As mental health needs continue to rise across Northwest Florida, strong community partnerships play a critical role in expanding access to care.
For Hong Potomski, recently named Northwest Market President for Florida Blue, the organization’s partnership with Lakeview Center reflects a shared commitment to improving health and well‑being across the region.
What continues to resonate most, Hong said, is the strong alignment between Florida Blue’s mission and Lakeview Center’s impact in the community. “As a healthcare company, mental health is an incredibly important area of focus for us, and the services Lakeview Center provides are essential.”
Beyond clinical care, Hong emphasized the importance of addressing the broader factors that influence mental well‑being.
“It starts with more than just access to care,” she said. “It’s also about social determinants of health and programs that support the factors that can lead to mental health challenges.”
One area that stands out personally is Lakeview Center’s workforce and disability employment programs, including Project SEARCH and other initiatives through sister company Global Connections to Employment (GCE).
“Supporting individuals with disabilities and helping them find jobs is pretty heartwarming,” Hong said. “Being able to work, contribute and feel like a productive member of the community has a real impact on mental well‑being.”
Hong also pointed to trust and credibility as key reasons Florida Blue continues its support. “The relationship, the credibility and the trust in the leadership team—and the organization as a whole—speak volumes,” she said. “When we’re investing resources, that matters.”
Looking ahead, Hong sees continued opportunity for collaboration as mental health needs grow. “We all play a role in creating a culture of healthy living,” she said. “Business and community leaders have skin in the game, and working together is how we continue to make meaningful progress.”
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