Empath Health has tapped Jenna Paladino to serve as Vice President of Government Affairs, succeeding longtime government relations leader Scott Kistler, who is retiring after 28 years with the organization.
Paladino, a veteran health policy strategist and lobbyist, brings more than 20 years of experience in legislative advocacy and stakeholder engagement. Her background includes work in hospice, home health, pharmacy, and value-based care. Before joining Empath, she led her own consulting firm, Paladino Advocates, where she advanced legislation expanding telehealth reimbursement and preserving hospice regulations.
“Jenna’s deep experience in health care policy and her ability to build strong, results-driven relationships make her a tremendous addition to our leadership team,” said Jonathan Fleece, president and CEO of Empath Health. “Her expertise will be instrumental as we continue to advocate for patients, caregivers, and providers throughout Florida and beyond.”
Paladino previously directed public affairs and legislative strategy at Chapters Health System and held roles with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Florida House, and the University of South Florida.
“I am honored to join Empath Health, an organization whose mission and values reflect my own commitment to improving access to high-quality health care,” said Paladino.
Based in Clearwater, Empath Health operates one of the largest nonprofit health networks in Florida, offering hospice, home health, palliative care, and elder care services through programs such as Suncoast Hospice, Tidewell Hospice, and Hospice of Marion County. The organization serves more than 80,000 people annually, and one in five hospice patients statewide.
