Florida’s Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) Secretary Jason Weida has been appointed as Chief of Staff for Governor Ron DeSantis, marking another leadership change at AHCA. Weida will succeed James Uthmeier, who is leaving the role to become Florida’s Attorney General.

Weida, an attorney, has led AHCA for the past two years after previously serving as the agency’s Chief of Staff. He was appointed as AHCA Secretary in 2023, overseeing the state’s Medicaid program, health care facility regulation, and other key health policy initiatives. Under his leadership, the agency has navigated post-pandemic Medicaid redeterminations, managed care reprocurement, and various regulatory reforms affecting Florida’s health care providers.

In a memo addressed to “Team DeSantis,” Uthmeier announced Weida’s selection, though an official transition date was not specified. “We have the best team in the country, and I know your successes will only continue under the Governor and Jason,” the memo stated.

Weida’s departure makes him the fourth secretary to leave the role since 2020, following Mary Mayhew, Acting Secretary Shevaun Harris, and Simone Marstiller — each of whom played a role in shaping the state’s health care landscape.

HCAF commends Secretary Weida for his leadership and collaboration with the home health provider community. We look forward to working with his successor to ensure continuity and advance progress in the industry.