News & Media
Retired Physician Honored for Service
Dr. Arland Adams Practiced Internal Medicine for Five Decades in Brevard
A longstanding, well-respected physician who served on staff at Health First's Holmes Regional Medical Center for decades was honored for not only his care for the Brevard community but his service to our country.
Dr. Arland Adams, 91, practiced internal medicine for more than five decades after serving as a Naval Aviator in the U.S. Navy. As a gesture to thank him for all he has done, an America flag was flown in his honor by the Rescue Squad at Patrick Air Force Base. The flag was then presented to Dr. Adams, along with a commemorative plaque, during a Holmes Regional Medical General Staff meeting held on December 11.
Dr. Adams, who last served on staff at Health First in 2006, began serving the community healthcare system in January 1964. He was appointed to Emeritus Medical Staff at Holmes Regional in April 2003. That designation is a singular honor reserved for Medical Staff members who are 65 and older or who have retired from active clinical practice at the Hospital and who have been judged by their colleagues to have rendered distinguished service to the community and the Hospital.
In addition, Dr. Adams worked as a physician for Osler Medical.
A native of Pennsylvania, Dr. Adams attended the University of Richmond and University of Virginia before his service in the Navy. He finished his undergraduate studies at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pennsylvania, before earning his degree at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia.
Dr. Adams completed his internal medicine internship and residency at the U.S. Naval Hospital in Philadelphia. He served as the hospital's director of medical clinics for three years before relocating to Melbourne, where he opened his practice in 1963.
His wife of 60 years, Helenmary, passed away two years ago. They have one son, who lives in Orlando.
Dr. Adams continues to be a presence at Holmes Regional, coming in every day to work on an autobiography he is writing. He also is an avid golfer and continues to play regularly. Members of the Holmes Regional Medical Staff were pleased to honor him.