West Virginia Academy of Family Physicians Honors Two Generations of Physicians with Top Awards

Hurricane, WV – March 9, 2026 – The West Virginia Academy of Family Physicians (WVAFP) recognized two distinguished physicians whose careers exemplify the dedication and impact of Family Medicine during its recent Annual Scientific Assembly, presenting Nathaniel S. Linger, MD, with the WVAFP Family Doctor of the Year Award and Joseph B. Reed, MD, with the inaugural WVAFP Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Family Doctor of the Year Award is presented annually to a WVAFP member who demonstrates exceptional commitment to patient care, professional leadership, and service to their community while embodying the mission and values of Family Medicine in West Virginia. This year’s honoree, Dr. Nathaniel Linger, an employee of Community Care of West Virginia, serves patients in Buckhannon and Upshur County, where he returned to practice Family Medicine in the community that raised him. Through his dedication to comprehensive, patient-centered care, Dr. Linger represents the essential role family physicians play in improving the health of communities across the Mountain State.

The Academy also presented its first-ever WVAFP Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Joseph B. Reed, a Past President of the WVAFP, honoring his extraordinary career and lasting contributions to Family Medicine in West Virginia. Over more than six decades of practice in Buckhannon, Dr. Reed cared for generations of families and became a trusted physician, mentor, and community leader. Even after retiring from clinical practice, he has remained actively involved in community service and advocacy for health care in the region.

The recognition of both physicians carried a particularly meaningful connection: Dr. Reed delivered Dr. Linger when he was born, symbolizing a powerful continuum of care and mentorship across generations of family physicians.

“This moment reflects the very essence of family medicine,” said Dr. Matthew A. Davis, WVAFP CEO. “Dr. Reed’s lifelong service and Dr. Linger’s continued commitment to caring for his community illustrate the enduring impact family physicians have on patients, families, and the health of West Virginia.”