North Walton Doctors Hospital celebrated its first anniversary with leaders reflecting on its opening, growth, and staff contributions.
The hospital, located south of DeFuniak Springs, added surgical care in May 2025 and offers multiple outpatient services.
Leadership emphasized plans for continued expansion to meet health care needs across Walton County.
North Walton Doctors Hospital (NWDH) celebrated its first anniversary this week, marking a year of providing emergency and surgical care to residents of Walton County. The hospital, located on Highway 331 just south of DeFuniak Springs, opened its newly renovated facility one year ago.
Hospital leaders, staff, and community members gathered for the event. Chief Financial Officer Andrew O’Connell described the past year as a period of promise and growth. O’Connell, who came out of retirement to join the hospital, said the project was too important to pass up, given the health care needs along the Highway 331 corridor.
“Our vision is to have the highest level of health care, and that can only be accomplished with a team that has the same passion for health care,” O’Connell said. “That is exactly the team we have.”
Dr. Huy Nguyen, CEO and founder of the hospital, reflected on the challenges of establishing the facility, which was purchased in August 2023 and underwent extensive renovation before reopening. He compared the process of building the hospital to the care of a newborn, emphasizing the responsibility and teamwork required.
“This hospital, for me, and I know for a lot of staff who have worked here from the very beginning, is like nurturing and caring for a living, growing baby,” Nguyen said.
Attendees learned that nearly every part of the facility was updated during renovations, with only the exterior walls left intact. Nguyen said all departments were equipped with new technology and emphasized that the hospital is fully compliant with state regulations.
The hospital began offering surgical services in May 2025, in addition to its existing emergency department. Outpatient services currently include laboratory work, radiology, and infusion therapy.
Looking ahead, NWDH leaders said they plan to expand health care offerings in Walton County. Nguyen credited the hospital’s staff for ensuring safe and consistent care during its first year.
“I am so grateful for the doctors, nurses, and staff that work here who were so vigilant that, at the very least, we have provided safe care,” Nguyen said. “I am happy to say that we have provided that mission.”
More information about the hospital and its services is available at nwdhospital.com.
Pro Communi Bono
St. Francis De Sales, Ora Pro Nobis!
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