​Michigan Family Physician of the Year

The Michigan Family Physician of the Year award is presented to a physician who exemplifies the tradition and contributions of the family physician to the health of Michigan residents.

Click here to learn more about Dr. David Walsworth.

Eligibility Criteria

• Nominee must be an active MAFP member in good standing; previously nominated physicians who were not selected are eligible for reconsideration (re-nomination required)
• Nominee must be a practicing family physician
• Nominee must have a minimum of 10 years post-residency experience in Michigan
• MAFP members, colleagues, hospital administrators, family medicine residency programs, family medicine departments, patients, and community members are invited to submit nominations
• Two letters of support from colleagues, patients, or community partners are required. Support letters should focus on how the nominee meets the selection criteria.

Selection Criteria

• Provides patients with compassionate, comprehensive and caring family medicine on a continuing basis.
• Actively contributes to the community's well-being through meaningful involvement in local affairs and activities.
• Serves as a credible role model professionally and personally to their community, fellow health professionals, residents and medical students.
• Stands out among colleagues.
• Supports equitable and evidence-based medicine for all Michiganders.

How to Submit a Nomination

• Complete the nomination form by March 1
• Submit the following to MAFP by March 1:
• Two letters of recommendation from patients, colleagues, hospital administrators, and/or community organizations
• Curriculum vitae (optional at the time of nomination)
• Professional headshot (optional at the time of nomination)
• Click here for a sample of the online nomination form.

Past Award Winners

2024: David Walsworth, MD, FAAFP

2023: Raymond Rion, MD

2022: Theodore Tangalos, MD 

2021: Pamela Rockwell, DO, FAAFP

2020: Lynn Gray, MD, MPH, FAAFP** 

2019: James Applegate, MD, FAAFP

2018: E. Chris Bush, MD, FAAFP

2017: Christopher Pogliano, MD, FAAFP

2016: Scott Yaekle, MD

2015: Wasim Rathur, MD

2014: Mary Rupp, MD

2013: Zahid Sheikh, MD

2012: Stefani A. Hudson, MD

2011: Donald Fitch, MD

2009: Mitch Karey, MD

2008: James Hubbard, MD

2007: Douglas Colberg, MD, FAAFP**

2006: Louis Constan, MD, FAAFP

2005: Steve Pollens, MD

2003: Michael Szymanski, MD

2002: Michael Grossman, MD

2001: Peter Thoms, MD, FAAFP

2000: Jerry Walden, MD, FAAFP

1999: BJ Woodley, MD

1998: Loretta Leja, MD

1997: Samuel Dismond, Jr, MD, FAAFP**

1996: William Smith, MD

1995: Lloyd Appell, MD

1994: John Picone, DO

1993: Ralph Cram, MD, FAAFP

1992: Louis Sanford

1991: Robert Paxton, MD, FAAFP

1990: L Edmond (Ted) Eary, Jr, MD, FAAFP