Young Pro Q&A : Jonathan Ortega - Advocate Aurora Health

In this Q&A, a healthcare administrator shares insights into their career journey, daily responsibilities, and the rewards that come from supporting patient care through strategic practice acquisitions. With a strong foundation in healthcare and business, they offer a unique perspective on balancing operational efficiency with the needs of patients and providers alike. Their reflections reveal the growth, challenges, and fulfillment found in this impactful field, along with advice for those aspiring to make a difference in healthcare administration.

 

Young Professional: Jonathan Ortega

Company: Advocate Aurora Health

Location: Downers Grove, IL

Q1: What inspired you to choose your current career?

 

I’ve always been motivated by the idea of helping others, which initially led me to pursue a career in Physical Therapy. However, my path took a different direction when I met a hospital administrator during college. That conversation opened my eyes to the impact healthcare administration can have beyond direct patient care. I realized I could combine my passion for healthcare with my interest in business, which led me to pursue a Master’s in Healthcare Administration. Since then, I’ve worked in various roles at hospitals and medical groups across the Midwest. For the past three and a half years, I’ve focused on Physician Practice Acquisitions, where I help evaluate, negotiate, and integrate medical practices into larger healthcare systems.This process involves assessing the financial viability of acquisitions, negotiating contracts, and ensuring that each new practice aligns with our system’s goals for patient care and operational efficiency. It’s been an incredible journey, and I love being able to contribute to a larger healthcare system while supporting both the business and clinical sides of care.

 

Q2: What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day work?

 

The beauty of my role is that no two practice acquisitions are ever the same. Each one presents unique challenges and opportunities, so I’m constantly engaging with new people and scenarios. I’m always learning, especially when it comes to developing strategies that align with both business growth and patient care. The diversity of experiences keeps things fresh and exciting—much like the wide range of flavors Young Professional’s coffee offers. 

 

Q3: How does your career contribute to your personal growth?

 

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is time management, not just at work but in my personal life as well. In healthcare administration, you need to juggle many competing priorities and deadlines, and that requires a high level of organization. This need for efficiency has carried over into my personal life, helping me make better use of my time and stay grounded. Working in this field has also broadened my understanding of the healthcare industry, fostering my growth as both a leader and a lifelong learner.

 

Q4: What do you find most rewarding about your career?

 

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the results of a successful acquisition, where a practice is integrated into our system and begins serving patients. Knowing that our work directly impacts patient care—whether that’s through improved access to services, streamlined operations, or enhanced quality of care—makes it all worthwhile. I also take pride in working for one of the largest health systems in the country. It’s a privilege to contribute to something so much bigger than myself.

 

Q5: How do you maintain work-life balance in your career?

 

Maintaining work-life balance requires strategic time management and prioritization. I focus on identifying the most critical tasks each day and allocating my time in a way that allows me to meet key objectives while also ensuring I have time for my personal well-being. Creating boundaries between work and personal life is essential, as is having a routine that includes time for health, fitness, and downtime. By being deliberate about where I invest my energy, I’m able to stay productive without compromising on the things that matter most outside of work.

 

Q6: What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your field?

 

Always remind yourself that your work has a direct impact on patient care. Even if you’re not in a clinical setting, the work you do in healthcare administration affects the frontline providers and, ultimately, the patients they serve. Stay focused on that bigger picture, and don’t be afraid to continually learn and grow in your role.