UF Health

The two health systems expect to formally close the deal this summer and begin merging services later this year.

UF Health Jacksonville, the region's only Level 1 trauma center, also got $80 million from the state.

The health systems have entered into a nonbinding letter of intent that would expand the services of Flagler Health+.

The Florida Blue Foundation is granting $3.7 million to UF Health's Urban Health Alliance to establish the statewide Center for Health Equity and Social Justice.

The money will pay for a new trauma center in the next four years. Hospital administrators say the current center is outdated, overcrowded and in dire need of renovations.

The six-story tower will include 124 rooms at the UF North campus. It is expected to open in early 2024.

UF Health Jacksonville is part of a nationwide COVID-19 clinical trial studying whether three drugs approved to treat other conditions — including the controversial ivermectin — may help prevent hospitalizations and deaths.

Fabian Granado was not vaccinated when the disease struck him. He now encourages other reluctant people to "do the right thing."

The medical system says many patents don't need expensive ER visits. The hybrid health facility also is designed to cut patient medical costs.

A UK couple came to Jacksonville in April as David Leek and Bobbie Godden, and will be leaving Mr. and Mrs. David Michael Leek Sr.The two married…