The Heart and Vascular Center at Tift Regional Health System established the Dr. Joseph M. Turner “Outstanding Employee Recognition Award in honor of Dr. Joe Turner for his contributions to the improvement of healthcare.  Dr. Turner has been on the medical staff at Tift Regional for over 51 years, and was one of twelve when he first began his career.  He was the founder of Affinity Health Group, and his leadership skills and contributions to the medical community, have provided excellent healthcare to South Georgia, uncommon in other rural areas.  Due to Dr. Turner’s dedication to heart health, his peers in the Heart and Vascular Center have established this award in his honor.  This award is presented on a quarterly basis to an individual who continuously strives to improve quality, patient safety and the management of population health.