John Dawes Wins AHA Grassroots Champion Award

John Dawes, president and chief executive officer of Bothwell Regional Health Center, was recently awarded the American Hospital Association (AHA) Grassroots Champion Award for the state of Missouri.

The Champion Awards, which are given to one hospital leader from each of the 50 states and Puerto Rico, were presented during the 2014 AHA Annual Membership Meeting in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, May 6. The awards recognize hospital leaders who serve as highly effective advocates for their hospitals and patients.

“We depend upon strong voices like these to help tell the story of hospitals as cornerstones of the communities they serve,” said Rich Umbdenstock, AHA president and CEO. “This award is a small token of our appreciation for their hard work and dedication to improving health and health care in America.”

Dawes was recognized as one of two “Most Valuable PAC Players” from Missouri for his fund-raising efforts for the AHA Political Action Committee and his tireless advocacy efforts on behalf of the hospital and its patients.

“The health-care industry has always been one of rapid change,” Dawes said. “However, the depth and breadth of the changes we’re seeing now are outpacing any of the challenges I’ve seen before in my 30-plus years in health care. It is incredibly important that we continue to ensure elected representatives know what challenges hospitals face and the impact lawmakers’ decisions have on the health services available in their communities.”

Dawes has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Bothwell Regional Health Center since January 2002. During his tenure, the hospital has expanded services and opened several new facilities, including Bothwell Healing Arts Center and The Canon Center for Cancer & Cardiovascular Care. Prior to joining Bothwell, he was President and CEO of Mercy Hospital Clermont, Batavia, OH.

Dawes has achieved the status of Fellow from the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and has served on the Missouri Regents Advisory Council of ACHE. He serves as the District 3 representative for the Missouri Hospital Association (MHA) Board of Directors. In the Sedalia community, he has held leadership positions with Sedalia/Pettis County United Way, Sedalia Area Chamber of Commerce and First United Methodist Church.

Press Release Courtesy of Bothwell Regional Health Center