OMA Member Spotlight: Brenda Riojas' Commitment to Minority Health

In honor of National Minority Health Month in April, we shine a spotlight on OMA member Brenda Riojas, PA-C, a remarkable healthcare professional whose dedication and advocacy uplift minority communities both locally and nationally.

Early in her career, Ms. Riojas served as a dietitian with the Navajo Nation, showcasing her commitment to improving health outcomes for minority groups.  Her journey continued as she completed Oregon Health and Science University’s School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program, graduating in 2022.

Her service extends beyond borders, as a Lieutenant Commander with the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps for over 8 years. She has deployed during critical missions, including responses to COVID-19 and Hurricane Maria, demonstrating her dedication to public health.

At the Chemawa Indian Health Center, Ms.  Riojas’ impact is profound.  There she established the first ever Long-Term Training PA position, addressing critical staffing needs for a community clinic serving over 6,000 patients from 299 tribes.  The impact she has had at this same clinic is evident in her initiatives to streamline medication management processes, resulting in a significant reduction in errors and unnecessary correspondences, ultimately ensuring safer and more efficient care for patients. 

Ms. Riojas’ commitment to holistic care can be seen in her work with students at the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) Chemawa Indian Boarding School, where she established collaborative nutrition visits.  These visits led to remarkable outcomes, including significant weight loss and improved diabetes management among high-risk patients.

Brenda is actively involved in various activities outside of her clinical role.  She is a PA member of the Oregon Medical Association’s active Justice Equity Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) Committee, currently co-chairing a workgroup working on a health equity definition for the association.

Ms. Riojas has been the recipient of numerous awards, including 7 Public Health Safety (PHS) awards between 2020-2022.  She has been the recipient of the PHS Commendation Medal for her leadership in pioneering the first-ever Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Prescription program, resulting in a remarkable 28% decrease in BMI levels according to CDC growth charts. 

Beyond accolades, Brenda’s impact extends through her advocacy, leadership, and compassion, inspiring colleagues and communities alike.  Her dedication to improving minority populations’ health and well-being exemplifies healthcare excellence and social responsibility.