Empath Hospice Physicians Summit
August 14-15, 2025
Reimagining Physician Leadership Through Full Life Care for All
Join us for the inaugural Empath Hospice Physicians Summit—a focused gathering created specifically for the physicians at the heart of our hospice mission. This exclusive event offers a forum to engage directly with Empath Health’s strategic vision and explore the innovations shaping the future of hospice medicine.It’s a rare opportunity to connect with colleagues and executive leaders, gain insight into emerging clinical and operational priorities, and help guide the path forward for compassionate, high-quality care across our system.
Summit Agenda
This carefully curated agenda is designed to foster connection, spark ideas, and center our shared purpose. From thought-provoking presentations to candid conversations, each session is built around the future of hospice medicine and the role of physician leadership in advancing Full Life Care.
Come ready to listen, reflect, and lead.
Thursday
August 14th, 2025
An Evening to Inspire
Please plan to arrive in Ocala by 5PM
We'll open the summit with an unforgettable evening at Live Oak, one of Ocala's most storied and scenic estates. Amid the beauty of horse country, join fellow physicians for meaningful conversation, fine dining, and a sense of renewed purpose.
Enjoy opening remarks from Empath Health President + CEO Jonathan Fleece and Chester Weber, international equestrian and Vice Chair of the Hospice of Marion County Foundation, as they welcome us into a weekend of reflection, leadership, and vision for the future of hospice care.
This is more than dinner—it's the start of something powerful.
Friday
August 15th, 2025
A Day to Reflect, Connect, and Lead
Please plan to depart Ocala by 3PM
Friday brings us together at the Hilton Ocala for a full day of insight, dialogue, and collaboration. With a lineup of dynamic speakers and thought leaders, we'll dive into the future of hospice medicine—examining innovation, leadership, and the role of Full Life Care in shaping what's next.
Peter Benjamin, nationally respected hospice strategist, will explore the intersection of medicine and business in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape. Luke Rutledge, President of Homecare Homebase, will share how artificial intelligence is transforming clinical decision-making and care delivery across the continuum.
Expect bold ideas, honest conversation, and the chance to help shape the future—not just for Empath, but for the field we're leading together.
Our Hosts + Speakers
Peter Benjamin
Partner, Huntington Consulting Group
Luke Rutledge
President, Homecare Homebase
Chester Weber
Vice Chair, Hospice of Marion County Foundation Board
Jonathan Fleece
President + CEO, Empath Health
Dr. Kate Brazzale
Chief Medical + Administrative Officer, Hospice Division
Deborah Johnson
Chief Philanthropy Officer, Empath Health
Hilton Ocala
Your room has been prepaid by Empath. Please click “Book Your Room” to finalize your reservation and add a card for incidentals.
Location
This year's summit unfolds in the heart of Ocala—where the natural beauty of horse country meets the warmth of Southern hospitality.
We'll begin Thursday evening at Live Oak, one of Florida's most iconic estates, known for its world-class equestrian heritage and sweeping pastoral views. It's the perfect setting to reconnect and reflect on the meaning behind our work.
On Friday, we'll gather at the Hilton Ocala, a modern, comfortable space designed to support focused conversation, collaborative learning, and bold thinking.
All accommodations, dining, and summit experiences have been thoughtfully arranged by Empath as a gesture of appreciation for your leadership and commitment. From elegant dinner to inspired dialogue, every detail has been selected to honor your role and make space for what matters most.
Hilton Ocala
3600 Southwest 36th Ave.
Ocala, FL 34474