We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Carey Downey, a family physician in Butte, Montana has been selected for the 2025 Department of Family Medicine Clinical Excellence Award by the University of Washington School of Medicine (UWSOM). This prestigious honor recognizes extraordinary contributions to patient care, community health, and collaborative clinical practice. It’s one of the highest accolades a clinician can receive within the Department of Family Medicine.
Dr. Downey has long been a cornerstone of healthcare in Southwest Montana. At the Southwest Montana Community Health Center, she delivers compassionate, full-spectrum family medicine, balancing acute care with preventive services, chronic disease management, and meaningful patient relationships. Beyond the clinic walls, she plays a vital role in educating the next generation of physicians by serving as a clinical preceptor for Montana WWAMI medical students, enriching their training with real-world rural experience and igniting their passion for primary care.
This award honors clinicians who not only deliver outstanding care but also uplift their teams, advocate for patients, and help shape the future of medicine through mentorship and excellence in practice. Dr. Downey’s impact is felt not just by her patients, but by students and colleagues across the WWAMI network, a testament to her leadership, dedication, and heart.
Congratulations, Dr. Downey! We are incredibly proud of your achievement and grateful for your unwavering commitment to Montana’s communities and the future of family medicine.