Brown University Health appoints new president for Morton Hospital in Taunton, Saint Anne’s Hospital in Fall River

Providence, RI – Brown University Health has appointed Julie Abilheira, RN, MS, as president of its Massachusetts hospitals, Morton Hospital in Taunton and Saint Anne’s Hospital in Fall River.

In her new role, Abilheira will lead strategic, clinical, and operational priorities for both hospitals, with a focus on advancing Brown Health’s integrated care model, enhancing service excellence, and expanding access to care.

Abilheira brings more than 25 years of healthcare leadership experience to the position. Most recently, she served as senior vice president of clinical services, overseeing medicine, cancer, radiation oncology, and dermatology services at Brown University Health.

“I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to serve as president of two vibrant and vital community hospitals,” said Abilheira. “I have been incredibly impressed by the talent, compassion, and dedication of the physicians and staff at both hospitals. Their commitment to the patients and families they serve is truly unmatched, and I look forward to supporting them as we continue to build on the strong foundations already in place throughout our communities.”

Working alongside Abilheira will be Heidi Taylor, who has expanded her leadership responsibilities and now serves as chief operations officer and chief financial officer for Brown University Health’s Massachusetts hospitals. Taylor, who previously served as president and vice president of finance at Morton Hospital, brings more than 30 years of healthcare leadership experience in finance and operations.

“Julie and Heidi are accomplished leaders whose complementary strengths will help advance our vision for Massachusetts,” said Sarah Frost, chief of hospital operations, Brown University Health. “Their leadership will help ensure stronger collaboration between our hospitals and an unwavering commitment to the communities we serve. We remain committed to investing in our Massachusetts hospitals and expanding access to high-quality, compassionate care that meets the needs of patients and families throughout the region.”