It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Hamner Tower gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Tampa, FL is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Excellent agency, Great bosses and competitive pay, great service with your caregivers”
“We have used Always Best Senior Care many times. Their service has always exceeded our”
“Maria has been the best caregiver I had for in home care from Always Best”
“ABC was a life saver for my family and me. The care givers were all”
“had very good service with wonderful caring workers for my mom”
“Let me start off by saying that Always Best Care is the best home health”
“If you’re looking for care for a loved one, or a job as a caregiver”
“Always best care tarpon Springs office has been a life saver with caring for my”
“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”
“I'm a former employee of ABC and I had an awesome experience working with them.”
“I'm a HHA for this company and there amazing people to work for!!”
“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”
“I have used Always Best Care for two extended periods. All the staff assigned to”
“Raina King is a true angel, a gift from God. Our beloved Grandmother passed away”
“I love working for for ABC. The owner's are very compassionate about their clients and”
“I’ve worked for Always Best Care going on a year. I love Jeri and Keith,”
“Keith and Jeri are angels that walk among us. My in-laws have been receiving care”
“ABC is a well managed and high quality home health care service. All the workers”
“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my”
“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my”
“Excellent agency, Great bosses and competitive pay, great service with your caregivers”
“We have used Always Best Senior Care many times. Their service has always exceeded our expectations. I would not hesitate to recommend them. I can not thank them enough for the care and support over the years!”
“Maria has been the best caregiver I had for in home care from Always Best Care in Tarpon Springs for over a year! She helps with the daily task, transportation and food preparation. All around wonderful service and well-trained caregiver. The difference is that she wants to help you, not just there to get paid. Maria is something special and a very good cook. I highly recommend Always Best Care for senior services. (Stephen Loyek)”
“ABC was a life saver for my family and me. The care givers were all fantastic. My step-mom’s final year and days and the quality of her life were certainly enhanced with the help of this awesome company. Everyone at the company, especially Lisa Crase was so helpful and compassionate. They were all here for us at a very difficult time. I would highly recommend this company if you need an easy and flexible care giver situation for a family member. I just really cannot thank ABC for everything they did for us. Nancy Chango, Tampa, FL”
“had very good service with wonderful caring workers for my mom”
“Let me start off by saying that Always Best Care is the best home health company I’ve ever worked for ! The management treats you like family , they are very considerate and understanding & they make sure we are treating our clients like family as well ! They help make sure that we are providing our clients with the best care possible by choosing the best caregiver that fits each client. Also , There is flexible scheduling where you can pick what schedule fits you best. I love this company because they show me every day that I am appreciated it.”
“If you’re looking for care for a loved one, or a job as a caregiver this is the best place. The owners are very hands on, and they service a wide area. I’ve been with the company for years, I’ve seen the work from staff and it’s amazing the way everyone comes together so that every client receives the best possible care.”
“Always best care tarpon Springs office has been a life saver with caring for my mother with dementia. Her caregiver Linda is so dedicated to her job, and my mom and me love her to death. She is very communicative, and passionate about what she does. My mom could not live independently if i did not have always best care and linda by her side. Also whenever speaking with scheduling and office staff- they are always helpful and friendly too! Thanks guys! Yall do amazing work!”
“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”
“I'm a former employee of ABC and I had an awesome experience working with them. The office staff is very warm and welcoming. The owners, Keith and Jeri are super nice and personable. They recognize their employees every month, they also have different events where we could get together and socialize. I've learned so much more, that wasn't taught at "school". Not a bad company to work for.”
“I'm a HHA for this company and there amazing people to work for!!”
“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”
“I have used Always Best Care for two extended periods. All the staff assigned to take care of my father were excellent and punctual. The office staff are great and have become great friends. I would recommend this company for the care of your family members.”
“Raina King is a true angel, a gift from God. Our beloved Grandmother passed away today and unfortunately we live far away. Raina was in constant communication with us through the entire journey. She gave great comfort to our loved one and we could not have been blessed with a better person to be by Gram’s side. God Bless you and all that you do. ????????❤️ Highly recommend.”
“I love working for for ABC. The owner's are very compassionate about their clients and caregivers. They go above and beyond to help those in need. I have 20+ years in healthcare and I have never worked with such an AMAZING team!”
“I’ve worked for Always Best Care going on a year. I love Jeri and Keith, very understanding. Rebeca, Natalie and Lisa, Also in the office, all listen to our needs and concerns. They are very understanding to all the caregivers, I feel like a big family with our clients. Working for this company is like having a very big extended family and I love it and would not give it up. And yes I would definitely and highly recommend Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs Florida. The extended family that I don’t have, but I do now. Thank you for letting me be a part of Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs Florida.”
“Keith and Jeri are angels that walk among us. My in-laws have been receiving care from Always Best since May 2019. They are in their 90’s and still in their own home. This has been a year of challenges as my mother-in-law has dementia and my father-in-law’s health has gotten more tenuous. Keith has taken my dad to the hospital and urgent care, grocery shopped for them and scrambled to provide aides on short notice after hospitalization. We live out of state and I have had to depend on them so much. Jeri and Keith go above and beyond and I trust them implicitly! I can’t say enough good about them and I know that they will be successful because they are ethical, caring and operate their business with the highest degree of integrity. We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have been referred to them.”
“ABC is a well managed and high quality home health care service. All the workers have been consistently good and provide excellent care for our father. Rebeca has been awesome to ensure our needs are satisfied and that we always have the round the clock coverage we need.”
“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my mom is in good hands. She enjoys their services and I highly recommend them! Thank you for your love and kindness.”
“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my mom is in good hands. She enjoys their services and I highly recommend them!”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Ballast Point Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Mise en Place or visit Sulphur Springs Water Tower, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Tampa, FL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Tampa, FL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Tampa, FL 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
APOLLO BEACH, FL — The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach welcomed 18 new cold-stressed turtles on Wednesday, hitting capacity for the first time since its opening, according to a news release.There are no 56 turtles under critical care at the center — the highest number at one time — in what the aquarium calls “an unprecedented challenge … as frigi...
APOLLO BEACH, FL — The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach welcomed 18 new cold-stressed turtles on Wednesday, hitting capacity for the first time since its opening, according to a news release.
There are no 56 turtles under critical care at the center — the highest number at one time — in what the aquarium calls “an unprecedented challenge … as frigid temperatures continue to threaten endangered sea turtles along Florida’s east coast.
“This is one of the earliest and most severe cold-stress events we’ve ever seen,” Dr. Debi Luke, senior vice president of conservation at The Florida Aquarium, said. “We usually see strandings peak between late February and April, but we’re already at full capacity, and more turtles are continuing to struggle.”
When water temperatures drop into the low 50s, sea turtles become lethargic and float to the surface, leaving them vulnerable to predators and possibly stranding on shore, according to the aquarium.
This winter alone, The Florida Aquarium has taken in 49 cold-stressed turtles, a number that could continue to rise as chilly conditions persist. Other sea turtle rehabilitation centers across the state are at or near capacity, forcing difficult decisions about which turtles receive care.
The cost of rehabilitating a single sea turtle can reach $15,000, with some patients requiring months to a year of intensive care.
At The Florida Aquarium, each sea turtle receives comprehensive medical care, including examinations, x-rays, bloodwork, ongoing treatments and medications throughout their stay.
Although the federal Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act has bipartisan support in the House and is expected in the Senate, there are currently no government funding programs available to offset the costs for caring for these endangered animals, the aquarium said.
People can donate directly to The Florida Aquarium’s sea turtle conservation efforts or visit the aquarium. A portion of every ticket sold goes toward sea turtle rehabilitation efforts. Stranded or distressed sea turtles to FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC.
“The reality is sea turtle bed space, and finances are maxed out,” Luke added. “We need the public’s help now more than ever.”
TAMPA, FL — Mariana Gillen, 17, struggled in school from a young age.“I was falling behind starting in the first grade, not catching up like most children were,” she told Patch. “Even in kindergarten I had trouble with rhyming and reading, and my timings on reading in the first grade, I was the slowest in there. I would always get caught up (with) the 'p’s and 'q's and the 'b's and the 'd's, which is one of the big early signs of dyslexia.”Now, the Tampa senior’s biggest passion is assi...
TAMPA, FL — Mariana Gillen, 17, struggled in school from a young age.
“I was falling behind starting in the first grade, not catching up like most children were,” she told Patch. “Even in kindergarten I had trouble with rhyming and reading, and my timings on reading in the first grade, I was the slowest in there. I would always get caught up (with) the 'p’s and 'q's and the 'b's and the 'd's, which is one of the big early signs of dyslexia.”
Now, the Tampa senior’s biggest passion is assisting other families and students who are struggling with dyslexia.
She was diagnosed with the learning disability in the second grade, which is young for those with dyslexia, she said. But she continued to struggle after this diagnosis as it was a different time and classroom accommodations weren’t readily available, Gillen added.
Wanting to help others, she launched a nonprofit organization, MARI Kits, as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project.
As a 14-year-old, she started creating toolkits for children with dyslexia in grades kindergarten through third grade. She’s given out hundreds of these kits to students in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, paying for them with money she made from her part-time jobs at Chick-fil-A and a dance studio.
These kits include everything from noise-canceling headphones to dry erase boards and markers to word tiles to highlighting strips, as well as a copy of the book “The Alphabet War,” a story about dyslexia.
“I used them over the years through my dyslexia and I’m grateful for all of them,” Gillen said. “All these tools really speak to me.”
Through her nonprofit organization, she’s elevated this work by presenting educational sessions at libraries, schools and even doctor’s offices on the early signs of dyslexia. She also hands out pamphlets that she distributes about the learning disability — what it is, what the signs are and why early screening matters.
“At least they’ll have something they are able to look at when it comes to their child, something to keep an eye on,” she said.
As Gillen wraps up her senior year of high school, she plans to dedicate her career to helping those with dyslexia and continue running MARI Kits while in college.
“I’m very passionate about dyslexia and really helping empower children and parents,” she said.
Residents of FL who drink tap water could be getting a dangerous cocktail of hundreds of chemicals, heavy metals and radioactive substances.Patch Staff|Updated Thu, Feb 27, 2025 at 11:40 am ETStory synopsis:FLORIDA — Residents of Florida who drink tap water could be getting a dangerous cocktail of hundreds of chemicals, heavy metals and radioactive substances every day, according to an analysis of the nation’s drinking water supply released Wednesday.Florida’s 1,603 public water...
Patch Staff
|Updated Thu, Feb 27, 2025 at 11:40 am ET
Story synopsis:
FLORIDA — Residents of Florida who drink tap water could be getting a dangerous cocktail of hundreds of chemicals, heavy metals and radioactive substances every day, according to an analysis of the nation’s drinking water supply released Wednesday.
Florida’s 1,603 public water utilities, which serves 21,328,000 people, have 126 known contaminants, according to the Environmental Working Group, a research and environmental advocacy nonprofit organization. A search-by-ZIP-code function allows people to see what’s in their community’s drinking water.
Total trihalomethanes, haloacetic acids, radium combined (-226 & -228) and chromium (hexavalent) are some of the detected contaminants.
EWG analyzed water quality data from nearly 50,000 water systems collected between 2021 and 2023. It identified 324 contaminants in drinking water supplies across the country, with almost all community water systems having detectable contaminants.
The report comes amid federal government upheaval that jeopardizes landmark standards regulating PFAS — a dangerous, ubiquitous class of chemicals linked to cancer, reproductive issues and other serious health problems.
The final rules, approved in April, are “the most significant action on drinking water in a generation for some of the worst chemicals in drinking water — a tremendous public health plan,” Melanie Benesh, the EWG’s vice president of government affairs, told Patch.
“It means thousands of people are not going to get sick or die from serious, chronic diseases,” she said. “It shouldn’t be reversed. Lives and health are at stake.”
More than 143 million people are exposed to PFAS in their drinking water, according to data from the Environmental Protection Agency. PFAS have been detected in nearly every American’s blood, including newborns.
President Donald Trump’s “Regulatory Freeze Pending Review” memorandum in January directed agency and department heads to consider delaying the effective date of any final rules published in the Federal Register for 60 days pending review.
That’s not unusual any time there’s a change in the administration and agency leadership, Benesh said.
Lee Zeldin was sworn in as the 17th administrator of the EPA on Jan. 25. As a congressman representing New York’s 1st District from 2015 to 2023, he voted in favor of tougher regulation of PFAS.
Though a positive sign, Benesh said the EWG and other safe-water advocates have “real concerns that these landmark health protections for our drinking water will be significantly weakened and rolled back.”
Also in January, the Trump administration withdrew a proposed rule from the previous administration that would have subjected manufacturers to federal discharge limits on PFAS. The withdrawal means there is no federal limit on the amount of PFAS a manufacturer can release into waterways. That places greater burden on states to place limits on states.
Legislation pending in California would require the stature to pass an emergency resolution codifying the federal limits in the event that the EPA weakens the standards, Benesh noted.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if other states follow suit,” she said.
Dozens of states have adopted policies concerning PFAS.
Florida adopted two House bills, 5001 and 1475, in 2022.
HB 5001 allowed $29.6 million to go toward the testing and remediation of any pollutant that is a perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substance.
Meanwhile, HB 1475 mandated the Department of Environmental Protection to adopt regulations for cleanup and target levels for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in soil and groundwater by a particular date.
The Trump administration has also asked for a stay on pending litigation surrounding the PFAS standards. The final rules face a multidistrict legal challenge in U.S. District Court in South Carolina, a consolidation of 10,000 associated cases with tens of thousands of plaintiffs.
Defendants include large companies such as 3M, DuPont, Chemours and Corteva.
“It is imperative that we do everything we can to keep them in place,” Benesh said of the standards. “The Trump administration, on the whole, has been very sympathetic to chemical companies.”
The Biden administration also unlocked nearly $1 billion in funding to help states and territories implement PFAS treatment measures through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Some of the money in the Safe Drinking Water Act revolving loan fund has already been distributed. But it’s unclear how Trump’s pause on infrastructure spending could affect PFAS mitigation, which many utilities would be unable to tackle without government help.
Other key findings in Wednesday’s EWG report include:
Volatile organic compounds: VOCs like trichloroethylene or TCE, perchloroethylene and benzene are widespread contaminants linked to industrial pollution and environmental persistence. These chemicals, even at low concentrations, can cause cancer, liver damage and neurological issues. They are found in tap water at levels ranging from parts per trillion to parts per billion.
Nitrate: Nitrates from farm runoff and wastewater can contaminate drinking water, especially in rural areas. Long-term exposure to high nitrate levels can cause serious health problems, including cancer, thyroid issues and harm to developing babies. Nitrate contamination is particularly dangerous for infants, especially when used in baby formula, as it can lead to life-threatening conditions like methemoglobinemia.
Heavy metals: Arsenic is a naturally occurring mineral that causes bladder, lung and skin cancer as well as harm to the skin and lungs. Arsenic is found in drinking water in all 50 states
Hexavalent chromium, or chromium-6, is a carcinogen made infamous by the Erin Brockovich case in California, and is in the drinking water of over 250 million Americans. There is no federal limit for chromium-6, despite its widespread presence and link to cancer and organ damage.
Disinfection byproducts: Chlorine disinfectants used to treat water can form harmful byproducts linked to cancer and reproductive health issues. These byproducts are consistently found in large water systems serving millions of people.
Radiological contaminants: Radium and uranium were detected in many water systems, sometimes exceeding EPA limits. Long-term exposure can lead to neurological disorders, developmental delays and organ damage. Radioactive elements like radium and uranium, naturally occurring or released from mining and industrial processes, increase cancer risk due to ionizing radiation.
Fluoride: While fluoride is added to water for dental health, high levels can cause dental and skeletal fluorosis and may harm children's neurodevelopment. Some communities have seen fluoride concentrations exceed recommended limits.
If you're looking for something fun to do this weekend (February 28-March 2), there's plenty of action happening around the Tampa Bay area.Looking for more fun? Click here.When: 5:30 p.m.Where: 801 Water Street, TampaCost: $75Info: Featuring keynote speaker Leonard George Jr., Esq., a trailblazer in sports and media.When: 7 p.m.Where: 711 N Franklin Street, TampaCost: $53Info: Watch the magician and comedian...
If you're looking for something fun to do this weekend (February 28-March 2), there's plenty of action happening around the Tampa Bay area.
Looking for more fun? Click here.
When: 5:30 p.m.Where: 801 Water Street, TampaCost: $75Info: Featuring keynote speaker Leonard George Jr., Esq., a trailblazer in sports and media.
When: 7 p.m.Where: 711 N Franklin Street, TampaCost: $53Info: Watch the magician and comedian take the stage at the historic Tampa Theatre.
When: 6 p.m.Where: 1001 E Cumberland Avenue, TampaCost: $35Info: Rising local stars and celebrated national artists come together for a night of music, food and more.
When: 11 a.m.Where: 263 W Central Avenue, Winter HavenCost: FreeInfo: This family-friendly event will have food, games and entertainment.
When: 8 a.m.Where: 190 S. Florida Avenue, BartowCost: FreeInfo: A group bike ride that will take you down scenic routes in Polk County.
When: 1 p.m.Where: 401 E Bird Street, TampaCost: $60-$65Info: Sample over 200 beers from tons of Florida craft brewers.
When: 11 a.m.Where: 8098 66th Street N, Pinellas ParkCost: $8Info: Find several local food vendors and entertainment at this fun event.
When: 9 a.m.Where: 1001 N. Boulevard, TampaCost: FreeInfo: Explore art of all mediums at the 55th annual festival.
When: 6 p.m.Where: 711 N Franklin Street, TampaCost: $30-$125Info: Toast the Oscar nominees and celebrate the winners together at Tampa Theatre.
When: All weekend, 10 a.m.Where: 303 BerryFest Place, Plant CityCost: $15Info: The annual spring celebration is back with rides, entertainment and strawberry treats galore.
When: All weekend, starting Friday at 8:30 a.m.Where: 400 1st Street South, St. PetersburgCost: Click here for ticket informationInfo: Watch the downtown St. Pete streets get turned into a raceway.
When: All weekend, 12 p.m.Where: 7720 W Courtney Campbell Causeway, TampaCost: $20-$75Info: Find tons of entertainment at this charity event for Shriner's Children's - Florida.
When: Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m.Where: 100 E Main Street, BartowCost: FreeInfo: Find everything from antique cars to paintings and restored violins.
When: All weekend, starting Friday at 6 p.m.Where: 255 Drew Street, ClearwaterCost: FreeInfo: Enjoy live music and delicious seafood at this annual event.
If you have any upcoming weekend events, send them to [email protected] for consideration.
The TGH Behavioral Health Hospital offers specialized and personalized care for behavioral and mental health conditions.Tampa, FL – February 25, 2025 – Tampa General Hospital (TGH), Lifepoint Health, and the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine formally cut the ribbon today and celebrated the grand opening of the TGH Behavioral Health Hospital.The TGH Behavioral Health Hospital, located in the center of the Tampa Medical &Research District (...
The TGH Behavioral Health Hospital offers specialized and personalized care for behavioral and mental health conditions.
Tampa, FL – February 25, 2025 – Tampa General Hospital (TGH), Lifepoint Health, and the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine formally cut the ribbon today and celebrated the grand opening of the TGH Behavioral Health Hospital.
The TGH Behavioral Health Hospital, located in the center of the Tampa Medical &Research District (TMRD), is Florida’s first and only freestanding academic medical center-affiliated behavioral health hospital. It results from a joint venture between TGH and Lifepoint Behavioral Health, a business unit of Lifepoint Health.
“With the opening of TGH Behavioral Health Hospital, we are making a significant leap forward in addressing the pressing need for mental health services in our community and across Florida,” said John Couris, president and CEO of Tampa General Hospital. “This facility is more than just a hospital—it is a beacon of hope for patients and their families, offering compassionate, personalized care provided by world-class academic-based physicians with access to the latest research and cutting-edge technologies.”
The TGH Behavioral Health Hospital, located at 1303 West Kennedy Boulevard, opens to the public in March. The new building spans approximately 83,000 square feet and features 96 inpatient beds. As a higher level of care for patients in crisis due to a mental health condition, inpatient treatment will offer personalized 24-hour care consisting of medication management, safety planning and therapy, both group and individual. In the next few months, partial hospitalization and outpatient treatment services will be available.
“We believe partnerships like this one are transformative for our communities,” said David Dill, chairman and chief executive officer of Lifepoint Health. “Our team first partnered with Tampa General in 2020 to build the TGH Rehabilitation Hospital, and expanding on our work together to bring additional specialty services to the region was a natural next step. By leveraging the respective strengths of Lifepoint, TGH and USF Health, this hospital will have an outsized impact on access to vitally needed mental and behavioral healthcare in Florida. We know that accessible care changes lives in innumerable ways, which is why it’s the driving force behind Lifepoint’s mission of making communities healthier.”
The hospital’s expert team of academic-medicine-based USF Health psychiatrists and psychologists, supported by Tampa General therapists and specialized nursing staff, will work collaboratively to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
“Through our comprehensive academic, research and clinical activities, the University of South Florida is uniquely positioned to help address the growing demand for behavioral health services in our community, and we are proud to take part in this important initiative alongside our partners at Tampa General Hospital,” University of South Florida President Rhea Law said. “We deeply appreciate our state leaders for supporting this project that will provide significant impacts for patients and for recognizing the immense value that TGH and USF Health contribute to our region, our state and beyond.”
Tampa General tapped Doug Leonardo to serve as the president and CEO of the TGH Behavioral Health Hospital. Leonardo brings more than 25 years of experience in behavioral health, having developed and implemented strategies to increase access to care, improve the cost of care and develop services in new markets. He has successfully integrated behavioral health care services at 12 hospitals and emergency departments in Florida’s largest metropolitan areas.
“This is the start of a new era in mental health care, combining academic excellence with patient-centered treatment,” said Leonardo. “The TGH Behavioral Health Hospital will transform the landscape of behavioral health services in Florida, ensuring that individuals and families receive the support they need for mental wellness and recovery.”
The opening of the TGH Behavioral Health Hospital comes at a pivotal moment, as mental health needs continue to rise across the nation. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, nearly one in four Americans lives with a mental illness, and more than half the U.S. population resides in an area with a shortage of mental health professionals.
“The TGH Behavioral Health Hospital is a prime example of how the public and private sectors can work together to bridge the gap in mental health services,” said Senator Kathleen Passidomo. “We are proud to work with Tampa General to set the standard for the nation in quality and access to care.”
The Florida Legislature passed Senate Bill 330 during the 2024 legislative session to create a behavioral health teaching hospital designation in state statute. The law names the TGH Behavioral Health Hospital as the first of just four behavioral health teaching hospitals in the state.
The TGH Behavioral Health Hospital will serve as a key behavioral health training and education center. As Florida’s first designated behavioral health teaching hospital, it will provide invaluable hands-on learning opportunities for medical students and residents from USF Health’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences at the Morsani College of Medicine.
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