The 2008 recipient of the RPAP Rural Physician Award of Distinction believed there was more to life than making money, so he channeled his beliefs into three decades of service to rural Alberta communities.
Dr. Hess Boschma of Wabamun was selected for the award based on his quiet commitment to those populations who do not have a lot, First Nations communities in particular, his overcoming of personal adversity and his contributions to rural communities.
“He’s a person who’s not afraid to speak his mind, and his leadership is not words but actual action,” said Grace Moe, CAO of the West View Primary Care Network. “We call him our gentle healer.”
On 13 June 2008 the Jubilee Hall in Wabamun was filled with well-wishers who helped Dr. Hess Boschma of Wabamun celebrate his selection as the recipient of the 2008 Alberta Rural Physician Award of Distinction. In a celebration co-sponsored by the RPAP, WestView Primary Care Network, Westview Physician Collaborative and the Wabamun community, RPAP Board Chair, Dr. Clayne Steed, presented the award to Dr. Boschma.
Sadly, less than a year after the celebration, Dr. Boschma passed away suddenly on 17 February 2009 at the age of 58 years.
Click here to view the entire RPAP Rural Physician Award of Distinction playlist and other great videos on our YouTube channel.
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