A new Brighter Days Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care center opened in Palm Bay on June 6, 2026, offering specialized nursing care for medically fragile children from birth through age 21. The facility expands services to the area alongside an existing center in Melbourne, according to founders Luis Arango, Jessica Medina, and Michael Medina. The program focuses on children with complex medical needs who require ongoing care beyond typical outpatient services.
The center is located at 1234 Palm Bay Parkway, a site chosen for its accessibility to local hospitals and transportation routes. Luis Arango, co-founder and operations director, said the facility will serve up to 50 children daily, with plans to increase capacity as demand grows. 'We saw a gap in care for families who need round-the-clock support,' Arango said. 'This center is about providing stability for both children and their families.'
Services include 24/7 nursing care, physical therapy, and coordination with specialists. The program works with insurance providers to cover care for eligible patients, though some families pay out-of-pocket. Jessica Medina, a former pediatric nurse, emphasized the need for such facilities. 'These children often face delays in school and social activities because of their care needs,' she said. 'Our goal is to help them thrive in their communities.'
The center has already partnered with Brevard Healthcare and Florida Hospital for referrals. Michael Medina, who handles administrative operations, noted that the Palm Bay location will employ 20 full-time staff, including nurses, therapists, and case managers. The facility is open Monday through Friday, with plans to expand weekend hours by early 2027.