BayCare Expands Urgent Care Access to Patients as Young as 6 Months

BayCare is strengthening its commitment to families across West Central Florida by expanding urgent care access to children as young as 6 months. By lowering the age limit from 2 years old, BayCare Urgent Care sites make it easier to access high-quality care close to home.  

One of the providers spearheading the change has been Danielle Palmieri, a physician assistant who works at several different BayCare Urgent Care sites. With 27 years of experience, including clinical emergency medicine experience at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital and Morton Plant Hospital, Palmieri believes this was an important milestone to increase access to care. 

“What sets us apart from many others in the urgent care space is the high level of clinically excellent pediatric care that BayCare offers,” said Palmieri. “We want those who care for little ones to understand that we are here for you past normal business hours, and if you need a connection to a higher level of care, we’ve got St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital and a multitude of pediatric experts ready to help.”   

BayCare Urgent Care facilities can treat conditions including fever, cold, sinus infection, flu, animal bites, minor cuts, minor burns, strains and sprains. With on-site labs, imaging, immunizations, and even school and sports physicals, families can rely on a wide range of convenient care in one location. 

“Expanding access to care for some of our youngest patients is a priority for BayCare,” said Dr. Chris Bucciarelli, vice president of ambulatory services and chief medical officer. “Our BayCare Urgent Care sites administer high-quality, compassionate care every day, and we're pleased to offer this convenient service to even more families now.”  

BayCare’s 17 Urgent Care locations across West Central Florida are open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday–Friday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends. 

Learn more: BayCare Urgent Care