March 23, 2023 – Ashley Vertuno, FACHE, chief executive officer of HCA Florida JFK North Hospital in Palm Beach, has been named to Modern Healthcare’s prestigious list of the Top 25 Emerging Leaders for 2023.

The program recognizes the healthcare industry’s rising stars age 40 and under who contribute to a culture of innovation and help their organizations achieve and exceed financial, operational and clinical goals.

“At a time of great change for the healthcare industry, this year’s class of emerging leaders demonstrates many of the skills that will be required to move organizations forward and improve patients’ lives,” said Mary Ellen Podmolik, editor-in-chief of Modern Healthcare.

In November 2020, then 32-year-old Ashley Vertuno became HCA Healthcare’s youngest hospital CEO. Since then, she has expanded HCA Florida JFK North Hospital’s service lines and recruited new physicians while maintaining the hospital’s accredited status as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center.

“I suppose healthcare is just a part of my DNA,” she says. “Here at JFK North, we’re committed to the care and improvement of human life. That drives me every day.”

In addition to serving as the hospital’s top executive, Vertuno is chairperson for the 2023 Palm Beach County Go Red for Women.

“Our goal is to ensure every woman in Palm Beach County is aware of her heart disease risk and more importantly, is empowered to take control of her well-being,” she adds.

Vertuno also mentors others through her involvement in the American College of Healthcare Executives and various professional associations.

“I’m grateful to the HCA family for nominating me for this recognition as well as the countless mentors and sponsors who have been sources of inspiration throughout my career,” she adds. “It’s my goal to pass this down to the next generation of healthcare leaders who have a passion and desire to care for their communities.”