September 20, 2024
The Montana Hospital Association (MHA) announced the winners of its top honors for 2024. Dr. George R. “Russ” Bell of St. Peter’s Health was named Trustee of the Year. MHA established the Healthcare Trustee of the Year Award to honor individuals who have demonstrated noteworthy contributions to their institution and/or the Montana healthcare community.
As the Board Chair at St. Peter’s, Russ leads with a servant’s heart and a strategic mind. In the six years he has served on our Board, St. Peter’s has been awarded the Montana Hospital Association’s Leadership in Quality and Safety Award in 2022; became the first in Montana to receive ISO-9001 certifications; named a Chartis Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital in 2020, 2021 and 2024; as well as received numerous other recognitions for quality of care.
Russ was a visionary behind St. Peter’s Housing is Healthcare initiative. Also known as FUSE (Frequent User System Engagement), this grant-funded program helps St. Peter’s work collaboratively with organizations across the community to keep frequent and high-need patients out of the Emergency Room and on track with healthcare treatment. FUSE also connects patients to appropriate services to help them maintain or obtain housing.
In times of adversity, Russ’ determination shines brightest. From the COVID-19 pandemic to the recent financial crisis plaguing many organizations, Russ stands at the helm of our Board and faces every challenge with grace that is guided by wisdom and fortitude.
Beyond St. Peter’s, Russ is actively involved in several community organizations, including the Biomedical Sciences Advisory and Institutional Research Boards at Carroll College and St. Peter’s Hospital Association. He regularly volunteers as a tutor at Smith Elementary School. He also serves on the National Advisory Council of the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis. Before moving to Helena with his wife, Sharon, Russ had a celebrated 30+ year career in the biomedical and education sectors. His research spearheaded the development of many diagnostic products for cancer and men’s health, including leading the research efforts that resulted in the approval of the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test as the first blood test for early cancer detection, influencing the health and wellness of millions of people. While he had a wildly accomplished career, Russ is a true family man and will tell you that they are his greatest accomplishment. He is a proud husband, father and grandfather. Russ’ unwavering resilience, profound wisdom, and compassionate leadership distinguishes him as a revered figure at St. Peter’s and beyond.
One will also often find Russ cheerfully engaging with employees and patients, volunteering in Cancer Care, or putting his crafting skills to work during the St. Peter’s Health Foundation annual Sock Sew. Russ has an unmatched ability to make anyone he meets walk away feeling like a friend. With his quick wit and distinctive Southern charm, Russ is well-known and regarded as a friend to many in the Helena community.
“I want to offer congratulations to Russ on this well-deserved recognition. He joins a long list of wonderful Trustee award recipients who have gone above and beyond to improve healthcare across their communities,” said Bob Olsen, Montana Hospital Association President and CEO. “The Montana Hospital Association and its members are truly grateful for the dedication and hard work of Russ and all trustees around the state who commit their time, talents, and resources to make such an important impact.”
