The Health Care Council of Chicago’s (HC3) core purpose is to harness the collective intelligence and resources of Chicago’s health leaders and stakeholders to drive meaningful change and positively influence the conditions that impact the health of the city’s communities. In March 2023, HC3 is proud to launch a podcast series exploring how we leverage our resources to catalyze sustainable, durable health care solutions that help achieve health equity in Chicago and beyond.
Led by David Smith, co-founder of HC3, Founder and CEO of Third Horizon Strategies (THS), and host of the Cost of Care Podcast, alongside Meghan Phillipp, Executive Director of HC3 and VP of Community Impact at THS, the HC3 Podcast will feature business leaders, health care providers, community members, and political advocates that are breaking down barriers, challenging the status quo and thinking differently to advance sustainable solutions and opportunities that build and support healthier communities.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Health Care Council of Chicago’s (HC3) core purpose is to harness the collective intelligence and resources of Chicago’s health leaders and stakeholders to drive meaningful change and positively influence the conditions that impact the health of the city’s communities. In March 2023, HC3 is proud to launch a podcast series exploring how we leverage our resources to catalyze sustainable, durable health care solutions that help achieve health equity in Chicago and beyond.
Led by David Smith, co-founder of HC3, Founder and CEO of Third Horizon Strategies (THS), and host of the Cost of Care Podcast, alongside Meghan Phillipp, Executive Director of HC3 and VP of Community Impact at THS, the HC3 Podcast will feature business leaders, health care providers, community members, and political advocates that are breaking down barriers, challenging the status quo and thinking differently to advance sustainable solutions and opportunities that build and support healthier communities.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the HC3 podcast, we are proud to feature A.J. Wilhelmi, the President and CEO of the Illinois Health and Hospital Association (IHA). Since taking on this role in 2016, A.J. has been instrumental in representing hospitals and health systems across the state of Illinois. With a strong background in both government relations and law, he has supported and championed significant legislative achievements, including the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act.
In addition to discussing some of A.J.’s personal contributions to the health care landscape, we explore how IHA has tackled major challenges and achieved substantial progress in areas such as COVID-19 response, health equity, and improving health care quality and access statewide. A.J. also shares insights into the legislative impacts on hospitals and health systems and previews IHA's future advocacy efforts to continue enhancing health services and outcomes across Illinois.
A.J. Wilhelmi became the President and CEO of the Illinois Health and Hospital Association (IHA) on January 1, 2016. IHA, with offices in Chicago, Naperville, Springfield, and Washington D.C., represents over 200 hospitals and health systems, advocating for a sustainable, patient-focused healthcare system.
Previously, Wilhelmi served as IHA's Chief Government Relations Officer from 2012 to 2015, directing IHA's state and federal advocacy and policy agendas. During that time, IHA achieved major advocacy accomplishments, including landmark legislation on hospital tax exemption, Medicaid expansion, and securing ACA access payments.
Wilhelmi is enhancing IHA's ability to meet the needs of its members, collaborating with state leaders and stakeholders to support patients and the state's healthcare system.
Wilhelmi graduated cum laude from Loyola University Chicago in 1990 with a BA in English, and from Chicago-Kent College of Law in 1993. He practiced law with the McKeown Law Firm, specializing in real estate and business law, before joining Murer Consultants, Inc. as a senior consultant and later Vice President.
In January 2005, Wilhelmi was appointed to the Illinois Senate, representing the 43rd Senate District. He was re-elected in 2006 and 2010. He served as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and vice chairman of the Senate Agriculture & Conservation Committee, among other roles.
Wilhelmi has been involved in community service in Will County, co-sponsoring the 13th Will County Habitat for Humanity home and serving in various roles for the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce and other organizations.
Born and raised in Joliet, IL, Wilhelmi resides there with his wife, Michelle, and their three daughters.
Follow HC3 on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/hc3
This episode of the HC3 podcast is brought to you by Third Horizon Strategies. HC3 is administratively and strategically managed as an initiative of Third Horizon Strategies. Third Horizon is a Chicago-based but nationally present boutique advisory firm focused on shaping the future state of health care. www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com
Follow Third Horizon Strategies on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies
For more information about live events, webinars, and other updates on the work of HC3, visit www.HC3.Health.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.