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Fort Walton Beach Medical Center CEO set to retire

After serving more than 40 years in healthcare, Mitch Mongell, CEO at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, has announced his retirement effective later this year. He and the Fort Walton Beach […]

Mitch Mongell, CEO at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center

After serving more than 40 years in healthcare, Mitch Mongell, CEO at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, has announced his retirement effective later this year.

He and the Fort Walton Beach Medical Center team have been very successful at growing the hospital’s capacity to care for the Northwest Florida community.

“We are grateful for Mitch’s leadership and his 25 years of service to HCA Healthcare, and wish him the very best in his retirement,” said Richard Hammett, President, HCA Healthcare North Florida Division. “A national search is underway for his successor.”

Mitch joined the Fort Walton Beach Medical Center in 2013, and through his leadership has facilitated the hospital’s growth through new and expanded services and sites of care. Mitch’s main accomplishments while at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center:

  • Expansion of the impatient rehabilitation facility in Destin
  • Two free standing ERs in Destin and Navarre
  • Full renovation of the main hospital ER
  • Construction of a new two-story patient tower, which will provide 42 new beds, a new supply warehouse, dietary kitchen and cafeteria, and a new four-floor parking garage to the facility.

He has also led his team through times of crisis, from managing the impacts of the pandemic to serving in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael. He was named the Destin Chamber’s 2019 Business Person of the Year and the following year, Fort Walton Beach Medical Center was named the 2020 Corporate Business of the Year.

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Vera Scavuzza commented on WordroW: August 14, 2026
“02:10 5 attempts”
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Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: August 14, 2026
“2:00, 5 attempts”
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“Why should golf carts get special spots? If they can park in regular car parking spots, just make them all the same.”
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“Thank you city council!!!! We don't need these!”
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