August 4, 2026 – HCA Florida Mercy Hospital is pleased to welcome James Boddu, MD, to its medical staff. Dr. Boddu is a neurosurgeon with HCA Florida Biscayne Bay Neurosurgery and Spine, specializing in complex minimally invasive spine and reconstructive spinal deformity care.

Dr. Boddu completed CAST-accredited fellowships in complex reconstructive spinal deformity surgery at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and minimally invasive and complex spine surgery at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital. He also completed his neurological surgery residency at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital and earned his Doctor of Medicine with Distinction from The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

His clinical focus includes disc herniations, radiculopathy, myelopathy, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, spinal deformity, craniocervical junction disorders, and primary, metastatic and spinal cord tumors.

Dr. Boddu sees patients at HCA Florida Biscayne Bay Neurosurgery and Spine, located at 3683 S. Miami Ave., Suite 500, Miami, FL 33133.

About HCA Florida Mercy Hospital

HCA Florida Mercy Hospital, a comprehensive medical facility serving the healthcare needs of South Florida for 75 years, is a part of HCA Florida Healthcare. The 488-bed, acute care hospital is an award-winning facility that specializes in emergency services that are kid and senior friendly, maternity with level III NICU, general and robotic surgery, hyperbaric and wound care center, cardiology, cancer care, orthopedic and spine, primary stroke center, weight loss programs and more. HCA Florida Mercy Hospital is Miami-Dade’s only catholic hospital and provides patients with the best quality care in a compassionate and caring environment. HCA Florida Mercy Hospital is located in the heart of Coconut Grove, FL with a bayfront property that makes it the only hospital in Miami to be accessible by land, air and sea.

 

About HCA Florida Healthcare

HCA Florida Healthcare, a part of HCA Healthcare, is one of Florida’s leading healthcare networks. Its 11,200 physicians and 80,000 colleagues work together to deliver evidence-based, collaborative care through nearly 12.8 million patient encounters annually. With more than 670 connected care sites—including hospitals, physician practices, urgent care centers and freestanding emergency rooms—across the state, HCA Florida Healthcare helps expand access to the specialized care patients need. HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals are annually recognized for excellence in patient experience and clinical outcomes, including three facilities ranked in the top 2% nationally for overall clinical excellence. A leader in healthcare education, HCA Florida Healthcare supports the next generation of healthcare workers through its 153 graduate medical education programs across 29 hospitals. In 2025, the network provided more than $1.1 billion in uncompensated care and contributed more than $3.5 million to community organizations across the state. Visit  HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.



Resource supports child-centered, evidence-based care while strengthening program integrity, protecting children from inappropriate treatment, and safeguarding Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) resources

AUGUST 4, 2026 – Children with autism deserve care that is individualized, effective, and free from fraud and financial exploitation. To help states meet that standard, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the State Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Toolkit, a comprehensive resource to help state Medicaid and CHIP agencies address growing concerns about increasing expenditures, inconsistent clinical practices, and fraud schemes targeting autism services.

“We are helping states shut down fraud schemes that exploit children with autism and misuse funds from American taxpayers,” HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., said. “This toolkit gives states practical tools that may be used to identify bad actors, protect families, and hold providers accountable. President Trump has made protecting both vulnerable children and taxpayer dollars a top priority, and we are delivering on that commitment.”

“Every dollar lost to fraud or waste is a dollar that cannot reach a child who genuinely needs it,” said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Families deserve confidence that ABA services are clinically appropriate, personalized, and delivered by qualified providers, and this toolkit is our commitment to help states make that a reality.”

CMS data shows that between 2021 and 2025, ABA spending in Medicaid and CHIP increased 421%, far outpacing the 67% growth in the number of children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis receiving services. That disparity is not just a fiscal concern. It raises important questions about whether Medicaid resources are consistently supporting medically appropriate care. It also signals that rapid program growth requires stronger oversight to ensure children receive services based on medical need rather than financial incentives. A troubling number of investigations, prosecutions, and convictions related to kickbacks and harm to children have raised serious fiscal and oversight concerns.

This toolkit is not a restriction on autism services. It does not establish new federal requirements; reduce Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) obligations; endorse any single treatment approach to ABA; or direct states to limit access to medically necessary care. Rather, it gives states practical tools to help ensure that every child receiving ABA services gets individualized, evidence-based care that is free from fraud and financial manipulation and is delivered by qualified providers.

The ABA toolkit provides states with useful information and suggested practices across key policy and operational areas, including:

  • Helping ensure children receive ABA services that are medically necessary, individualized, and appropriate for their clinical needs.
  • Helping states support treatment intensity that reflects each child’s clinical needs rather than standardized service models.
  • Protecting families by helping states ensure ABA providers are qualified and properly supervised.
  • Promoting responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars by discouraging unnecessary or inappropriate services.
  • Helping to ensure states’ ability to identify fraud, waste, and abuse, and other improper billing practices.
  • Helping states continue providing medically necessary autism services to eligible children through Medicaid.

The toolkit addresses a wide range of operational and policy considerations — from clinical standards and Medicaid benefit design to payment methodologies, provider enrollment, credentialing, utilization management, and program integrity strategies designed to identify fraud, waste, and abuse. A checklist is included to help states assess whether their ABA policies support effective implementation, strong oversight, and responsible stewardship of Medicaid funds. States are encouraged to use this toolkit to inform decision-making with the understanding that solutions will vary based on their unique program structures, populations, and priorities.

The toolkit is informed by Medicaid data, peer-reviewed literature, and broad stakeholder engagement. It draws on a targeted review of more than 40 literature sources; an assessment of more than 240 publicly available state-level Medicaid coverage and policy references; and qualitative input from a broad range of state agencies, providers, advocates, and other stakeholders.

CMS will continue working with states to strengthen oversight of ABA services, protect children and families, promote evidence-based care, and ensure Medicaid resources are directed toward medically necessary services that improve outcomes for children with autism.

The ABA toolkit is available at: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/downloads/autism-services-aba-toolkit.docx


Bascom Palmer Eye Institute earns its 25th No. 1 national ranking; Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center named Florida’s top-ranked cancer program; Neurology & Neurosurgery reaches the Top 15

MIAMI – August 4, 2026 — UHealth – University of Miami Health System achieved its strongest performance to date in the 2026-2027 U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings, highlighted by Bascom Palmer Eye Institute’s No. 1 national ranking in ophthalmology for the 25th year, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center becoming Florida’s highest-ranked cancer program, and five nationally ranked adult specialties.

“Our physicians, nurses and staff deserve every bit of this recognition, and we will celebrate it today knowing that our work is not done. What is being recognized is a standard of excellence we set long before anyone outside was measuring it, which is the quality of the care each patient receives, the research that drives innovations forward, and the education that powers the next generation of medicine. That is what we hold ourselves to, and it is what we will continue to build on.”  Dipen J. Parekh, M.D., Chief Executive Officer, UHealth – University of Miami Health System

“These results are really years in the making, with an intense focus on consistently delivering high-quality care. It demonstrates that we’re thriving and continuing to grow.” Tanira Ferreira, M.D., chief medical officer of University of Miami Hospital and Clinics and Miller School associate professor in the Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine.

“Academic health systems are uniquely positioned to transform discoveries into better care for patients, At UHealth, clinicians, scientists, educators and trainees work together across disciplines to solve complex medical challenges. The breadth of recognition reflected in these rankings demonstrates the power of that collaboration and our commitment to advancing health throughout South Florida and beyond.” Roy E. Weiss, M.D., Ph.D., chair of the Department of Medicine and chief medical officer of ambulatory services

“It’s about creating a system that consistently delivers excellent outcomes, minimizes complications, prioritizes patient safety and provides a positive experience for every patient. That is what we’ve done.” Kymberlee Manni, Ph.D., CEO of University of Miami Hospital and Clinics

This year’s rankings also mark several significant milestones for UHealth, including Neurology & Neurosurgery reaching the nation’s Top 15 for the first time and new statewide rankings in cancer, cardiology and orthopedics.

Highlights include:

  • Bascom Palmer Eye Institute ranked No. 1 in the nation for ophthalmology for the 25th year.
  • Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of UHealth and South Florida’s only NCI-designated cancer center, ranked No. 1 in Florida and No. 23 nationally for cancer care, making it the state’s highest-ranked cancer program.
  • Neurology & Neurosurgery climbed to No. 14 nationally, up from No. 23 last year. The program has now ranked among the nation’s Top 25 for six consecutive years and reached the Top 15 for the first time.
  • UHealth is one of only two South Florida health systems with five nationally ranked adult specialties.
  • UHealth ranked No. 2 in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metropolitan area, and No. 5 in Florida.

Nationally Ranked Adult Specialties

  • #1 Ophthalmology
  • #14 Neurology & Neurosurgery
  • #19 Geriatrics
  • #23 Cancer
  • #49 Cardiology & Heart Surgery

**New Florida Rankings

For the first time, U.S. News recognized statewide specialty rankings in several categories. UHealth earned:

  • #1 in Florida – Cancer
  • #3 in Florida – Cardiology & Heart Surgery
  • #3 in Florida – Orthopedics

In addition, five specialties earned High Performing recognition, placing them among the nation’s highest-performing hospitals:

  • Diabetes & Endocrinology
  • Gastroenterology & GI Surgery
  • Orthopedics
  • Pulmonology & Lung Surgery
  • Urology

UHealth also received High Performing recognition in 17 procedures and conditions, reflecting strong clinical outcomes across a broad range of patient care.



August 3, 2026 — Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida offers free monthly autism spectrum disorder screenings for toddlers 18 months to five years of age.

The next screenings will be held on Aug. 12 and Aug. 14 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Pediatric Specialist Office, 15901 Bass Road, Suite 102, Fort Myers.

It is estimated that one in every 31 children is diagnosed with some form of Autism Spectrum Disorder, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined.

Medical consultants for the project stress that an early diagnosis can make a vast difference for toddlers and their families. They say early intensive behavioral intervention can make an immense difference not just in the development of the child, but in their families as well.

The ASD screening is conducted by the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. The screenings are administered by an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, who has extensive training and experience in typical child development and developmental disorders.

A physician referral is not required. To schedule a screening, please call 239-343-6838.

About Golisano Children’s Hospital

Established in 1994, Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida has been named a “Top Hospital” three consecutive years by The Leapfrog Group. It is the only recognized children’s hospital between Tampa and Miami. Lee Health opened the new 134-bed Golisano Children’s Hospital in May 2017, relocating the children’s hospital from the adjacent HealthPark Medical Center. It includes comprehensive pediatric services including a 24-hour pediatric emergency department, hematology-oncology unit, milk lab, Regional Perinatal Intensive Care Center, and Level II and Level III NICU with 70 private rooms. Golisano Children’s Hospital is proud to have been named Soliant’s 2018 Most Beautiful Hospital in the U.S., a recognition determined by popular vote For more information, visit GolisanoChildrensSWFL.org



August 4, 2026 – Baptist Health has once again been recognized among the nation’s leading healthcare providers and remains South Florida’s most awarded healthcare system by U.S. News & World Report. With 63 recognitions across 33 specialties, procedures and conditions, Baptist Health has now led the region in overall distinctions for 16 consecutive years.

This year, Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care, Baptist Health Cancer Care, Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care and Baptist Health Orthopedic Care were once again recognized as being among the best programs in the nation. Baptist Health Orthopedic Care ranked #1 in South Florida and #23 in the nation, while Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care, Baptist Health Cancer Care and Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care were recognized among the top 10% of evaluated providers nationwide. Additional achievements for these specialties include:

  • Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care:
    • 7 recognitions, including stroke care, back surgery and complex neurological conditions.
  • Baptist Health Cancer Care:
    • 11 recognitions, including colon cancer surgery, gynecologic cancer, lung cancer surgery, prostate cancer, blood cancers (leukemia, lymphoma & myeloma) and complex cancers.
  • Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care:
    • 14 recognitions, including abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery, aortic valve surgery, heart arrhythmia, heart attack, heart failure, heart bypass surgery, and pacemaker implantation.
  • Baptist Health Orthopedic Care:
    • 9 recognitions, including hip fracture, hip replacement, knee replacement and various complex cases.

Seven Baptist Health hospitals earned U.S. News recognitions, including Baptist Hospital, South Miami Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, West Kendall Baptist Hospital, Boca Raton Regional Hospital and Bethesda Hospital (East & West). Baptist Hospital ranked #3 in South Florida, #7 in Florida and #46 nationally for Pulmonology & Lung Surgery. South Miami Hospital ranked #6 in South Florida and #21 in Florida. For Orthopedics, Doctors Hospital ranked #23 nationally, #2 in Florida and #1 in South Florida.

Baptist Health was also recognized for excellence in outpatient care with four surgery centers earning High Performing designations in ophthalmology and colonoscopy & endoscopy, further reflecting its comprehensive approach to quality care.

“This recognition is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the extraordinary people across Baptist Health who are committed to delivering exceptional, compassionate care every day,” said Bo Boulenger, President and CEO of Baptist Health. “Being South Florida’s most awarded healthcare system for 16 consecutive years underscores the dedication of our physicians, nurses and team members, and our shared commitment to advancing quality, innovation, research and excellence for the communities we serve.”

Fewer than half of the thousands of hospitals evaluated earned a High Performing designation in the types of care evaluated by U.S. News.

U.S. News’ annual Procedures & Conditions ratings are designed to assist patients and their health care providers in making informed decisions about where to receive care for challenging health conditions or elective procedures.

“When patients face a major surgery or a chronic medical condition, having access to clear, quality data is vital,” said U.S. News’ Managing Editor and Chief of Health Analysis Ben Harder. “A ‘High Performing’ rating means that Baptist Health South Florida outperformed a national threshold, giving families a reliable starting point as they consult with their doctors to choose the best place for care.”

U.S. News evaluated nearly 4,500 hospitals across 14 adult specialties and 23 procedures and conditions; less than half earned recognition in any of those 37 areas of care. To determine the Best Hospitals, U.S. News analyzed each hospital’s performance based on objective measures such as risk-adjusted mortality rates, preventable complications and patient experience. The Best Hospitals Specialty rankings methodology and Procedures & Conditions ratings methodology measure patient outcomes using data from over 800 million records of patient care.

 

About Baptist Health South Florida

Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 30,000 employees, 4,500 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and the Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News & World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

About U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews.com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, insurance, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services.