A Salute to Service and Healthcare
Down in Tampa, folks aren't just tipping their hats—they're giving a genuine salute to the veterans imbibing the community. This Veterans Day, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) welcomed none other than U.S. Army Reserve Major and Florida State Senator Danny Burgess for a heartfelt tribute. You had military men and women front and center—not just for their bravery, but their ongoing commitment to healthcare. Let me tell you, it's a day these veterans won't soon forget.
From Uniforms to Scrubs
Senator Burgess, who knows a thing or two about service being a Major in the U.S. Army Reserve himself, joined TGH for a special ceremony honoring the 200 team members who've worn the uniform. He didn’t mince words when acknowledging their dual roles—past protectors, present caregivers. In the man's own terms, "Thank you for serving our country in uniform. Thank you for serving our state in healthcare. We’re better for it." Now that's a sentiment that rings true long after the speeches are done.
The Power of Veteran Dedication
John Couris, the guy steering the ship over at Florida Health Sciences Center | Tampa General, echoed the Senator's thoughts. He put it plainly—veterans are the backbone of TGH's success. "Their courage and commitment to service inspire us," he said. Veterans bring the kind of grit and teamwork that health systems need more than ever. And, in terms of competition, that's giving TGH an edge near and far.
"Our veterans deserve more than our gratitude. They deserve our unwavering commitment to their health, well-being and quality of life," says Doug Leonardo from TGH.
Senator Burgess: Champion of Veteran Causes
Let’s dive a bit into the man of the hour, Senator Burgess. Serving since 2020, he's not just shaking hands but making moves—championing legislation around PTSD and mental health for those who've served. His track record includes time as the executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs. When it comes to veterans, he's all about translating thanks into tangible support, like programs for mental health and well-being.
Tampa General: Beyond a Hospital
For TGH, this celebration wasn’t just ceremonial. Think of it more like a cornerstone in their ethos. Veterans' contributions extend past the operating rooms and counseling offices. They bolster community initiatives, manage health crises, and bring their formidable skills to the forefront of patient care.
With a 1,530-bed campus and recognition as a premier academic health system, spanning Florida from Tampa to the Gulf, TGH is no lightweight institution. They've got an impressive reach—level I trauma, comprehensive burn care, and more helicopter rescues than you can count on one hand.
A Commitment to Excellence
- Ranked top of the pack by U.S. News & World Report for 11 straight years.
- Florida's leading transplant center.
- Multiple centers, including the Jennifer Leigh Muma NICU and advanced stroke care.
They’re not just giving lip service, either. Fiscal responsibility meets community care with around $289.1 million in support provided to underinsured patients in fiscal year 2024. Plus, their programs aren't just doctor-focused, they nurture career growth all around.
The Community Gets Stronger
You want meaningful change? It starts by recognizing those who've given more than most. TGH's Veterans Team Member Resource Group isn’t just a title; it's a powerhouse aiming for inclusion and support. On days like this, Tampa General doesn't just tout its capabilities—it demonstrates them.
For a city once known for cigars and sunsets, days honoring veterans at hospitals like TGH highlight another specialty entirely: commitment to care. The results? Just like their veterans, TGH is never backing down from a challenge.
