Martin Memorial Health Systems' proposed 80-bed hospital moved one step closer to reality Dec. 1 when Florida officials granted final approval for the nonprofit to build a hospital in western Port St. Lucie. But Lawnwood Regional Medical Center & Heart Institute and St. Lucie Medical Center, the two HCA Inc.-owned hospitals that have fought against Martin Memorial's efforts to provide medical care in St. Lucie County, still could appeal the decision of the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration. Both hospitals' legal teams are reviewing the order, officials said.
