By Lois Thomson, South Florida Hospital News, for ACHE of South Florida

They say to enjoy the journey, and that is exactly what Brian Altschuler has done and intends to keep doing. Those who know him may be surprised to learn that the word “hospital” has long been integral to both his vocabulary and his career path.

Before college, Altschuler was drawn to public service, initially considering a career in law enforcement. He began volunteering as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) with the Morganville First Aid & Rescue Squad in New Jersey, eventually becoming the squad’s captain. That experience led him to a position as a 911 operator. After a brief tenure with Marriott International, he pursued a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, studying abroad as part of the program, followed by a master’s degree in Leadership and board certification as a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE).

By 2001, these experiences converged to set the stage for his transition into healthcare. Following the events of September 11, the hospitality industry suffered a widespread shutdown. At the time, Altschuler was teaching CPR at a local hospital, where he was offered a position as Manager of Workforce Development within the Human Resources Department at Bethesda Memorial Hospital, today now part of the same system he works at Baptist Health South Florida.

Reflecting on his path, Altschuler encourages professionals to remain open to reinvention: “As we enter a new year, when opportunities arise to reinvent yourself, explore them openly and fully.

“It’s a unique year when we get to celebrate two things!” Altschuler said. As current President of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) of South Florida, he noted that his one-year presidency was extended through 2026 when President-Elect Ashley Abbondandolo accepted a new role as Associate Administrator at Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

“It gave me another year to continue supporting our members and watching others grow in their professional development,” Altschuler shared. “A lot of the administrative work I learned last year is now under my belt, allowing me to focus on how we can elevate what we’re already doing.”

Heading into his second term, Altschuler is prioritizing chapter growth and impact. He noted that ACHE of South Florida has been strengthening partnerships with other professional organizations. Looking ahead to 2026, he is interested in expanding the chapter’s community engagement through initiatives such as food drives, collaborations with local health and wellness clinics, and volunteer activities supporting underserved populations. “These are all ways our chapter can increase its impact and visibility in the community,” he said.

Altschuler has also asked the board to take an informed look at membership engagement. “Not every member joined ACHE for the same reason,” he explained. “Some want networking opportunities; others seek leadership development, education, or community initiatives. I want to ensure we meet those diverse expectations and strengthen the chapter as a multifaceted professional resource.”

In addition to his ACHE leadership, Altschuler serves as Vice President of Ancillary Operations at Boca Raton Regional Hospital. He is currently engaged in a $1 billion master facility project slated to open in summer 2026, an initiative that he says will “reimagine healthcare delivery in South Florida.” The project includes a new patient tower with 216 beds, an expanded campus, and advanced technologies designed to enhance clinical outcomes and patient experiences. “Between proton therapy, a cancer institute, a new ambulatory center, and additional physician office space – it will be dynamic,” he said.

Integrating his hospital role with his ACHE presidency, Altschuler recently reflected on his first year in a letter to members. He cited highlights such as meeting members across the region, collaborating with a talented board, expanding educational offerings, and launching new virtual programming. The chapter also improved accessibility by clustering networking events in convenient locations and strengthening statewide collaboration with sister chapters to deliver broader initiatives across Florida.

“I think it’s important to emphasize the uniqueness and talents of our members,” Altschuler said. “At many of our events, I see how we come together to strengthen one another as leaders, so we can return to our respective organizations and deliver the highest quality care to the communities we serve. That’s the best part about ACHE.”