On Thursday, July 31, Dr. Richard Boatsman was honored with the Lawton Award in Excellence, the highest award the city can bestow. Every year, during the City of Lawton’s Birthday Celebration week, awards are given to deserving members of the community.
Dr. Boatsman came to Comanche County Memorial Hospital in 1975 as the Director of Laboratories. He also led CCMH’s School of Medical Technology and directed the Extern Program (an initiative that allowed medical students from the Lawton area to practice under physician’s supervision). It is important to note that at least one medical student from each class returned to practice in Lawton.
In 1993, Dr. Boatsman was one of the founding members of the Comanche County Memorial Hospital Foundation with the goal of raising funds that are used to provide enhanced care through innovation.
Dr. Boatsman is a passionate advocate for public health. In 1977 he founded the Oklahoma Blood Institute. He and the team at OBI raised the standards for all blood testing, including becoming the world’s first blood bank to test for the HIV virus.
Dr. Boatsman is an active member of the community, serving for over 20 years on the board of directors of the Lawton Food Bank, the Cancer Centers of SW Oklahoma, various roles with the Chamber of Commerce, the Comanche County Fair Board and is currently the Chairman of CCMH Foundation Board.
Congratulations to Dr. Boatsman! We are so proud of your accomplishments and your commitment to the health of Southwest Oklahoma.