Lee Health Marks One Year as a Community-Focused Nonprofit Health System.
This month, Lee Health proudly marks the first anniversary of its historic conversion from a public entity to a private, community-focused nonprofit health system. The milestone represents a successful transition built on the promise to preserve local healthcare, strengthen access, and continue serving all residents of Southwest Florida.
“One year ago, our community leaders understood the importance of ensuring Lee Health could remain strong, sustainable, and locally governed for generations to come,” said Larry Antonucci, M.D., president and chief executive officer of Lee Health. “Their vision and support made this transition possible, and today we’re seeing the results in expanded services, innovation, and continued commitment to every person who visits our facilities or experiences our life-changing programs.”
Since the conversion, Lee Health has honored its pledge to preserve safety-net care, maintain critical community programs, and expand access to high-quality services. In 2025, Lee Health provided approximately $168 million in charity care, continuing its legacy of serving patients most in need. The system also launched new and expanded initiatives to improve health outcomes across the region, including:
Approval of a $150 million expansion at the under-construction Lee Health Fort Myers medical campus, adding 92 beds and future capacity.
Opening a 60-bed rehabilitation hospital with Encompass Health.
Expanding Hospital at Home to multiple campuses.
Introducing histotripsy for liver cancer, a first in Southwest Florida.
Growing cancer and musculoskeletal services, opening a Cancer Support Community, and launching the Advanced Lung Care Center.
Opening the Golisano Pediatric Clinic at Franklin Park Elementary School.
Advancing physician training through new OB/GYN and Transitional Year residencies at Cape Coral Hospital.
Partnering with Lee County to expand the Community Paramedicine Program.
Breaking ground on a new three-story laboratory and data center with next-generation molecular testing.
“From the start, our goal was to ensure Lee Health could remain independent, accountable to our community, and focused on improving health and wellbeing,” said Lee Health Board of Directors Chairperson David Klein. “We are deeply grateful to the leaders who shared this vision and trusted us to see it through.”
