Sarasota Memorial Health Care System

Business Details

50+ Years

experience

Emergency

services

Your Trusted Healthcare Partner in Sarasota

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System has been dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare to the Sarasota community since 1925. As one of Florida's largest public health systems, we operate two hospitals offering specialized expertise in heart, vascular, cancer, orthopedic, and neuroscience services, alongside a comprehensive network of outpatient centers, urgent care facilities, and physician practices. Our mission emphasizes innovation, safety, and patient-centered care, supported by over 10,000 staff members and recognized nationally for excellence. We serve as the region's healthcare safety net, providing critical services such as trauma care, obstetrics, neonatal intensive care, and psychiatric programs.

Our commitment to community health is reflected in initiatives like the Kolschowsky Research and Education Institute, which advances medical knowledge and clinical training. With a governance structure led by a publicly elected board, we prioritize transparency, ethical behavior, and accountability in all operations. Our vision is to be the nation's best healthcare system, combining cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to improve patient outcomes and community well-being.

Services

Cancer Institute Cardiac Services Emergency Care Orthopedic Care Neurological Care Maternity Services Rehabilitation Services Radiology Imaging Urgent Care Centers Home Care Programs

Details

Year established: 1925

Highlights and features

Over 95 years of dedicated service to Sarasota County and surrounding areas.
Comprehensive care including trauma, cancer, heart, and neurological services.
Recognized as one of the nation's best hospitals for patient outcomes.
Home to the Kolschowsky Research and Education Institute for medical innovation.
Publicly governed system ensuring transparency and community accountability.

Associations and certifications

Magnet Nursing

What people say

Exceptional staff Advanced medical technology Comprehensive care options Community-focused approach Excellent emergency services

Website

Update Listing

Services

Cancer Institute

Our Cancer Institute offers comprehensive treatment for all cancer types, including breast, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers. Patients receive personalized care from multidisciplinary teams using advanced technologies like radiation oncology and genetic testing. The institute also provides clinical trials, survivorship programs, and support services, ensuring holistic care for patients and families.

Cardiac Services

Specialized cardiac care includes surgery, interventional procedures, and rehabilitation for heart conditions. Our team treats complex cases like heart failure and arrhythmias, utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostics and minimally invasive techniques. Patients benefit from secondary stroke prevention programs and comprehensive post-treatment support to improve long-term outcomes.

Emergency Care

With multiple emergency rooms across the region, we provide 24/7 critical care for trauma, strokes, and acute conditions. Our facilities feature advanced imaging and rapid response teams, ensuring timely treatment. The system serves as Sarasota County's only trauma center, equipped to handle life-threatening injuries and pediatric emergencies.

Rehabilitation Services

Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs address mobility, neurological recovery, and post-surgical needs. Services include cardiopulmonary rehab, occupational therapy, and specialized programs for stroke and spinal cord injuries. Our goal is to restore function and independence through personalized treatment plans and advanced therapeutic technologies.

Maternity Services

Comprehensive maternity care includes prenatal education, labor and delivery, and neonatal intensive care. The NICU provides specialized treatment for premature infants, while childbirth classes prepare families for delivery. Our services extend to high-risk pregnancies and postpartum support, ensuring safe and positive birthing experiences.

People

Sarah Lodge

Chair, Public Hospital Board

Certified financial planner with extensive strategic planning experience. Holds a health science degree from the University of Florida and leads the Rotary Club of Sarasota Foundation. Committed to advancing hospital services through community engagement.

Pam Beitlich

Assistant Treasurer, Public Hospital Board

Retired executive director of Women and Children's Services at SMH with 40+ years in nursing leadership. Holds a doctorate in nursing practice and serves as Florida Organization for Nursing Leadership president. Advocates for maternal and pediatric care excellence.

Sharon Wetzler DePeters

First Vice Chair, Public Hospital Board

Advanced practice nurse and former associate professor with expertise in cardiovascular research. Served 12 years in the U.S. Air Force Reserve and 21 years in clinical nursing roles. Focuses on improving healthcare access and quality through policy leadership.

Brad Baker

Public Hospital Board Member

Business strategist with experience in technology and healthcare governance. Former White House Fellow and Florida Housing Finance Corporation executive director. Serves on aviation and education boards, prioritizing infrastructure and community health partnerships.

Kevin Cooper

Treasurer, Public Hospital Board

Communications leader at Mote Marine Laboratory with military service in Iraq. Holds MBA degrees and focuses on strategic initiatives. Advocates for healthcare transparency and community engagement through public relations and civic involvement.

Questions

What specialized services does Sarasota Memorial offer?

We provide cancer care, cardiac surgery, trauma services, neurological treatment, maternity care, and rehabilitation programs, supported by advanced technology and research initiatives.

How can I schedule an appointment?

Request appointments online via our patient portal, contact specific departments directly, or use physician referral services for specialized care coordination.

Does Sarasota Memorial accept my insurance?

We accept most major insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers. Verify coverage details through our patient financial services department.

What emergency care options are available?

Our 24/7 emergency rooms in Sarasota, Venice, and North Port handle trauma, strokes, heart attacks, and pediatric emergencies with rapid diagnostic and treatment capabilities.

How does the hospital support community health?

We offer free screenings, health education programs, volunteer opportunities, and partnerships with local organizations to address public health needs and improve access to care.

What research initiatives are active?

The Kolschowsky Research Institute conducts clinical trials, nursing education programs, and studies on chronic disease management and innovative treatment protocols.

Reviews (4)

Write a Review

Laura H.

Jun 30, 2022 Report

We are currently vacationing but needed medical support and went to the ER there. They were extremely busy tonight but you would never know it by the great attitudes and care we received. Everyone including people supporting valet parking, receptionists, registration, triage and medical staff have been amazing( RN AMBER, EMT Kyle, Dr Wheeler and Dr Krahmer)! Very thankful for all their kindness and care. Waiting on an MRI and may possibly be admitted but I can't speak enough praises for the care we received thus far!

Michael Coburn

Jun 08, 2022 Report

I went to Sarasota Memorial via the emergency. The ER doctors were very good, the people who ran test on me were also excellent. My dissatisfaction was with what took place after I was admitted. I was unhappy with the care I received in the Heart Ward. The doctors did not follow through on the results of my test. When a referral was needed within their own dept. they did not do it. I had to request it.

The doctors relied far too much on the nurses opinion. I was paying to see a doctor not a nurse. A supposedly well qualified nurse drew blood in my right wrist and I still have nerve pain 4 months later. Overall not a pleasant experience. I would not go to this facility again.

Tom W.

Jun 06, 2022 Report

I feel the need to follow up my review from yesterday, and I wanted to give 5 stars to EVERYONE else we have come in contact with since the unfortunate interaction with one lone registration person yesterday. I can't talk enough about what a great experience it has been since that moment with the 1 rouge person. And it's not fair to hurt the entire hospital with a 1 star review. Everyone else here deserves better. Keep up the good work! If I could give 6 stars I would.

Angela P.

Jun 01, 2022 Report

The only hospital in the area that I will ever use! My 85 year old mom has been in there 3 times just this year for various issues. She has ALWAYS received excellent care The nurses there are superb! doctors there take time and answer your question.