Meet The Hill’s New Director of Healthcare Services
Melissa Sudduth, The Hill’s Director of Healthcare Services, at the construction site of The Health Center renovation
When Melissa Sudduth heard that The Hill at Whitemarsh was searching for a new Director of Healthcare Services, she knew it was a job she would love. In fact, she couldn’t stop thinking about the opportunity.
“The Hill has such an exceptional reputation,” said Melissa. “I’ve spent many years of my career working with other Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) in the area, and everyone I know–both residents and staff–have always had such great things to say about The Hill.”
Melissa knew she had to pursue the position; she applied for the job, interviewed, and started her new position as Director of Healthcare Services on February 8. It’s no wonder she got the job; she’s uniquely qualified for the position.
“I’ve been working as a nurse for over 20 years,” said Melissa. “I started in a hospital setting, but there’s such a quick turnaround in a hospital–you don’t really get the opportunity to build the same kinds of relationships with patients that you do when you work in senior care.”
In addition to being a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) who is Board Certified in Family Medicine (FNP-BC) and a licensed Nursing Home Administrator, she also holds a master’s degree in nursing from Villanova University. With her educational credentials and her hands-on work experience, it’s easy to see why Melissa was an ideal candidate for the position at The Hill.
“Collaborating with the incredible team and residents at The Hill has been an absolute joy,” said Melissa. “Their kindness, friendliness, and unique culture have created an unparalleled working environment unlike any other. It’s truly a place where great things happen.”
Rendering of future room at The Health Center
In her new role, Melissa oversees healthcare operations at The Hill, meaning she’s responsible for helping to make great things happen for residents on a daily basis. She is responsible for The Hill’s Five-Star-rated skilled nursing facility, assisted living unit, and primary care practice, which is a partnership with Jefferson Health System®. In addition to these roles, she also manages The Hill’s homecare company, Hill Home Services, and the future Memory Care Center, which is currently under construction.
The renovations are part of The Hill’s community-wide effort to always strive to improve and evolve its offerings for residents and non-residents alike. Renovations of the 60-bed Health Center will revitalize and enhance the existing facilities as well as expand the footprint of the building that houses The Hill’s healthcare administration team and state-of-the-art primary care practice. The renovation also includes the addition of a 14-bed Memory Care Center, which is an entirely new offering for those who may need it.
With Melissa having started her new role while construction is still underway, she’s very excited to have an opportunity to build something new for The Hill.
“We’re building a new initiative from the ground up, and it’s so nice to have a hand in that.”
– Melissa Sudduth
“When we open our Memory Care Center, it will have 14 rooms and top-of-the-line care. We’ve also been working on an initiative to expand our healthcare offerings through Hill Home Services, which is an additional service that’s available to all residents of The Hill, should they need it.”
“I became a nurse to help people, and I have a true passion to serve,” said Melissa. “The Hill is growing, flourishing, and expanding. It’s really an exciting time to be here.”