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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding physician and leader in the State of Florida, Dr. Allan Escher of Tampa, who has been named the 2026 Physician of the Year by the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association. Dr. Escher's distinguished career reflects an unwavering commitment to excellence in patient care, medical education, and ethical leadership. As a respected anesthesiologist, he has dedicated his professional life to ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of his patients--often during their most vulnerable moments.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Escher serves as Vice-Chair of the Clinical Ethics Committee at Moffitt Cancer Center, where he helps guide complex and compassionate decision-making for patients and families facing serious illness. His role as an Associate Professor at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine further demonstrates his commitment to mentoring the next generation of physicians and strengthening the future of healthcare in our state. Notably, Dr. Escher is the first anesthesiologist in the history of the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association to receive this prestigious honor--an achievement that underscores both his professional excellence and the profound respect he has earned among his peers. This recognition is a testament not only to Dr. Escher's clinical expertise, but also to his leadership in advancing patient-centered care and upholding the highest ethical standards in medicine.
I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Dr. Allan Escher on this well-deserved honor and in thanking him for his continued service to our community. His work exemplifies the very best of the medical profession and serves as an inspiration to us all.
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