JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
The American Hospital Association presented U.S. Air Force Col. Jennifer Brooks, 633rd Medical Operations Squadron family health flight commander, with the Federal Health Care Executive Award for Excellence Apr. 9, 2020.
The AHA sponsors two awards in recognition of federal health care executives who have had a significant and lasting impact on military and/or public health care delivery.
“Col. Brooks, besides being a gifted physician with an unwavering commitment to patient care, has a keen eye for identifying inefficient processes and crafting innovative but practical solutions to challenges,” said Col. Amy Parker, 633rd MDOS commander. “She is persistent and collaborative in seeking answers and embodies servant leadership, tirelessly advocating for and mentoring to those in her flight.”
These awards recognize military and non-military federal health care leaders who have distinguished themselves through singularly significant or innovative achievements and leadership that have contributed substantially to the mission of the federal health system.
Nominations are issued in November to the Surgeons General of the Armed Forces, the Undersecretary for Health at the Veterans Administration and the Director of the Public Health Service. Nominations are accepted for each award from each branch of the service.
“I would like to thank my squadron commander, Col. Amy Parker, and my group commander, Col. Craig Keyes, who deemed me deserving of this award and took the time to submit me as a nominee,” Brooks said. “Both of these commanders take time to get to know their people and always make it a point to recognize individuals for their accomplishments. And, a special thanks to our entire team who make each day here a success.”
Though extremely honored and surprised, Brooks did not perceive of anything she did as a physician leader as extraordinary. She said that none of her accomplishments have happened in a vacuum and believes the award is a reflection on the hospital as a whole.
“I try to make sure my patients and my team members are my highest priority every day,” Brooks said. “I realize no leader is an expert in all things, so I try to cultivate a good working relationship with all team members.”
Brooks says the most innovative efforts with which she has been involved have started with ideas from front line staff. I listen and work to put those good ideas into action.
“I am incredibly proud of Col Brooks and am excited that her hard work and commitment are highlighted by this award,” Parker said. “When someone like Col Brooks is selected for such a prestigious accolade, it is inspirational and hopefully helps to reinforce a positive example for others to emulate. The delivery of healthcare is a team sport, so Col Brooks’ award is really a huge pat on the back for all of us.”