Friends, family, colleagues and local dignitaries gathered at a reception at the Railside Golf Course hosted by Gibson Area Hospital and Health Services (GAHHS) to honor Drs. Hagan, Price and Spangler for their dedicated service toward improving healthcare in rural communities.
The doctors were selected by the Illinois Rural Health Association (IRHA) to receive the 2013 Rural Physicians of Excellence Award. GAHHS CEO Rob Schmitt also received a copy of House Resolution 690 introduced by Rep. Josh Harms (R-Watseka) commending the hospital for their 60 years of service and as well the many national recognitions they have received including being named the country’s best hospital for Overall Patient Satisfaction.
In a tradition started over a decade ago by the National Rural Health Association, the Illinois Rural Health Association has been honoring physicians who exhibit a special commitment to rural healthcare. IRHA would like to extend a special thanks to the 2013 Rural Physician of Excellence award sponsors: Gibson Area Hospital & Health Services, HSHS Medical Group, SIU School of Medicine, the Illinois Hospital Association, Illinois Health Connect, Midwest Bank, Principal Financial Group, iParati Consulting, the Illinois State Medical Society and Henry/Stock County Health Department.
“One of the biggest healthcare challenges across our nation is the shortage of physicians who practice in rural settings. IRHA feels it is important to recognize those who have accepted this calling and gone out of their way to make an impact,” explained Margaret Vaughn, IRHA Executive Director.
ABOUT IRHA: Founded in 1989, the Illinois Rural Health Association is a collaborative association of academic institutions, clinics, consumers, hospitals, health care practitioners, public health administrators, public officials and others who are committed to strengthening health systems for rural residents and communities. IRHA is 501 c-3 non-profit association.
Pictured:
The Illinois Rural Health Association (IRHA) presented Dr. David Hagan, Dr. Mark Spangler and Dr. Bill Price with the 2013 Rural Physician of Excellence Award during a reception at the Railside Golf Course hosted by Gibson Area Hospital and Health Services.
Pictured (left to right): 1st row sitting: Dr. David Hagan, Dr. Mark Spangler and Dr. Bill Price.
2nd row standing: GAHHS Board President Jim Hood, Tom Hess, IRHA Executive Director Margaret Vaughn, IRHA Board Member Lori Williams and GAHHS CEO Rob Schmitt.
