Hong Potomski

Market Leader, Florida Blue

Hong Potomski, MBA, FACHE, has a passion for building healthy communities. As Florida Blue’s market leader for the Panhandle region, she leads, develops, and executes market strategies, establishing and nurturing key partnerships and striving to improve the health and well-being of the community served by the leading health insurer in the state.

Potomski has held leadership roles in strategy and operations with hospital and health insurance organizations with a goal to improve health literacy, equity, and access to quality care. She serves on the American College of Health Executives North Florida Chapter Board, University of West Florida Foundation Board, and College of Health Advisory Council, United Way of Emerald Coast and Health Equity Committee, and Achieve Healthy EscaRosa. She was recently recognized as a Healthcare Harmony award recipient from the Escambia and Santa Rosa County Medical Society, one of seven Rising Executives in Florida Trend, University of West Florida’s 2023 Alumni Community Spirit award, and Inweekly’s 2024 Power List.

What was a defining moment in your career?

I am proud to have led the effort to bring the first Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) program to the Panhandle. The program opened in the summer of 2017, and within a week, the clinical team saved a 17-year-old.

What motivates you?

My family. I am grateful every day that my parents took a risk to chase the American Dream, escaping their home country of Vietnam, living in a refugee camp in Hong Kong, and coming to the United States with literally nothing. Their tenacity and grit as entrepreneurs allowed my brother and me to have the resources needed for a great education and career.

What lessons have you learned that have improved your professional life?

Lead with integrity. Consistency is key. Surround yourself with good people. Be resilient. Practice gratitude and positivity. Celebrate the wins—big or small. Use your PTO. Eat the cake—all is good in moderation. Soak in the family time. Breathe.

What changes do you hope to see in your community over the coming years?

As we continue to promote the great quality of life in our region, I hope to see a continued focus on improving the health and well-being of our communities. This includes enhanced preventive care, increased access to affordable and quality health care, improved mental health support, addressing health disparities, more emphasis on holistic and integrative care, and better support for caregivers and families.

What advice do you wish you’d been given before entering your industry?

This journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Slow down and take it all in. Don’t let one moment or experience define you.

Videography by Boo Media.