Collette Carter Named Chair of the Medical Fitness Association

Owensboro Health is proud to announce that Collette Carter, Director of the Owensboro Health Healthpark, has been named the Board Chair of the Medical Fitness Association (MFA), a national organization advancing wellness through medically integrated fitness. Carter, who began her term in January 2025, is the first leader from Kentucky to hold this position—marking a proud milestone for both her and our health system.

With nearly three decades of service at Owensboro Health, Carter has long championed wellness, prevention and whole-person care. Her journey to this role began with years of active involvement in MFA, serving as a regional committee chair, certification surveyor and member of the annual conference committee. Her leadership is rooted in experience and a deep belief in the mission of medical fitness.

“This isn’t just a professional achievement—it’s a team accomplishment,” Carter says. “Being part of MFA has helped our team of experts grow the Healthpark into what it is today: a leader in medical fitness and a vital part of Owensboro Health’s care continuum.”

The Medical Fitness Association is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1991 to promote standards, education and collaboration across medically integrated fitness centers. These facilities focus on prevention and treatment of chronic disease through clinical programs, physical activity, nutrition and health education. Carter describes MFA’s role with certification standards and guidelines as “the guardrails” that ensure excellence, safety and credibility in this evolving field, along with Owensboro Health’s own efforts and commitment to safety.

Under Carter’s leadership, Owensboro Health Healthpark became the first facility in Kentucky to achieve MFA certification in 2013. This rigorous process measures everything from medical oversight to emergency procedures and documented outcomes, and it helped solidify the Healthpark’s reputation for quality.

But Carter’s leadership extends beyond titles and checklists. Her story reflects a personal dedication to the health of our region. A former news reporter and producer, and marketing leader, she transitioned into healthcare nearly 30 years ago, driven by a desire to make a difference in the community she calls home. Since becoming Director of the Healthpark in 2009, she’s focused on improving health and keeping people well—whether that’s playing with grandkids again or getting a chronic condition under control.

As MFA chair, Carter hopes to expand national partnerships, including work with the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. She’s also excited to bring industry education directly to our community. In June, Owensboro will host MFA’s Central Regional Summit, giving our team the chance to connect with professionals from across the country without ever leaving town.

When asked about the most fulfilling part of her work, Carter doesn't hesitate. “It’s the people,” she says. “Helping someone lose 100 pounds, manage diabetes or just feel confident enough to walk through our doors—that’s why I come to work every day.”

Carter also sees her new role as a chance to mentor others in the field, especially women in leadership. “You have to be bold and have passion for the work,” she says. “You have to be willing to step outside your comfort zone. The work we do makes a difference, and the opportunity to lead in this space is a privilege I don’t take lightly.”

At Owensboro Health, we believe wellness isn’t a luxury—it’s a foundation. Carter’s leadership, both here at home and now on a national stage, helps ensure that foundation is strong. She’s more than a director. She’s a voice for change, a mentor for the future and a tireless advocate for a healthier community.

Congratulations, Colette. We’re proud of you—and we’re behind you all the way.