Marias Healthcare CEO Jamie Brownell recognized with prestigious award

Jamie Brownell, CEO of Marias Healthcare Services, Inc., was recognized for her being a “true pioneer” in expanding access to critical health services for Shelby’s most vulnerable patients. She received the Dr. Alan Strange Legacy Award at the Montana Healthcare Conference in Billings on Wednesday, Sept. 22.

The Dr. Alan Strange Legacy Award, given by the Montana Primary Care Association, recognizes a Montana community health leader who has improved access to care.

“Jamie is not only the CEO, but a full-time rancher. She knows her community. Jamie opens the clinic early, late and on weekends. She ensures that patients’ needs are met with personal phone calls and visits. Without her leadership, many in this community would not receive care,” said Cindy Stergar, MPCA CEO.

During her tenure as the CEO of Marias, Brownell has turned MHSI from a small primary care clinic into a multi-million dollar federally qualified healthcare center with more than 50 employees. Brownell has worked to expand Marias’ services from primary care to include dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, mental health and podiatry services.

“She has been a true pioneer in adding some of the essential services which has served as a model for other community health centers around Montana and the United States how to provide comprehensive care and maintain viability in an ever changing healthcare environment,” said Brian Lee, chairman of Marias Healthcare, Inc., “Her dedication to the success of MHSI is unrivaled and the results are evidence in the growth and success of the company over the last 20 years.”

This expansion of services led to Marias Healthcare Services, Inc. outgrowing their rented space. They are currently building a new facility to bring all of their services under one roof. Brownell has also partnered with local healthcare providers to include additional specialty care and other services at the new facility.

“I get to make a difference. I get to care for my friends, family, and neighbors - and I get to help my community have full access to healthcare,” said Brownell. “I never saw myself in healthcare, but the mentors I met along the way took me under their wing and said ‘Make a difference, put the patient first.’ I’ve done my best – I learned the word ‘no’ only creates barriers for our patients.”