Howell, Buchan & Strong Welcomes Paralegal, Shaila Washington to the Team

At Howell, Buchan & Strong, we understand that navigating healthcare licensing, compliance, and regulatory matters requires more than legal knowledge alone. It requires insight into how the system truly works behind the scenes.

That’s why we are excited to welcome Shaila Washington as a paralegal to our growing team.

Florida Department of Health Experience

Shaila joins HBS with extensive experience at the Florida Department of Health, where she served as a Medical Compliance Officer, working closely with nursing and medical professionals throughout the compliance and disciplinary processes. In her role, she monitored hundreds of active compliance cases while helping licensed professionals understand and satisfy the requirements outlined in Final Orders issued by Florida licensing boards.

Shaila’s regulatory experience extends beyond compliance oversight. As a supervisor supporting the Florida Board of Medicine, she prepared agenda materials for board meetings, traveled to meetings across the state, and worked directly with board members. This unique experience gave her valuable insight into the decision-making processes that shape healthcare licensure, discipline, and regulation in Florida.

Her experience provides a unique perspective that strengthens the support HBS offers healthcare professionals across the state.

“I enjoy helping people get to the finish line,” said Shaila. “A big part of my work has always been listening to people, helping them understand the process, and helping them avoid unnecessary delays or complications.”

During her time with the Department of Health, Shaila worked directly with attorneys, board offices, and probation committees while overseeing compliance tracking, continuing education requirements, reporting deadlines, and other obligations tied to disciplinary actions. She understands firsthand how licensing boards monitor compliance and where professionals commonly encounter challenges after a Final Order is entered.

Using DOH Compliance Experience with Legal Clients

That insider knowledge now helps HBS clients proactively navigate issues before they become larger obstacles.

“One of the biggest things is communication and anticipating where there could be gaps in an application or compliance process,” Shaila explained. “You want clients to succeed the first time through whenever possible.”

Her background is particularly valuable for healthcare professionals facing licensing concerns, disciplinary matters, exemptions, application issues, or ongoing compliance requirements with agencies such as the Florida Department of Health and AHCA.

For founding partner Jeffrey Howell, Shaila’s addition reflects the firm’s continued commitment to providing clients with practical guidance grounded in real regulatory experience.

“Shaila understands the compliance process from the inside out,” Howell said. “Her experience and compassion for helping people make her an incredible asset to our clients and our team.”

Originally from Havana, Florida, Shaila brings not only regulatory experience but also a people-first mindset that aligns closely with the culture at HBS. She says what stood out most to her about joining the firm was the genuine care the team has for clients and helping professionals move forward during stressful situations.

Outside of work, Shaila enjoys spending time with her family of four – which includes their newly adopted Aussiedoodle, Gabrielle. She also loves exploring Northern Florida’s food scene, taking outdoor walks, and thrifting for unique furniture and jewelry finds.