Recognizing 2026 Rhapsody Physician Award nominee: Dr. Steven Turner
Community: Olds
A physician who created a foundation for modern rural primary care in Olds is being recognized for his efforts.
Dr. Steven Turner established the Wild Rose Medical Centre in the community 32 years ago, which at its height supported 17 family physicians and received the Alberta College of Family Physicians Most Outstanding Family Practice Award in 2018.
He was recently nominated for the 2026 RHPAP Rhapsody Physician Award.
“Very few physicians have had such a durable and measurable impact on rural Alberta as Dr. Steven Turner,” writes Dr. Jaco Hoffman in his nomination for his colleague.
“His work has strengthened healthcare infrastructure, improved access to care, modernized systems through Connect Care implementation, and built a culture of mentorship and service that will benefit rural Albertans for generations.”
Dr. Hoffman started his own practice in Olds with Dr. Turner’s influence.
“Dr. Turner was instrumental in recruiting me to Olds after I completed my anesthesia residency at the University of Calgary,” notes Dr. Hoffman.
“That invitation altered the trajectory of my professional life and reflects who he is at his core — a builder of people, teams, and sustainable rural systems.”
Over the years, Dr. Turner has served as Olds Hospital Site Medical Director, was pivotal in more than doubling operating room capacity, helped develop the Olds/Sundre Primary Care Network, and established onsite medical services for students at Olds College.
Dr. Turner is also active in the community. He served on the Horizon School Board of Directors, founded and directed the Olds and District Hospice and Palliative Care Society, was Rotary Club of Olds president and an international director, and volunteered with local football and swim programs.
“He represents the very best of rural medicine in Alberta,” says Dr. Hoffman.
The recipients of the 2026 Rhapsody Awards will be announced on May 20, 2026!