AdventHealth plans expansion into St. Johns County

One of the largest faith-based hospital systems in the U.S. is expanding into St. Johns County.

AdventHealth, with hospitals across Central Florida and the rest of the U.S., has announced plans to build a freestanding emergency room southwest of St. Augustine.

In a statement released on the company’s website , the CEO of AdventHealth’s East Florida division says St. Johns is part of its growth plan.

“As an organization, AdventHealth has robust expansion plans, and this latest step forward is an important part of our organization’s long-term vision for growth and our mission to extend the healing ministry of Christ,” CEO Audrey Gregory says.

The new ER joins a handful of other emergency departments across St. Johns County from UFHealth, Baptist Health , Ascension St. Vincent’s and HCA.

Health care needs

It might seem like a crowded market, but Scott Maynard, senior vice president of economic development for the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce, says the area’s growth can support another ER.

“While the market is competitive, our growing population and projected future growth will support these additions,” Maynard says. “Health management facilities are more focused in the services and treatments they offer, such as standalone emergency rooms and imaging facilities. We are extremely fortunate to have health care options in St. Johns County.”

And in a county where many people can’t afford to live where they work, he says the hospital system’s expansion will bring more paying jobs.

“All the health care facilities in St. Johns County provide a competitive wage,” Maynard says. “One of the attractions to health care jobs is the opportunity for workers to advance their careers with additional education and experience.”

The ER is planned for construction on about 11 acres of land on State Road 207 near the Interstate 95 interchange. According to The Jax Daily Record , the hospital system purchased the land in August for $5.7 million.

Construction is planned to begin next year and finish in early 2026.

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