safety event. The accomplishment highlights the work to deliver safe, quality patient care. Staff will be recognized during the September employee breakfasts. Lower Keys Medical Center chief executive officer Drew Bigby said, “This milestone is a testament to our teams, which utilize evidence-based best practices and maintain constant focus on providing compassionate, safe, quality care for our neighbor... ... Read More

Health experts encourage lifestyle changes to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and dementia Unlike acute inflammation, which actually helps the body recover from injury or infection, chronic inflammation occurs when the immune system remains activated for months or even years. That ongoing response gradually damages healthy tissues and organs, contributing to conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, arthritis, and neurodegenerative dis... ... Read More

Keys Medical Group Primary Care at Searstown welcomes Amy Smart, PA-C, primary care physician assistant, effective September 17, 2026. Smart is a graduate of University of Florida where she earned a master’s degree in physician assistant studies. She joins Courtney Bonner, D.O., board-certified internal medicine physician. Smart focuses on preventive medicine and sustainable lifestyle choices to help patients improve their overall health and longevity. Her goal is that patients feel heard, respected and... ... Read More

While falls are a significant health concern that can affect anyone, regardless of age, they are most often perceived as an inevitable part of the aging process. Despite one out of every four people aged 65 and older experiencing at least one fall each year, healthcare providers say these incidents are frequently preventable. “Falls can have serious life-changing consequences, including hip fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and a long-term loss of independence,” says Amanda Meyer, PA-C, ATC, orthoped... ... Read More

Keys Medical Group Psychiatry welcomes Amanda DeBoer, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, effective September 1, 2026. DeBoer is a graduate of Milwaukee School of Engineering where she earned her Masters of Science in nursing specializing in psychiatric mental health. She will provide diagnostic evaluation, individualized treatment plans, individual and family psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, family support services, crisis intervention and referrals to community resources.... ... Read More

Breaking the Cycle of Sedentary Living While many of us spend our days glued to desks, behind the wheel or in front of screens, a hidden health concern may be building: chronic conditions linked to too much sitting. Research shows that excessive sitting, defined as hours spent with limited physical movement, is linked to serious health conditions, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar and unhealthy cholesterol levels. Studies have even suggested that long perio... ... Read More

Ten registered nurses on the Lower Keys Medical Center staff recently completed the hospital's New Graduate RN program. For all newly graduated nurses who join the hospital, the mentorship and training curriculum supports their transition from student to practicing registered nurse, helping them develop decision-making skills, enhancing clinical nursing leadership practices, and promoting the incorporation of research-based practice. New nursing school graduates work in various units in the hospital and... ... Read More

Keys Medical Group Orthopedics welcomes Joshua Fiore, DScPAS, M.S., PA-C, orthopedic physician assistant, effective August 3, 2026. A graduate of Northeastern University Physician Assistant Program, Fiore also earned a Doctor of Science in physician assistant studies at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, in Boston, MA. Fiore provides diagnosis and management of orthopedic conditions, fracture and acute injury care, casting, splinting, joint injections, aspirations, sports medicine an... ... Read More

Jody Houser, a registered nurse at Lower Keys Medical Center, has received a national Nursing Excellence Award. Houser was surprised with the recognition during a reception with hospital leadership and Key West Mayor Danise "DeeDee" Henriquez, where she was presented with a crystal plaque and a symbolic check for the cash award she received. Houser joined Lower Keys Medical Center in 2021 and in that time has served in the medical surgical unit, nursing leadership, and the intensive care unit. In March ... ... Read More