Hartford Business Journal's 2025 Healthcare Heroes [link]
"Connecticut’s healthcare system is in the midst of profound change.
Hospitals and providers are navigating rising labor costs, staffing shortages, the adoption of AI and shifts in how care is delivered, from telehealth to behavioral health expansion. At the same time, they continue to serve as critical anchors for their communities and the state’s economy.
Through it all, frontline workers and caregivers continue to adapt, keeping patient care at the center of their work. To recognize those efforts, the Hartford Business Journal is proud to present its annual Healthcare Heroes awards.
This year’s honorees span the breadth of the industry, from physicians, nurses and volunteers to leaders in mental health, research and community-based care."
Winner Category Health Care Staff
Melanie Hills, LMSW
Behavioral Health Consultant
Wheeler Health
Melanie Hills graduated from Fordham University, completing a practicum with East Hartford Youth Services and international work in London. She interned at Wheeler and now serves as the behavioral health consultant at the Bristol Family Health & Wellness Center.
In this role, she integrates behavioral health into medical settings, including supporting individuals with substance use disorders. She is dedicated to equitable health care, patient-centered engagement and advancement of harm reduction strategies to improve access and outcomes for diverse populations.
What have been your significant contributions to your organization in the past year?
I helped provide compassionate, evidence-based behavioral health support within Wheeler’s integrated primary care setting in the role of a behavioral health consultant.
We help patients navigate the complex connections between mental, physical and substance use challenges, empowering them with practical tools to improve their health outcomes.
With my colleagues, I have enhanced coordination, supported early intervention and reduced barriers for our patients. That work has not only improved individual patient outcomes, but also strengthens Wheeler’s model of whole-person care.
Tell us about a challenge in your job that you were able to overcome.
We are in a time of fear and uncertainty for many patients. Concerns about access to care have increased, especially within marginalized communities. As a team, we work to address misinformation, advocate for patients and ensure continued access to care.
It has strengthened my commitment to equity and patient-centered care. It is an honor to work with my Wheeler peers at community organizations for unhoused individuals.
What’s your next major goal and/or challenge?
I’m pursuing my clinical social worker license and plan to continue working in integrated primary care. My next step is to earn a perinatal mental health certification, allowing me to specialize in supporting individuals and families through the pre- and postnatal periods.
My goal is to advance my career in integrated health care by providing comprehensive, compassionate care during this critical life stage, bridging medical and behavioral health to improve outcomes for both parents and children.
How are you involved in the community?
I’ve attended community events where Wheeler Health and our mobile medical unit (shoutout to 'Winnie the Wheelerbago') were featured, connecting with the communities we serve and promoting engagement in our comprehensive services.
Fun Fact
In the summer, I work as a swim instructor, teaching all ages.