Since its founding in 1928, Halifax Health has offered accessible, high-quality healthcare, continually expanding its services to meet the evolving needs of the community.

With the region’s only Level II Trauma Center and a Thrombectomy Capable Stroke Center, the health system has long provided top-tier, lifesaving services.

Now, with the June opening of the Neurosciences Center of Excellence, Halifax Health is again redefining what’s possible in regional medicine.

The new center, a collaboration between Halifax Health and the University of Florida (UF) Health, will provide a full spectrum of advanced neurological care, from neurosurgery to stroke intervention, spine care and pain management, all under one roof.

Located on the second floor of the Lohman Building on Halifax Health’s main campus in Daytona Beach, the center has been purposefully designed to deliver an integrated, patient-centric experience.

Jeff Feasel

“This center represents a major leap forward in how we serve our community,” said Jeff Feasel, Halifax Health President and CEO. “It’s the culmination of years of planning, collaboration and a shared commitment with UF Health to offer the highest level of neurological care close to home.”

The UF Neurosciences Center at Halifax Health is the latest milestone in a strong partnership that began in 2017 when Halifax Health joined forces with UF Health Neurosurgery.

Since then, the partnership has introduced world-class academic expertise and research-driven care to the area, creating unprecedented access to some of the most advanced treatment options available.

At the heart of the new center is a multi-disciplinary team of six neurosurgeons, four neurologists (including two vascular neurologists) and two pain management specialists.

With support from UF Health’s neurosurgery resident rotations and ongoing research, the center will not only offer patient care—it will help shape the future of neurological treatment.

Dr. Patrick Han

“Our model is built around collaboration and innovation,” explained Patrick Han, M.D., Medical Director of Neurosurgery for the University of Florida Health at Halifax Health. “By combining clinical care, research, and education we’re not just treating conditions—we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in neuroscience.”

With advanced neurosurgical suites, state-of-the-art imaging technology, and comprehensive rehabilitation services, the center is designed to support streamlined and effective patient care.

Each element of the facility was created to maximize patient comfort and minimize recovery times.

The timing of this expansion could not be more critical. According to the Florida Department of Health, Volusia County’s stroke hospitalization rate is 268.1 per 100,000 residents—among the highest in the state.

At the same time, the U.S. is facing a projected 19% shortfall of neurologists by 2025, which could lead to dangerous delays in care for time-sensitive conditions like stroke.

With the country’s aging population—more than 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 every day—demand for specialized neurological care is increasing rapidly.

The center’s vascular neurologists will be instrumental in addressing these challenges.

Matthew Petkus

They are critical in triaging stroke cases, determining appropriate use of thrombolytics like tPA or Tenecteplase, and partnering with interventional neuroradiologists and neurosurgeons to perform lifesaving thrombectomies.

Their involvement in clinical trials also ensures that Halifax Health remains at the forefront of emerging neuroprotective strategies and surgical innovations.

“Our patients deserve access to the very best care—without the need to travel long distances,” said Matthew Petkus, Halifax Health Vice President of Physician Services “The Neurosciences Center makes that possible.”

To fully realize this vision, Halifax Health is seeking $10.6 million in philanthropic support for clinical enhancements, including the development of two new interventional pain medicine surgical suites.

These funds will also help ensure continued recruitment of elite physicians, support ongoing investments in advanced technology and enhance community outreach programs.

John Guthrie

“Philanthropic support is not just a donation—it’s an investment in the future of healthcare for our region,” said John Guthrie, Vice President, Executive Director, Halifax Health Foundation. “It’s how we ensure that everyone, from every walk of life, has access to the care they need and deserve.”

The center will dramatically expand the reach and capabilities of Halifax Health, bringing care that was once only available in tertiary centers to the local community.

“This is more than just a new facility. It’s a promise to our community that we are here for them, now and into the future,” Feasel said. “Together, we’re shaping a healthier tomorrow.”

For more, visit halifaxhealth.org.

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A Bold New Chapter for Care in the Region