The Health Care District of Palm Beach County recently marked the centennial of the Edward J. Healey Rehabilitation and Nursing Center with a ceremony. More than 50 community leaders, county and city officials, current and former staff, and residents attended the celebration at the 120-bed facility in Riviera Beach which is owned and operated by the Health Care District. The Healey Center, a U.S. News 2017-18 and 2016-2017 Best Nursing Homes recipient, opened at its current site five years ago. The facility relocated from West Palm Beach where the formerly named “Palm Beach County Home” and “Poor Farm” had served the community since 1918.
“The legacy of the Healey Center dates back to the birth of this county and the mission to serve those in need continues to this day,” said Darcy J. Davis, CEO of the Healthcare District of Palm Beach County in her remarks. “The Health Care District is proud to recognize our skilled nursing home for reaching this historic milestone.”
The Healey Center serves eligible Palm Beach County residents with traumatic injuries or debilitating illnesses. Unlike a typical nursing home, the average age of the residents at the Healey Center is 55 years old. Residents often arrive at the Healey Center unable to walk or talk. The Healey Center’s professional staff delivers occupational, physical, and speech therapy that successfully returns residents to their highest optimal capabilities and gives long-term residents a second chance at quality of life.