Nicklaus Children’s Health System announced a new regional operating structure to better meet the growing healthcare needs of South Florida children. The restructuring aims to enhance access to complex pediatric care close to home for families across the region.
Under the new model, the health system is divided into three markets. The South Market includes the Miami campus near Coral Gables and outpatient facilities throughout Miami-Dade County. The North Market covers inpatient services at Broward Health and Nicklaus Children’s outpatient centers in Broward County. The Developing Markets span Collier and Palm Beach counties, extending care across South Florida.
As part of this shift, Yair Katz, MHA, has joined as president of the Broward market, while Ariana Urquia, MBA, FACHE, has been promoted to president of the Miami-Dade market. Both leaders report to Marcos Mestre, MD, MBA, senior vice president and chief clinical officer, and will oversee regional operations and strategy to improve access and quality of care.
“This regional model strengthens our ability to deliver the right care at the right time and place,” said Dr. Mestre. “By empowering local leadership and aligning clinical resources, we can better anticipate community needs, expand services thoughtfully, and continue advancing the exceptional pediatric care South Florida families rely on.”
Katz brings over 20 years of healthcare leadership experience, most recently serving as CEO of Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital in Long Beach, California. Urquia, a longtime leader at Nicklaus Children’s, previously served as vice president and chief financial officer of the hospital. She will lead initiatives to expand subspecialty care, innovation, and community engagement in Miami-Dade.
Saima Aftab, MD, MBA, FACHE, FAAP, who has served as chief strategy officer for eight years, will continue in her role while also overseeing services in emerging markets including Palm Beach and Collier counties. Reporting to CEO Matthew A. Love, she will lead network partnerships and strategic growth across South Florida.
“Our regional structure allows us to be more responsive to the evolving needs of our communities,” said Love. “This model ensures our mission to inspire hope and promote lifelong health is supported by local insights, strong partnerships, and the highest standards of pediatric care.”
The new regional structure reflects Nicklaus Children’s commitment to bringing world-class pediatric care closer to home for families across South Florida.
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