Dr. Marc D. Bingham, a practicing family physician in Spartanburg, is among a select group of physicians honored by the American Academy of Family Physicians Foundation for his commitment to education in the field of family medicine.

Bingham was selected to receive the 2009 Pfizer Teacher Development Award based on his scholastic achievement, leadership qualities and dedication to family medicine.

“As a residency program director for several years, having part-time, community-based family physician colleagues committed to teaching and mentoring resident and students is vital to our program and to our medical school,” said Dr. Mark H. Belfer, AAFP Foundation President. “I applaud the efforts of these award winners for their dedication to the values of family medicine and to teaching the next generation of physicians. In addition, I am very thankful for Pfizer’s continued commitment in this area.”

The $1,500 award recognizes community-based physicians who teach family medicine on a part-time basis. The award provides funding for each recipient to attend an activity of choice to further their professional development and teaching skills.

Bingham earned his medical degree from Louisiana State School of Medicine and is a graduate of the Spartanburg Family Medicine Residency Program, where he is currently a part-time instructor. Bingham will be recognized for this achievement during a ceremony held by his teaching center.

“Dr. Bingham was an outstanding resident during his training at Spartanburg Regional,” said. Dr. Otis Baughman, Director of the Spartanburg Family Medicine Residency Program. “At his graduation he received the award for being the ‘Most Outstanding Resident’ in the Family Medicine Residency Program. His excellence then has carried over into his private practice in Boiling Springs. In spite of being a very busy and successful physician, Dr. Bingham has been volunteering as a teacher of our residents and students."

“The excellence that he has always brought to this profession is evident in all aspects of his life, both personal and professional, and this award is only a small recognition of that. It is an honor to have such an outstanding physician taking the time and effort to be the mentor and teacher of the next generation of Family Physicians.”

The AAFP Foundation, which administers the Pfizer Teacher Development Award, is the philanthropic arm of the American Academy of Family Physicians. The AAFP Foundation advances the values of family medicine by promoting humanitarian, educational and scientific initiatives that improve the health of all people.

For more information, visit www.aafpfoundation.org.