During the start of a successful growth spurt in 2016 and onwards, Hemali Joshi joined CAN Community Health (CAN) as a Pharmacy Compliance Manager to help oversee the compliance of the 340B Program.

"With a knack for data, analytics, and technology, I had a vision to help non-profit organizations revolutionize healthcare in the community," said Joshi. "The potential of data to change the healthcare industry is tremendous, from recognizing patient behaviors, socio-economic barriers, health outcomes, and driving strategic business decisions."

CAN is a healthcare non-profit organization that aims to empower wellness through compassion, community, and equity. As a manager, Joshi spearheaded initiatives to accelerate 340B compliance auditing practices, assisting in revenue growth and expansion, and initiatives to launch a data team, quality care team, and a robust auditing/compliance team at CAN. She soon found herself leading the organization's data analytics team, 340B compliance team, and quality team, and later in 2022-2023, she also led the Insurance Assistance Program and IT teams.

With each success, Joshi moved from a manager to a director role, vice president, and, as of spring 2022, as a senior vice president and chief data officer. Her efforts have led to recognition as Tampa's chief information officer of the year in 2023, and a TBBJ 40 under 40 honoree in 2023. She has also been recognized for two years in a row as one of Tampa's top 25 healthcare technology leaders.

"Within the organization, I've led initiatives such as implementing analytics solutions to assist with daily auditing leading to the identification of additional revenue opportunities, resulting anywhere between 5% to 10% growth in revenue year-over-year," said Joshi. "Through the implementation of population health management initiatives and review of patient health outcomes, we have reported improved health outcomes year-over-year, leading to increased incentives and patient satisfaction."

According to Joshi, successful leaders today must embody attributes such as visionary thinking, effective communication, adaptability, emotional intelligence, integrity, empowerment, strategic thinking, resilience, decisiveness, and innovation.

"Visionary thinking is crucial as it allows leaders to set a clear direction and inspire their teams and staff toward achieving long-term goals," said Joshi. "Adaptability is vital in the fast-paced and ever-changing business landscape, enabling leaders to pivot strategies and embrace innovation. Integrity is the bedrock of leadership, ensuring that decisions are made ethically and transparently, thus earning respect and loyalty from employees and partners."