Leland Phipps, MD, Honored by IRHA

The Illinois Rural Health Association has awarded Leland Phipps, MD, a 2017 Physician of Excellence Award (posthumous). The award is presented to doctors who have made a significant impact on the health of communities and shown dedication toward improving access to care in medically underserved areas of the state.

Dr. Phipps, who passed away suddenly in May 2017, was a family practice physician at Paris Community Hospital/Family Medical Center. During his 36 years of practice, he was seen as the organization’s "patriarch" for the many leadership roles he held, as well as an inspiration to the many students he mentored.

Family and colleagues recently attended a special reception honoring the late Dr. Phipps. His wife, Carol, and their son, Michael, accepted the 2017 Physician of Excellence Award on his behalf. They also received a special copy of the Illinois House Resolution recognizing Dr. Phipps and the receipt of this award from State Rep. Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville).

Eunice Chaney, Family Medical Center manager, nominated Dr. Phipps for the award. She, and other colleagues, spoke briefly during the ceremony. Reid Sutton, MD, hospitalist at PCH/FMC and long-time friend of Dr. Phipps, commented: “He strove for excellence, and he reached it.”

Pictured are (front row): Carol Phipps; Eunice Chaney, Family Medical Center manager; and Michael Phipps; (second row) Ollie Smith, PCH/FMC president & CEO; Margaret Vaughn, IRHA director; Philip Holloway, DMP; Reid Sutton, MD; Terri Agin, IRHA treasurer; and State Rep. Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville).