As we step into 2026, I want to begin by expressing my gratitude for each of you — for your commitment, your compassion, and your constant drive to do what’s right for our patients and our community. A new year always brings a sense of renewal. It’s a chance to reflect on the journey behind us, and more importantly, to look ahead with purpose.
And this year, we’re beginning with a spotlight on innovation that is quietly but powerfully transforming lives.
With the help of high-powered scanners, we can now convert traditional glass slides into high-resolution digital images. These images can be reviewed and interpreted by expert pathologists, whether they’re here on the Space Coast or connected remotely.
With the help of high-powered scanners, we can now convert traditional glass slides into high-resolution digital images. These images can be reviewed and interpreted by expert pathologists, whether they’re here on the Space Coast or connected remotely.
What does that mean for our patients? It means faster answers. More precise diagnoses. And in some cases, life-saving decisions delivered in hours rather than days.
It’s hard to overstate the impact of this innovation. One of our own patients, facing a possible cancer diagnosis, had their biopsy reviewed and diagnosed within 24 hours. That kind of speed changes everything — for the patient, for their family, and for the care team planning the next steps. It shortens the wait. Reduces anxiety. And ensures that our patients can begin treatment sooner.
This is excellence in action. And it’s made possible by you: the pathologists, lab techs, clinical teams, IT specialists, and our valued partners at NexGen who have helped bring this capability to life. Your work reflects the very heart of our mission: to improve the health and wellness of the communities we serve.
This is what it looks like when we live our values. When we lead with accountability, ensuring every patient gets timely, accurate information. When we act with integrity, embracing the best solutions to improve care. When we work in partnership, knowing that collaboration is key to innovation.
Technology will continue to evolve. But the heart of what we do — caring for people — remains the same. Digital pathology is not just about faster slides or high-tech scanners. It’s about removing barriers to care. It’s about closing the gap between concern and clarity. It’s about showing our patients that we see them. That we are with them. And that we are committed to giving them the best we have.
Thank you for starting this new year with such momentum. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together in 2026.
Terry Forde
President & CEO, Health First
Health First in the news.
Stay informed about the latest at Health First, from new technology to groundbreaking procedures and more.