Quick Takes: Julie Hill
Julie Hill, a seasoned leader who’s made her mark on multiple corporate boards and served as a pioneering female CEO, brings a unique lens to healthcare. In this conversation, she reflects on how being the only woman in the room early in her career gave her the freedom—and responsibility—to think differently. Instead of falling into the usual “old boys club” patterns, Julie was able to ask tough questions, challenge assumptions, and speak up for those often left out of the decision-making process.
Her perspective centered on the patient experience long before consumerism and patient advocacy became buzzwords. For Julie, if there’s any doubt about a claim or coverage, the “jump ball” should go to the patient. She believes this principle builds trust, improves outcomes, and supports the long-term sustainability of healthcare organizations. It’s about treating people as whole human beings, considering mental health, social factors, and even environmental influences on their well-being.
From her time on the Anthem (now Elevance) board, she remembers pushing the importance of social determinants of health and wellness. Back then, talking about green hospitals, mental health services, or personalized care might have seemed fringe. Now, it’s common sense. Julie’s ability to see the future—and her willingness to speak out—helped shape policies that many take for granted today.
When it comes to inclusive leadership, Julie believes it’s not enough to just count how many diverse team members you have. You need to understand their actual experiences, see if they’re thriving, and find out what barriers still exist. Good intentions matter, but so does asking tough questions and walking the walk.
As a member of Lyric’s Board of Directors, Julie is excited about leveraging AI for better outcomes and efficiency. She sees Lyric uniquely positioned to combine cutting-edge technology with real compassion. In her view, AI can be a force for good—if it’s done responsibly and without built-in biases.
In the end, Julie’s approach is about empathy, curiosity, and long-term thinking. She envisions a future where patient-first values, inclusive leadership, and responsible AI come together to transform healthcare for everyone.
Additional Videos