Healthcare Stars of the Community honored by HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital

Lehigh Acres, FL — HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital proudly attended the annual East Lee Chamber of Commerce Gala on Saturday, March 7, at the Plantation Golf and Country Club in Fort Myers. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Healthcare Stars of the Community awards — a special tradition recognizing individuals who exemplify excellence, innovation, and compassionate service in healthcare.

This year, HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital was honored to recognize Dr. Joseph Yurich, MD, and Krystal Minton, clinical nurse coordinator of surgical services, as its 2026 Healthcare Stars of the Community.

Dr. Joseph Yurich, MD

HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital is incredibly grateful to have Dr. Joseph Yurich as part of its medical staff. He exemplifies clinical excellence, forward-thinking innovation, and an unwavering commitment to patient care.

This year marked an exciting milestone for the hospital with the investment in DV5 robotic surgical technology, significantly expanding access to advanced, minimally invasive procedures in Lehigh Acres. The technology offers greater precision, smaller incisions, faster recovery times, and improved outcomes for patients.

Dr. Yurich performed the first robotic surgery at HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital, ushering in a new era of surgical care for the community. Being the first to lead such a milestone requires more than technical skill — it demands leadership, confidence, and a steadfast commitment to advancing medicine for the benefit of patients.

Thanks to Dr. Yurich’s expertise and dedication, patients who once had to travel outside the community for advanced surgical care can now receive that care close to home, surrounded by their families and support systems. His innovation and leadership truly make him a Healthcare Star of the Community.

Krystal Minton, clinical nurse coordinator

The hospital also proudly recognized Krystal Minton, clinical nurse coordinator of surgical services, for her outstanding leadership and compassionate care.

At HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital, excellence is celebrated through programs such as Colleague of the Month and Caregiver of the Week, which honor team members who consistently go above and beyond. Krystal has been nominated by her peers time and again — a true testament to the respect and admiration she has earned from colleagues who work alongside her every day.

She is recognized for her consistent excellence in leadership, her calm presence in high-pressure situations, and her unwavering advocacy for patients. As a clinical nurse coordinator, Krystal not only delivers exceptional bedside care, but also mentors colleagues, fosters collaboration, and ensures that every patient experience reflects the hospital’s commitment to quality and compassion.

Her leadership strengthens the nursing team, and her dedication makes a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families. Krystal’s professionalism, heart, and representation of the very best of HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital make her a true star of the community.

HCA Florida Lehigh Hospital remains committed to advancing healthcare in Lehigh Acres and is proud to celebrate the individuals who make that mission possible every day.