Two Alberta awards aim to recognize the contributions of rural physicians to the quality of rural life and to help retain their skills in rural Alberta. The awards, presented by The Alberta Rural Physician Action Plan, recognize that beyond their medical practice, rural physicians are often "unsung heroes" making significant contributions in other areas and to the fabric of rural life.

In March of each year, public nominations are solicited for the:

• Early Careerist Award, which recognizes the significant contributions of a rural physician within the first twelve years of practice. Recipients of this award are innovative, energetic and passionate about rural medicine and the rural lifestyle. They are seen to be current or future icons in their field and area already making a difference for their clients, their community and medical practice. Dr. Mike Kolber of Peace River received the inaugural award. The 2006 recipient will be announced during Rural Health Week, June 18 - 24, 2006; and
• Award of Distinction, which recognizes the contributions of rural physicians with more than twelve years of practice who provide Alberta rural communities with outstanding medical services and who also make huge contributions through teaching, conducting research and volunteering in their community. Past recipients of this award were Dr. Stu Iglesias of Hinton; Dr. David Miller of Beaverlodge; Dr. Michael Boorman of Rimbey and Dr. Elizabeth Racz of Drumheller. The 2006 recipient will be announced during Rural Health Week, June 18 - 24, 2006.