Investing in Future Generations: Tampa Bay’s Pediatric Landscape Evolves

TAMPA, FL – November 20, 2025

A significant investment in pediatric healthcare is underway in Tampa Bay, with Excelis Medical Associates (EMA) donating $1 million to the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation. The donation will support the construction of the new Pagidipati Children’s Hospital at St. Joseph’s, a dedicated facility poised to reshape the region’s pediatric care landscape. This commitment comes as Tampa Bay experiences population growth, increasing the demand for specialized pediatric services and highlighting the importance of accessible, high-quality care for its youngest residents.

Expanding Capacity to Meet Growing Needs

The new, freestanding hospital represents a pivotal moment for pediatric healthcare in West Central Florida. Currently operating within the larger St. Joseph’s Hospital campus, the existing children’s hospital, handling nearly 35,000 emergency room visits and 13,000 births annually, has reached capacity. The new facility, slated for completion by 2030, will dramatically expand the hospital’s ability to serve a growing population and deliver advanced, specialized care.

“The need for a dedicated children’s hospital has become increasingly clear,” stated a hospital administrator. “We’re committed to providing the highest level of care for every child in our community, and this new facility will allow us to do that more effectively.”

The $338 million project is part of a broader $1.9 billion capital investment program by BayCare Health System. The Pagidipati Children’s Hospital will not only increase capacity but also focus on evolving specialty care, advancing research initiatives, and expanding pediatric graduate medical education programs. This long-term vision aims to establish Tampa Bay as a regional hub for pediatric excellence.

A Legacy of Partnership: EMA’s Commitment to Community Health

Excelis Medical Associates’ $1 million donation underscores a longstanding partnership with St. Joseph’s Hospitals, spanning over five decades. EMA provides essential emergency medical services across multiple BayCare facilities, solidifying their commitment to the health and well-being of the Tampa Bay community.

“This donation reflects our dedication to the patients we serve and our belief in the importance of investing in the future of healthcare,” explained Dr. Dion Samerson, CEO of Excelis Medical Associates. “We are proud to support St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital and their commitment to providing exceptional care for children.”

The donation is not merely a financial contribution; it's a testament to the value EMA places on collaboration and community impact. Experts believe such partnerships between private medical practices and healthcare systems are vital for driving innovation and improving patient outcomes.

Navigating a Competitive Landscape with Specialized Care

The Tampa Bay area is home to several prominent pediatric healthcare providers, including Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital and Tampa General Hospital’s Muma Children's Hospital. The new Pagidipati Children’s Hospital will differentiate itself by focusing on evolving specialty care, advancing research, and serving as a destination for high-acuity pediatric services.

“We are not looking to duplicate what other hospitals are doing,” explained a BayCare spokesperson. “Our goal is to complement the existing services and fill gaps in the market. We will focus on areas where we can deliver unique value and make a real difference in the lives of our patients.”

The hospital’s expansion of pediatric graduate medical education programs is also expected to attract top medical talent to the region, further solidifying Tampa Bay’s position as a leader in pediatric healthcare. Experts note that a robust pipeline of qualified pediatricians is essential for meeting the growing demand for specialized care. BayCare is planning to expand its multi-specialty, non-hospital pediatric clinics to improve access to care closer to patients’ homes.

The new facility will also benefit the community by reducing the need for local patients to travel outside the area for specialized care. This will not only save families time and money but also ensure that children receive timely and appropriate medical attention. The hospital also intends to empower future generations and ensure that no child must travel out of the area to receive the care they need.