Joshua Wagner, Divisional Director at Aviata Health Group and Senior Vice President of the Florida Health Care Association, shares his journey from aspiring physician to healthcare leader and how embracing his purpose transformed his career trajectory.

• Born and raised in Florida, began in pre-med before discovering his calling in health services administration

• Brings over a decade of leadership experience across healthcare organizations, including Millennial Healthcare, Clear Choice Healthcare, and Aviata Health Group

• Currently oversees business development and leadership development initiatives for Aviata’s 58 facilities

• Serves as Senior Vice President for the Florida Health Care Association and has held multiple leadership roles on its Executive Board, including Treasurer and Secretary

• Advocates for early involvement in professional associations to build influence and drive change

• Recognizes Florida’s unique position as a leader in healthcare quality due to collaborative providers and supportive legislation

• Applies a 30-60-90 day improvement plan to help struggling facilities elevate operations and care standards

• Leverages healthy competition to engage teams and improve outcomes for residents

• Encourages forming employee-led engagement teams that strengthen workplace culture and ownership

• Credits his grandfather’s influence and a pivotal lunch with a CCRC CEO for sparking his passion for long-term care

• Expresses gratitude to industry colleagues for their mentorship and partnership in advancing quality care

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