BUTTE, MT – The American Hospital Association (AHA), in partnership with the Montana Hospital Association recently awarded James Kiser, Chief Administrative Officer at St. James Healthcare with the Partnership for Action Grassroots Champion Award.  As a 2006 Grassroots Champion, James is being recognized for his exceptional leadership in generating grassroots and community activity in support of a hospital’s mission.

The Partnership for Action Grassroots Champion Award was created to recognize those hospital leaders who most effectively educate elected officials on how major issues affect the hospital’s vital role in the community, who have done an exemplary job in broadening the base of community support for the hospital, and is a tireless advocate for the hospital and its patients.

“Your leadership and dedication to promoting the mission of hospitals has added a strong voice on a local and national level,” said Dick Davidson, president, American Hospital Association. “The compassion and hard work you have demonstrated has made a difference for your patients and your community and has earned you this special recognition.”

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The award is presented annually to one individual from each state. Winners are chosen by the state association and recognized at a special Breakfast of Grassroots Champions at the AHA Annual Membership Meeting.  James was one of 50 individuals honored this year.

About the AHA
The AHA is a not-for-profit association of health care provider organizations and individuals that are committed to the health improvement of their communities. The AHA is the national advocate for its members, which includes 5,000 hospitals, health care systems, networks, other providers of care and 37,000 individual members. Founded in 1898, the AHA provides education for health care leaders and is a source of information on health care issues and trends. For more information, visit the AHA Web site at " target=_blank pathAttribute="1">www.aha.org.

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