FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 15, 2008
DHEC names physicians of the year
COLUMBIA – Two South Carolina physicians have been recognized for their service to public health, the state Department of Health and Environmental Control announced today.
"We need a variety of partners to have a successful public health system," said DHEC Commissioner Earl Hunter. "Dr. Richard Ervin and Dr. Hal Anderson exemplify the best qualities of service and dedication so that we can have healthy South Carolinians living in healthy communities."
Richard Ervin, M.D., a Florence physician who specializes in infectious diseases, was recognized for nearly 30 years of service to tuberculosis patients as DHEC Region 6's TB clinic physician. Dr. Ervin also serves as the state tuberculosis program physician consultant and works part time as the Director of Medical Informatics at McLeod Regional Medical Center.
"Dr. Ervin's skills, personality, expertise and passion for his work make him an irreplaceable asset to our state TB program," said Lisa Waddell, M.D., deputy commissioner for DHEC Health Services. "I have no doubt that TB patients are in solid hands and the public is, without a doubt, better protected."
Hal Anderson, M.D., a retired pediatrician who works monthly in Child Health at DHEC's York County Public Health Department, received his award from Ernie Bell, Ph.D., regional health director for DHEC's Region 3.
"For some people, service stops at retirement, but for a doctor such as Hal Anderson, dedication to service continues well beyond retirement," Bell said. "York County's children benefit from his heartfelt care and concern."
"The first thing that comes to mind is caring and compassion when you are talking about Dr. Hal Anderson," said Arleen Fincher, R.N., and DHEC's York County Health Supervisor, in her nomination letter. "He goes above and beyond in seeing our clients. Dr. Anderson takes the time to inform parents thoroughly and they comment that he answers all their questions in a way they can understand."
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Photographs are available via the Web site (mid-quality resolution) or by request (high resolution).
For more information:
Clair Boatwright – (803) 898-4461
E-mail – boatwrc@dhec.sc.gov