BayCare's economic footprint in Pasco County grew 71% to $677 million, the sharpest increase of any county the health system serves, according to a new study released Wednesday, Sept. 9.

Statewide impact reaches $13 billion annually

The Washington Economics Group report, based on 2025 data, found BayCare generates $13 billion in annual economic impact across Florida and supports more than 66,000 jobs statewide. That overall figure is up 30% from the firm's previous study, which used 2022 data.

Wesley Chapel hospital drives Pasco County growth

Pasco's outsized growth is tied largely to one facility. BayCare Hospital Wesley Chapel, the system's 16th hospital, opened in east Pasco County in 2023 and has steadily added services since. The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration designated it a Level 1 adult cardiovascular services provider effective July 1, according to a Laker/Lutz News report.

BayCare also opened the state's first behavioral health urgent care in Pasco County in 2025, serving more than 1,600 patients in its first year, according to the system's 2025 community report.

County-by-county economic impact figures

Across the region, Pinellas County leads in raw dollars at more than $5.1 billion, followed by Hillsborough County at more than $4.1 billion and Polk County at more than $1 billion. Manatee County accounts for $88 million.

CEO points to disciplined growth strategy

BayCare President and CEO Stephanie Conners said in the Sept. 9 release, "Health care is changing rapidly, and at BayCare, our disciplined growth also serves the region by providing high-quality care while supporting jobs, workforce development, research, community partnerships and investments that help strengthen Florida's economy."

Jobs and hospital-level impact breakdown

The study found 77% of the jobs BayCare supports are in higher-wage, knowledge-based services. BayCare's 16 hospitals account for $8.7 billion of the total impact. BayCare Medical Group, the system's multispecialty physician practice, grew 154% to $1.9 billion.

BayCare's operating revenues reached $6.97 billion in 2025, up from $6.27 billion in 2024, according to the system's community report.

Future projects to add billions in impact

Looking ahead, BayCare's planned capital projects through 2030 are expected to add $6.6 billion in cumulative economic impact and 30,871 jobs. Those plans include a new hospital in Manatee County opening in 2028 and a children's hospital facility in Tampa opening in 2030.