Dr. Kristen Hollist
BHC 40 Under 40 | Class of 2026 | From the Ground Up
Chief Operating Officer | Optimal Health | Miami, FL
Dr. Kristen Hollist is a healthcare operator building integrated systems of care for underserved communities.
Through Optimal Health, she leads initiatives that span primary care, mental health, infectious disease prevention, and pharmacy services, with a focus on accessibility and continuity of care.
The Journey
Her path into healthcare was shaped by both exposure and loss.
"That loss gave me a sense of purpose at a young age."
The passing of her grandfather reframed her understanding of healthcare and solidified her commitment to prevention and access.
What This Recognition Means
For Dr. Hollist, the recognition reflects the impact of building with intention.
It affirms her work in expanding access and addressing disparities while reinforcing the responsibility to continue growing systems that serve communities more effectively.
What’s Next
She is focused on expanding Optimal Health and strengthening how services connect across the care continuum.
Her goal is to create a more seamless patient experience while integrating technology to improve outcomes.
"Stay rooted in purpose, not just position."
Dr. Hollist’s work reflects a systems-level approach to care, one that prioritizes connection, access, and long-term impact.
Connect
The BHC 40 Under 40 Class of 2026 honors the next generation of healthcare leaders reshaping how care is built, delivered, and experienced. Honorees will be celebrated at the Black Health Ball on June 27, 2026.