Patient Access Collaborative Recognizes Access Leaders of the Year

Atlanta, GA and Cleveland, OH – The Patient Access Collaborative proudly recognized the recipients of its prestigious Access Leader of the Year at its 14th annual symposium in Columbus, Ohio (May 11-14).

The Access Leader of the Year Award honors leaders in patient access who demonstrate innovation, measurable impact, and strategic vision. Recipients are recognized for implementing creative solutions, achieving significant outcomes, and fostering collaboration within their health systems and the broader community. This award celebrates Patient Access Collaborative members who drive change, inspire others, and advance equitable, patient-centered care.

The Patient Access Collaborative recognized Lisa Griffin, MBA, CCCM, Chief Consumer Officer at University Hospitals.

“Ms. Griffin’s career of more than three decades reflects sustained innovation, measurable impact, collaborative influence, and strategic foresight, all grounded in a deep commitment to improving the patient experience and advancing equitable care. Espouses her nominator: ‘She does not simply manage access operations; she transforms them.’”

“Our members are leading the way in transforming patient access,” said Elizabeth Woodcock, DrPH, MBA, FACMPE, CPC, Founder & Executive Director of the Patient Access Collaborative. “These awards highlight leaders in academic health systems and children’s hospitals who exemplify innovation, measurable impact, and strategic vision in patient access. We are proud to have them as members of our community — and grateful for their influence far beyond the walls of their health systems.”

In addition to Griffin, Vivian Zhao, MHS, Chief Patient Access Officer at Johns Hopkins Medicine was also recognized at the event.