Sponsored: Arrowhead Medical Supply
AMS is building partnerships across tribal health, federal agencies, and health systems to empower Native communities and redefine supplier standards.
Arrowhead Medical Supply (AMS) was founded by Wayne Montour, a proud advocate for Native representation in business, who saw both a need and an opportunity to increase Native American presence in the healthcare supply chain. Montour brought that vision to life by recruiting long-time medical distribution and manufacturing executives Gina Marchese and Scott Quilty to help launch the company. The result is a purposeful mix of cultural identity, business acumen, and operational expertise.
AMS operates with a clear mission to empower Native communities while serving as a reliable, forward-thinking partner to health systems. It offers a combination of Indigenous credentials and proven industry experience. With Native Americans owning less than one percent of all U.S. businesses, and only a small portion of those in healthcare, Arrowhead is focused on creating pathways for meaningful participation and leadership in the sector.
“This company represents more than a business venture,” said Montour. “It’s about creating opportunity for Native-owned enterprises to be recognized as credible, strategic suppliers in a space where we have traditionally been underrepresented.”
Montour’s leadership is shaped by personal history. His father, Roy Montour, was a member of the Mohawks of Kahnawake, born in Buffalo, New York in 1925, and built a life rooted in resilience and self-reliance. After a long career with General Motors, Roy went on to launch his own business, Arrowhead Refrigeration, serving the local hotel industry with hands-on skill and determination. That work ethic was passed down to Wayne, who first founded Green Arrow, a successful staffing firm, before turning his focus to AMS.
Connections and impact
Arrowhead Medical Supply works across three distinct areas of the healthcare landscape: tribal health networks, federal agencies, and Integrated Delivery Networks (IDNs).
The first priority is expanding partnerships with Indian Health Service and tribal communities, including the twelve federally recognized tribes in Michigan. “There is tremendous opportunity here in Michigan to deliver real value to our Native communities,” said Montour, who is a member of the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe based in Akwesasne, New York. “And we see similar opportunities in New York and other states where we can build relationships that reflect the needs of each tribe and community we serve.”
Arrowhead is also engaging with federal institutions such as the Department of Defense and the Veterans Affairs health system. These agencies offer Indian incentive programs that create meaningful channels for certified Native-owned businesses to contribute.
Another focus is the IDN and non-acute care market, where healthcare systems are actively seeking ways to meet minority business enterprise (MBE) spend goals. “Many health systems have made bold commitments to increase their spend with MBE suppliers,” Montour said. “We are collaborating with organizations that see us not only as a way to meet those goals, but as a capable and dependable supplier who can scale with their needs.”
AMS has established a strong base of Class I medical products and sourcing partnerships that emphasize U.S.-based and near-shore manufacturing. These relationships are built with a strict eye on compliance, product performance, and long-term supply chain strength.
“Our sourcing strategy is built on consistency, accountability, and the ability to grow alongside our customers,” said Gina Marchese, Senior Advisor for Operations. “We have aligned with suppliers who understand the realities of healthcare delivery and share our commitment to service and quality. That is what our customers deserve and expect.”
Montour added, “We understand what health systems are looking for. They want products they can trust, delivered on time, and backed by responsive support. Beyond that, we aim to provide lasting value and first-class service. That is the standard we hold ourselves to, and it guides who we choose to work with.”