Cascade Medical CEO Diane Blake has been named the recipient of the 2026 Joe Hopkins Award by the Washington State Hospital Association. The honor recognizes her extensive contributions to expanding rural healthcare access and championing rural hospitals across the state.
The accolade specifically acknowledges Blake’s leadership in dismantling geographical barriers to medical services within her local community while actively advocating for supportive rural hospital policies in Olympia and Washington, D.C.
“Diane Blake’s commitment to advocacy, collaboration and community health embodies the spirit of the Joe Hopkins Award,” said Washington State Hospital Association 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.”
Expanding Care Across 1,200 Square Miles
The Washington State Hospital Association commended Cascade Medical for its targeted initiatives designed to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and residents scattered across a vast service area spanning more than 1,200 square miles. Among the highlighted programs are a mobile health van reaching underserved populations and a Mobile Integrated Health program that connects patients directly with necessary services and ongoing follow-up care.
Association leadership noted that Blake’s influence extends well beyond her immediate administrative duties at Cascade Medical. As a former board chair for the Washington State Hospital Association, she previously led critical finance, policy, and planning committees. She currently represents the association 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.”
Broader Regional Leadership
In addition to her work with state and national hospital associations, Blake contributes her expertise to several regional boards and philanthropic organizations. Her ongoing board service includes roles with the Rural Collaborative, RHE, and the Community Foundation of North Central Washington.
The Joe Hopkins Award itself pays tribute to the enduring legacy and dedication of the late Joe Hopkins, a recognized pioneer in rural healthcare advocacy whose career focused on protecting and advancing medical access for underserved populations.
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