UCalgary family docs take home national awards

Posted November 2, 2009

A number of physicians at the University of Calgary have been recognized for their achievements in family medicine, research and teaching.  The College of Family Physicians of Canada handed out these high-profile awards during the 2009 Family Medicine Forum

Family Physician of the Year for Alberta:  Dr. George Gish
A graduate from the University of Calgary, George became a Certificant of the CFPC in 1979 and a Fellow in 2003.  He also obtained special recognition in anesthesia.  In addition to a busy family practice, George contributes to emergency room coverage at Claresholm General Hospital, care at Willow Creek Auxiliary Hospital and Nursing Home, and is very involved with local mental health, alcohol, drug and addiction programs.

Since 2006, George has Chaired the Calgary Rural Primary Care Network Board and sits on the AMA’s Physician Recruitment and Retention Committee.  In 2007-2008, he was recognized with the Rural Family Medicine Preceptor Award.  From 2006 to 2009, his teaching skills earned him awards of excellence for Outstanding Clerkship Teaching at the University of Calgary. 

Recipient of the Jean-Pierre Despins Award: Dr. Richard Ward
Dr. Richard Ward is an enthusiastic and passionate spokesperson for family medicine, and advocate for comprehensive family practice. Over the last year and a half, Dr. Ward has served as President of the Alberta College of Family Physicians. During his term he has worked extensively in promoting family medicine with governments, media, medical schools, Alberta Health Services and the Alberta Medical Association.

Dr. Ward is a community based family physician working in a multi disciplinary clinic which provides comprehensive care to 15,000 patients. He is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Calgary, Faculty of Medicine.

Dr. Ward has been involved with the CFPC at a national and provincial level in continuing professional development committees, the Family Medicine Forum Advisory Committee, and Annual Scientific Assembly Planning Committees. Recently he developed and hosted a series of family physician forums as well as a full-day session for Alberta physicians, medical students, government representatives and other stakeholders to collaboratively address current family medicine issues.

Click here to read about all the award winners and learn more about The College of Family Physicians of Canada