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Maria Cristalli
Maria Cristalli
President and CEO, Hillside
Years in current role: 7
What emerging trends or technologies do you think will have the biggest impact on health care in the next 12 months?
Technology can play a vital role in helping individuals transition from intensive treatment settings to community-based services by fostering independence and continuity of care. Through partnerships between hospitals and community organizations, technology-enabled tools — like mobile apps for medication reminders and skills training — can empower people to manage daily activities. These tools not only bridge communication between clinical teams and community supports but also promote autonomy by offering real-time access to self-monitoring tools that reinforce a smoother transition to independence. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, its integration into community-based care will be pivotal in creating more responsive, patient-centered health systems.
What skills or qualities do you think are essential for the next generation of health care leaders?
The health care field is entering a period of significant disruption. Leaders must have the ability to adapt and lead through uncertainty. The new federal laws will have a deep and lasting impact on individuals in our community with the reductions in Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Effective health care leaders must also be strong advocates — able to influence public policy, engage stakeholders, and champion reforms that promote better health outcomes and equity.
How do you stay motivated and inspired in such a demanding and evolving field?
I stay motivated by working with my team, who work tirelessly to create innovative solutions to meet community needs. One current example is the new Critical Time Transition Program (CTTP) that Hillside will launch later this year, in partnership with the University of Rochester Medical Center. CTTP, which serves children who are boarding in hospitals, braids two funding streams to allow for the flexible provision of services that are individualized for children and families.
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This profile is part of our Power List for Health Care for 2025. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. View the full list at rbj.net. |
