Christine Kilpatrick graduated from medical school at the University of Melbourne and went on to pursue a career in neurology specializing in epilepsy. In the early 2000s, Kilpatrick moved from neurological practice into hospital administration and was appointed executive director of Medical Services at Melbourne Health and later executive director at Royal Melbourne Hospital. In addition to an undergraduate medical degree, Kilpatrick has a Doctor of Medicine and a Master of Business Administration, both from the University of Melbourne. She is a fellow of The Royal Australasian College of Physicians, The Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators and the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Kilpatrick has held several external appointments including chair of Victorian Quality Council in Healthcare and chair of the board at Methodist Ladies’ College. She was awarded a Centenary Medal in 2003 and was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women in 2014.