Bay Pines VA planning new Sarasota Clinic

Bay Pines VA recently received $36M in construction and $4.8M in annual rent under the PACT Act legislation. This funding is paving the way for construction of a new facility in Sarasota that will replace the current clinic.

Plans for the new facility are in the initial phases and include a modern, multi-specialty clinic that provides imaging modalities, as well as optometry, audiology and various medicine specialties. This expansion also includes accommodations for 221 additional full-time employees

In the photo above, Bay Pines VA Assistant Director Justina Wells greets VA Secretary Denis McDonough during his visit to Bay Pines VA’s Sarasota VA Clinic April 13, 2023. Wells briefed McDonough on the levels of service provided to Veterans at the clinic. The Sarasota VA Clinic has seen an 11.8% increase in unique patients since FY20.

Throughout 2023, Veterans have scored the Sarasota VA Clinic above the national average for overall facility trust scores.

“The delivery of world class health care.”

McDonough met with employees and Veterans at Bay Pines VA as part of his visit to central and southwest Florida.

“Secretary McDonough’s visit was a welcomed opportunity to highlight the teamwork and commitment of our employees toward our goal of being a High Reliability Organization,” said Paul M. Russo, Bay Pines VA director/CEO. “The Sarasota VA Clinic continues to operate at a level that places them at the tip of the spear for the delivery of world-class health care, and we were honored to acknowledge them and share their successes with the Secretary.”

Employees recognized by VA Secretary

During McDonough’s visit, he recognized several employees for their leadership:

Dr. Shama James. As the section chief for primary care, James has overseen the success of all primary care services at all eight VA Clinics within Bay Pines VA.

Dawn Palmateer. As a registered nurse with the Patient Aligned Care Team, Palmateer is an exceptional patient advocate who exemplifies the ICARE values. She was recently recognized for her support of a Veteran in crisis who was driving his vehicle. Her efforts ensured the Veteran was able to receive same-day admittance for mental health care and receive the immediate support he needed.

Marielyn Victoriano. As a health administration service supervisor, Victoriano’s leadership has consistently resulted in effective and sustainable problem-solving solutions critical to overall operations and care for Veterans who are served at the Sarasota VA Clinic.

Odrys Toro-Esteban. As an advanced medical support assistant, Toro-Esteban is a pillar of the VA ICARE Principles of Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Her grace and humility have consistently endeared her to employees and Veterans.  

Clark Lo. The administrative officer to assistant director Justina Wells was instrumental in the preparations, coordination and execution of the Lee County Healthcare Center’s efforts during Hurricane Ian.

“We brag a lot about Bay Pines.”

“We brag a lot about Bay Pines because you do a lot of great work,” McDonough said. “This area is growing so fast, and I am excited about the things you’re doing here and what that means for Veterans.”