- November 20, 2024
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New data from Flagler County’s Economic Development Office and Florida Commerce confirm health care employment has become the No. 1 industry sector in Flagler County, surpassing accommodation and food services for the first time.
“Research from the Palm Coast Flagler Regional Chamber of Commerce has consistently suggested our region focus on diversifying our economy by creating better-paying health care jobs,” Greg Blosé, president and CEO of Palm Coast-Flagler Regional Chamber of Commerce said in a press release by the Chamber. “With our public and private sector partners leading the way over the past three years, we have successfully grown the health care industry in Flagler County. This is a huge accomplishment and shows the power of our community when we work together.”
Denyse Bales-Chubb, president/CEO of the AdventHealth market in Flagler and St. Johns counties, said, “For over two decades, we’ve been dedicated to serving our community, and we are proud of our role in reaching this new milestone of health care becoming the largest job creator in Flagler County.
“A year ago, we opened the county’s second hospital, marking a $167 million investment in our growing community’s infrastructure. This second hospital answered a great need in our community because as our community has grown, so has the need for additional health care services. In addition, our two hospitals had significant increases in patients seeking care last year, which led us to hire more team members and physicians, with even more on the way.”
According to the Bureau of Workforce Statistics and Economic Research, the top three employment industry sectors in Flagler County are:
1. Health care and social services – 4,396
2. Accommodation and food services – 4,304
3. Retail trade – 4,297
Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin said the growth of the health care industry is not just about the numbers.
“It’s about enhancing the quality of life for our residents and creating viable, well-paying jobs,” Alfin said. “As we continue to grow and diversify our economy, Palm Coast has emerged as a regional destination for health care training and technology, further positioning our community at the forefront of innovation and excellence.”
