Marty Cahill named Oregon’s 2026 AHA grassroots champion

Presented annually by the AHA, the Grassroots Champion Award is given to one hospital leader in each state who has shown outstanding dedication to advancing the needs of hospitals, patients and communities through engagement with elected officials and policymakers.

“I’m grateful for this recognition and for the many colleagues, healthcare leaders and advocates I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside,” Cahill said. “We share a commitment to helping people get the care they need close to home. Making sure policymakers understand the needs of our patients and communities, and what our hospitals need to continue serving them, is an important part of that work.”

Throughout his career, Cahill has worked with local, state and federal policymakers to help elevate issues affecting healthcare access, hospital sustainability and the health of Oregon communities. His advocacy efforts have focused not only on the needs of Samaritan Health Services, but also on strengthening healthcare delivery across the state.

Cahill received the award from Becky Hultberg, president and CEO of the Hospital Association of Oregon, during the association’s annual meeting.

“Marty has been a strong voice in advocacy, lobbying on behalf of the needs of Samaritan and hospitals across Oregon through his work with state elected officials and his leadership during visits to Washington D.C., to meet with Oregon’s congressional delegation,” Hultberg said. “Marty has also demonstrated his commitment through his strong support of the Oregon Hospital Political Action Committee, including serving as the organization’s former board chair where he helped advance the association’s advocacy goals.”

Cahill joins a distinguished group of Samaritan leaders who have previously received the AHA Grassroots Champion Award, including Doug Boysen (2019), Becky Pape (2013) and Larry Mullins (2007).