John G. Walsh Award for Lifetime Contributions to Family Medicine

Created: 1973, Revised 2003
Previously: John G. Walsh Award

This award honors those individuals whose dedication and effective leadership has furthered the development of family medicine. It recognizes long-term dedication, rather than any single significant contribution, and effective leadership toward furthering the development of family medicine. Designed to be the highest honor presented by the Academy, with the exception of honorary membership. Not restricted to members or physicians. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact AAFP at (800) 274-2237, ext. 4502, or jpyszczynski@aafp.org.

History: The late Dr. John Walsh, for whom the award is named, devoted his career to family practice. He distinguished himself by becoming the first individual ever to hold the presidency of three major family practice organizations: the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Board of Family Practice and the Family Health Foundation of America.

Nominations from:

AAFP Board of Directors

Nominations to:

AAFP Board of Directors

Nominations by:

April 1

Presented at:

Congress of Delegates*

*Travel expenses are provided. See AAFP Travel Guidelines for Award recipients.

Process and Timing:

Recommendations for this award are made via the normal Board recommendation process. When the John G. Walsh Award for Lifetime Contributions to Family Medicine is approved for presentation, the Staff Award Coordinator will:

prepare and send congratulatory letter to recipient over President's signature
order award (crystal award)
coordinate travel arrangements

The AAFP Public Relations Staff will:

prepare news script to be used at award presentation
provide a release template on the AAFP Web page with links to Award descriptions and a sample release for use by the recipient