Dr. Eric Fish Honored for Statewide Advocacy with IHA’s Inaugural Award

The Indiana Hospital Association (IHA) has named Dr. Eric Fish, President and CEO of Schneck Medical Center, as its inaugural Advocate of the Year, recognizing his outstanding leadership and commitment to legislative advocacy on behalf of Indiana hospitals and the patients they serve.

Scott B. Tittle, President of IHA, added, “It’s only fitting that the inaugural Advocate of the Year Award should go to Dr. Fish, who has served IHA in many capacities over the years and is highly respected by members of the Indiana General Assembly. We honor and thank him for his leadership to Schneck Medical Center and his tireless service advocating for Hoosier patients across the state.”

Dr. Fish expressed deep gratitude for the honor, stating, “I’m deeply grateful to the Indiana Hospital Association for entrusting me to represent IHA and its members at the state level. Advocacy is a responsibility I don’t take lightly, and it’s been a privilege to help advance the issues that matter most to our hospitals and communities.”

He also acknowledged the support of the Schneck Board of Trustees: “Your encouragement has allowed me to devote time to these important efforts, even amid the many obligations we all share in serving our patients and communities. This award is a reflection of what we can accomplish together—and I’m proud to be part of that work.”

“Congratulations to Dr. Fish on being named IHA’s inaugural Advocate of the Year,” said Jack McCory, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Schneck Medical Center. “His dedication to advocacy—despite the many demands of his role at Schneck and his deep commitment to the communities he serves—is truly inspiring. We thank him for using his voice to make a difference.”

Additional praise came from elected officials who have worked closely with Dr. Fish on healthcare policy:

“This honor couldn’t be more deserved. Dr. Fish has been a tireless advocate for quality of healthcare, community partnerships, and innovation that improves the lives of patients and families across southern Indiana,” said Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09). “He leads with compassion and a deep commitment to serving others. His leadership reflects the very best of Indiana’s healthcare community.”

“There is no fiercer advocate for Indiana hospitals than Dr. Eric Fish. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate how you approach advocacy,” said State Senator Chris Garten, Majority Floor Leader for District 45. “You’ve been patient with me, you’ve been kind with me, but more than anything, I appreciate your candor. In a building where political football is played often, you help me cut through the noise. And you’ve helped me come to understand the dynamics of what Indiana hospitals truly deal with day to day.”

The Advocate of the Year Award was created to recognize a hospital leader who demonstrates exceptional commitment to public policy and advocacy efforts that strengthen Indiana’s health care system.