They are the ‘unsung heroes’ of Alberta’s rural communities, providing outstanding medical services, and making huge contributions to the health and well-being of their communities.
Each year, RPAP presents the Alberta Rural Physician Award of Distinction to an unsung hero of rural healthcare in Alberta.
Nominate your healthcare hero for an RPAP Award
Visit www.rpap.ab.ca/awards for more information on the RPAP Awards and to access a nomination form.
Looking for inspiration? Check out the story of Dr. Michael Boorman, our 2004 rural Alberta physician of distinction.
“Approaching people like they’re old friends”
Nurturing trust and abilities, and approaching people like they’re old friends, are the secrets to a successful practise for Dr. Michael G. Boorman of Rimbey, who was selected to be the third recipient of the Alberta Rural Physician Award of Distinction in 2004.
Following a review of the 14 outstanding candidates nominated, the RPAP Coordinating Committee selected Dr. Boorman based on his well-rounded contributions to rural medicine, significant contributions to his community and his international service.
“Mike leads by example,” stated Judy Drebert, the site leader at Rimbey Hospital in 2004. “The genuine spirit that he possesses, that humbleness that he personifies, not wanting recognition, those are things that are not ‘rah-rah come and follow me’ kind of things, but they are traits that are honoured and important, “
As with previous recipients, Dr. Boorman received widespread community support for his nomination, with letters of support comin from 30 members of the community.
“This Award process demonstrates that not only do the nominees contribute to their profession, but their communities also recognize their contributions in many volunteer areas,” said Dr. Odell Olson, chairperson of the ’04 coordinating committee.
Dr. Boorman received his award at a June celebration co-hosted by RPAP and the Rimbey community. He continues to practise in Rimbey to this day.
Click here to view the entire RPAP Rural Physician Award of Distinction playlist and other great videos on our YouTube channel.