Established in 2009, the American Osteopathic Foundation’s (AOF) Physician of the Year Award annually recognizes a top doctor whose dedication and leadership has improved the lives of countless people using Osteopathic tenets and principles. This individual achieves greatness through integrity, commitment to service, and community involvement.

Purpose
The Physician of the Year Award recognizes one (1) individual whose extraordinary accomplishments (over the past 12-24 months) and service bring a sense of pride to the profession, and whose actions promote the science of medicine and the betterment of public health.

Award 

A recognition award will be presented to one (1) individual who exemplifies the award’s purpose.

Eligibility

• Nominee is an Osteopathic physician  with a minimum of ten (10) years in practice.
• Nominee displays an unwavering dedication to patients and has made a significant impact in direct patient care.
• Nominee makes an extraordinary impact on the lives of others and is consistently seen as a role model by their peers.
• Nominee consistently promotes the art and science of Osteopathic medicine and has made significant contributions to the field of clinical medicine.
• Nominee uses innovative methods to improve public health through a specific act or service.
• Nominee has made and continues to provide innovative contributions in medicine or to the community.
• Nominee embodies the values of the Osteopathic profession through their leadership and service.
• Note: AOA members will be given preference for this award.

Nomination Requirements

• Completed online nomination form – self nominations not accepted
• Three letters of recommendation to include: one (1) letter of recommendation from the nominator and two (2) additional from the following list:  current or former employer, current or past member of the AOA, AOF or another Osteopathic organization’s board of directors, practicing DO, or a current or former patient.
• The nominee’s current curriculum vitae or resume that demonstrates their current body of work supporting Osteopathic medicine, patient-centered care, and clinical medicine (include current memberships, Osteopathic or other)
• Proof of AOA membership
• Optional: Supporting documentation in the form of formal commendations, citations or awards, newspaper or magazine articles, or other media-related profiles will be accepted, but shall serve only as evidence to support the nomination 

Review Process

Nomination period opens March 17, 2025 and closes May 19, 2025.  The award winner and their nominator will be notified by July 31, 2025. The 2025 Physician of the Year will be awarded their recognition at OMED, during AOF’s Honors Gala, on Friday, September 26, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee.  The Award winner will receive two (2) complimentary tickets, to the Gala, along with a travel stipend to defray travel and hotel accommodation associated with attending the event.

Click here to access the nomination portal.