Peach Tree Times

The Georgia Academy of Family Physicians (GAFP) has awarded Georgia Senator Blake Tillery with its Family Medicine Legislative Champion of the Year Award, recognizing his significant contributions toward improving healthcare access and outcomes in the state.

GAFP highlighted his efforts to tailor provider payments for access and support for primary care as a vital step toward enhancing healthcare across the state. “Sen. Tillery, through unwavering dedication and pivotal legislative contributions, has emerged as a steadfast advocate for the health care needs of Georgians,” said Georgia Academy of Family Physicians Chapter President Dr. Samuel L. “Le” Church. “His leadership showcases a profound commitment to not only advancing the health care landscape in Georgia but ensuring our patients have access to the comprehensive care they deserve.”

“I’m deeply honored to receive the Family Medicine Legislative Champion of the Year Award from the Georgia Academy of Family Physicians. Ensuring that all Georgians, regardless of zip code, have access to quality healthcare is a significant force behind my legislative and budgetary efforts,” shared Sen. Tillery. “This recognition is not just a reflection of our work but a reminder of the ongoing need to support our primary care providers and enhance healthcare access and promote preventative care across our state.”

Senator Tillery was elected to represent Georgia’s 19th district in 2016, and in the last legislative session served as chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, vice chair of both the Government Oversight Committee and State Institutions and Property Committee, as well as secretary of the Senate Retirement Committee. He was also a member of the Finance Committee. He has sponsored several healthcare laws during his tenure, including the ‘Patients First Act.’

He earned his bachelor’s degree in international affairs from the University of Georgia and his Juris Doctor at the University of Georgia School of Law in 2010. He is managing partner at Smith and Tillery, P.C., and previously co-chaired Leadership Toombs-Montgomery program. Tillery has also served as Chairman of Toombs County Commission, Heart of Georgia Workforce Investment Board, and Toombs County Boys and Girls Club Board.

Founded in 1947, GAFP is a chapter of American Academy of Family Physicians with more than 3,200 members including family physicians, residents, and medical students. Its mission is promoting Georgians’ health by advancing family medicine through education, advocacy, and service.

Senator Blake Tillery serves as Chairman on Senate Appropriations Committee representing 19th Senate District covering Appling, Bacon Jeff Davis Long Montgomery Telfair Toombs Wayne Wheeler counties portion Coffee County.

For media inquiries: SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov