Melissa Donovan
Orlando Health announced in a recent press release they have partnered with Watson Clinic, a nationally respected physician-led practice, to enhance healthcare access and services in the region. This strategic collaboration will come to fruition in June 2026 with the grand opening of the Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital.
A Transformational Partnership
“By combining our respective strengths, we are able to provide a level of care and service that expands both our capabilities while enhancing patient care,” Carlos Carrasco, senior vice president, Orlando Health Midwest Region said. “Watson Clinic is one of the region’s largest and most established healthcare providers, with over 84 years of deeply rooted history in the community. We’re excited about our alignment with Watson Clinic and the impact it will have on patient care across Florida’s heartland.”
This partnership brings together two powerhouse organizations with a shared commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care. Watson Clinic’s long-standing reputation and Orlando Health’s extensive resources will provide the Lakeland community with expanded medical expertise and state-of-the-art healthcare services.
Cutting-Edge Medical Facility
The Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital has been meticulously designed to integrate the latest medical advancements while ensuring a patient-friendly experience. Experts from both organizations have worked together to craft a facility that prioritizes innovative healthcare solutions and meets the diverse needs of the community.
Upon opening, the hospital will feature:
- Over 300 inpatient beds
- 69 emergency and observation beds
- 11 fully operational surgical suites
- Four specialized cardiac and interventional suites
- An 18-bed intensive care unit (ICU), capable of expanding to serve 36 patients
Recognizing the critical need for maternal and neonatal care, the hospital will also introduce comprehensive obstetric services, including:
- Eight labor and delivery rooms
- Two specialized C-section operating rooms
- More than 25 post-partum recovery rooms
- A 12-bed neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), set to launch shortly after the hospital’s opening
Commitment to the Community
“Watson Clinic is honored to work alongside one of nation’s most respected healthcare organizations on this magnificent project,” Jason Hirsbrunner, Watson Clinic Chief Executive Officer said. “This collaboration will provide our devoted patient base with expanded access to the doctors and care they trust most, and it will ensure exceptional healthcare services in our community for generations to come.”
Orlando Health’s investment in this new facility marks one of its most significant capital commitments to date. “This is one of the largest hospital capital investments Orlando Health has made,” added Carrasco. “It’s a big commitment to the community. But it’s a big commitment because the community deserves it.”
With this initiative, Orlando Health and Watson Clinic reaffirm their dedication to enhancing healthcare in Central Florida, ensuring residents have access to world-class medical services close to home.
For more information on the Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital, visit orlandohealth.com/Watson-Clinic.
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