Dr. Donald E. Jablonski '61, DO, FAODME, FACOFP, was recently honored with the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP) Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contributions to the field of osteopathic family medicine.

With a remarkable career spanning over 40 years, Dr. Jablonski has dedicated his life to serving his patients, advancing the practice of osteopathic family medicine, and contributing to the ACOFP. Even in his retirement, he continues to make a difference by practicing part-time.

Dr. Jablonski began his medical journey at the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine and eventually established a successful private practice in Ormond Beach, Florida. Shortly after, he was appointed as the director of medical education at Peninsula Medical Center, where he played a crucial role in shaping the future of medical professionals.

Driven by a passion for medical academia, Dr. Jablonski later joined Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine (OUCOM) as an associate professor of family medicine. During his tenure at OUCOM, he served on various committees, including the Student Progress Committee, and provided valuable guidance as the medical education advisor and chairman of the UR-CQI Committee.

Recognized for his expertise and leadership, Dr. Jablonski was appointed as the CME seminar chairman for the Ohio Osteopathic Association Annual Convention in 1997. He also held the position of chairman of the "Patient Provider Relations Committee" for the Ohio Department of Health, demonstrating his commitment to improving healthcare delivery.

Relocating to North Carolina, Dr. Jablonski became an active member of the North Carolina Osteopathic Medical Association (NCOMA). He served as president of NCOMA on two occasions and organized several Continuing Medical Education (CME) programs. His dedication to advancing the field led to the formation of the North Carolina Society of the ACOFP, where he served as president and CME director for an impressive five years.

Dr. Jablonski's impact extended beyond his local community. In 2006, he was appointed to the prestigious North Carolina Medical Board, where he served diligently for six years before being elected as its president in 2010. His leadership and expertise played a vital role in shaping medical policies and regulations.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Jablonski has received numerous accolades in recognition of his unwavering commitment and contributions. As a mentor and leader, he strongly emphasizes the importance of physician involvement in all aspects of osteopathic medicine, including lecturing, publishing articles in journals, and providing political input to various societies.

We congratulate Dr. Jablonski on this well-deserved Lifetime Achievement Award from the ACOFP. His remarkable journey, dedication, and passion serve as an inspiration to current and future generations of osteopathic physicians. Dr. Jablonski's impact on the field of osteopathic family medicine will continue to be felt for years to come, and his legacy is a testament to the power of service and leadership in healthcare.