THIENSVILLE — In Wisconsin, family physicians serve millions of residents from birth through end of life, offering comprehensive primary care. As the first contact with the health care system, family physicians often form a lasting bond with patients, their families, and the community. To help bring recognition to these dedicated individuals, the Wisconsin Academy of Family Physicians is now accepting nominations for its 2022 Family Physician of the Year award.

“Family physicians devote their careers to advocating for their patients’ needs and taking responsibility for their long-term care. They are able to diagnose and treat 85% of all ailments, plus coordinate the best possible care when other specialists are needed,” said Dr. Elizabeth Pyne, WAFP President. “Through this award, patients can acknowledge that valuable service and the bond of trust that develops with their family physicians.”

The Family Physician of the Year is selected based on outstanding service to patients, community, and devotion to Family Medicine. Nominees for this annual award must be members in good standing of the Academy to be considered. The 2022 award recipient will be honored with a special presentation before his or her peers during WAFP’s Virtual Annual Business Meeting in January.

Past recipients of the award include Dr. Bill Heifner of Oregon, Dr. Andrew Wright of Richland Center, and Dr. Deborah Dryer of Ashland. The physician selected for the Wisconsin award may also be nominated for the National Family Physician of the Year Award presented by the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Individuals are encouraged to nominate their family physician no later than October 1, 2021, describing why s/he should receive the Family Physician of the Year Award. Submit your nomination online at https://www.wafp.org/forms/family-physician-of-the-year-nomination-form or email nomination letters to the Wisconsin Academy of Family Physicians at academy@wafp.org.

The Wisconsin Academy of Family Physicians was established in 1948 to promote excellence in health care and to improve the health of the people of Wisconsin through the advancement of the art and science of Family Medicine, the specialty of Family Medicine and the professional growth of Family Physicians. For additional information visit www.wafp.org.