Washington State Hospital Association honors Cascade Medical CEO

SEATTLE — Cascade Medical CEO Diane Blake received the 2026 Joe Hopkins Award from the Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) for expanding access to rural health care and championing rural hospitals.

The award honors the leadership and dedication of the late Joe Hopkins, a pioneer in rural health care advocacy.

“Diane Blake’s commitment to advocacy, collaboration and community health embodies the spirit of the Joe Hopkins Award,” said WSHA CEO Cassie Sauer. “Her leadership has strengthened rural health care across Washington and helped ensure patients in rural communities have access to the care they need.”

WSHA recognized Blake’s leadership in removing geographical barriers to healthcare in the local community, while also advocating for policies supporting rural hospitals in Olympia and Washington, D.C.

The association commended Cascade Medical’s efforts to shorten the distance between healthcare and residents spread across more than 1,200 square miles, including using the mobile health van to reach underserved communities and Mobile Integrated Health program connecting patients with services and follow-up care.

WSHA applauded Blake’s state and national advocacy for policies that address challenges for all rural hospitals and the people they serve. As a former WSHA Board Chair, Blake led key finance, policy and planning committees. She currently represents WSHA on the American Hospital Association’s Regional Policy Board.

“Diane is a tireless advocate for rural health care whose influence extends far beyond our organization,” said Cascade Medical Board Chair Shari Day-Campbell. “Her work improved health care access in our community and continues to shape the future of rural health across Washington state.”

Blake also serves on the boards of the Rural Collaborative, RHE and the Community Foundation of North Central Washington.