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Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

Heather L. Melick, JD, MB, BSN, RN, CPHRM

Senior Associate Director of Risk Management
Senior Associate General Counsel
Portrait of Heather Melick

Heather Melick joined the Office of Legal Affairs in June 2017 and serves as a Senior Associate General Counsel and Senior Associate Director of Risk Management. She assists in leading strategic initiatives in risk management, advises on federal executive orders and agency actions affecting healthcare and higher education, and provides guidance on nursing issues, patient safety event management, reproductive and transgender health policy, and compliance. Heather also develops and reviews institutional policies and creates risk/legal education programs for OSUWMC faculty and staff. 

A former United States Air Force JAG officer and experienced litigator, Heather has represented clients in pharmaceutical defense, products liability, commercial litigation, and medical malpractice defense at both large and boutique law firms. She is also a registered nurse with ICU clinical experience, bringing a unique perspective to healthcare law and patient safety. 


Professional Affiliations:
American Health Law Association
American Society of Health Care Risk Management
Ohio Society of Health Care Risk Managers
Society of Ohio Health Care Attorneys

Education: 
J.D., Case Western Reserve University School of Law
M.B.A., The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business
B.S.N., Mount Carmel College of Nursing
B.A., Wittenberg University