Madeline S. Bell has joined the Board of Directors at UnitedHealth effective immediately. The former chief executive officer of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia brings extensive healthcare leadership experience to UnitedHealth.
Madeline completed a distinguished four-decade career at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia before taking her new role. She originally started her career as a pediatric staff nurse in 1983. Later, she spent eight years serving as chief operating officer from 2007 through 2015. She subsequently advanced to become president and chief executive officer in 2015. Furthermore, she officially retired from her executive leadership role at the hospital last month.
Regarding her education, Madeline earned a Master of Science degree in organizational dynamics from the University of Pennsylvania. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Villanova University.
“Madeline has devoted her entire career to improving healthcare for children, beginning as a pediatric nurse and ultimately leading one of the nation’s premier children’s hospitals,” said Stephen J. Hemsley, UnitedHealth Group’s CEO and executive board chairman. “Her decades of experience caring for patients, leading clinicians and growing one of the country’s foremost pediatric health systems will bring an important perspective to our Board. We look forward to her leadership as we continue working to improve care and help make the health system work better for everyone.”
Her broad clinical background aligns seamlessly with the ongoing strategic growth objectives at UnitedHealth. Executives at UnitedHealth value her long history of clinical governance and organizational management.
Expanding Corporate Governance and Healthcare Leadership Expertise
Beyond her hospital executive duties, Madeline maintains an impressive history of corporate and civic leadership. For instance, she currently serves as a board director for Comcast. Previously, she chaired the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia’s Board of Directors. Moreover, she holds honors as a fellow of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia. She also serves as the Honorary Consul of Spain.
Additionally, Madeline served on the board of the Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics. She actively supported the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee. Furthermore, she chaired Philadelphia’s CEO Council for Growth during her tenure.
“I am honored to join UnitedHealth Group’s Board of Directors,” Madeline said. “Having cared for children as a nurse and led a children’s hospital, I know how much it matters when care is coordinated, accessible and affordable. I look forward to contributing that experience to the UnitedHealth Group Board.”
Consequently, UnitedHealth gains an experienced executive with proven capabilities in large-scale health operations. Leaders across UnitedHealth anticipate that her insights will support accessible, coordinated care delivery across the country.
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