WVAFP’s Gerry Stover Inducted into the West Virginia Executive Health Care Hall of Fame

The West Virginia Academy of Family Physicians (WVAFP) proudly celebrates the induction of our esteemed Executive Vice President Gerry Stover into the West Virginia Executive Health Care Hall of Fame. This honor recognizes Gerry’s decades of dedication to healthcare advocacy, policy leadership, and the advancement of family medicine in West Virginia and beyond. 

A Lifetime of Service to Healthcare and Family Medicine 

With an extensive career in healthcare administration, policy development, and military service, Gerry has shaped the landscape of healthcare in West Virginia through strategic leadership, innovative initiatives, and an unwavering commitment to rural health and medical education.

His service as Executive Vice President of WVAFP and the Kentucky Academy of Family Physicians has placed him at the forefront of advocating for family physicians and improving healthcare access in both states. Under his leadership, WVAFP has successfully championed policies that strengthen primary care, support physician workforce development, and promote rural healthcare initiatives. 

Beyond his contributions to organized medicine, Gerry has held executive and administrative positions across multiple healthcare institutions. As CEO of University Physicians and Surgeons (1999–2004), Clinic Administrator for the West Virginia Air National Guard (1986–1989), and Executive Director of the Lincoln County Primary Care Center (1986–1996), he played a vital role in expanding healthcare services, implementing quality care models, and securing funding for rural health programs. His ability to navigate both the operational and policy sides of healthcare has made him an indispensable advocate for family medicine in West Virginia. 

An Advocate for Rural Healthcare and Education 

Gerry’s commitment to rural healthcare extends far beyond administration. His tenure as Director of Rural Health for the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (2009–2011) underscores his efforts to strengthen medical education and training programs for future physicians serving rural populations. Additionally, his longstanding role as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Marshall University’s School of Medicine (since 1985) highlights his dedication to mentoring and educating the next generation of family physicians. 

His expertise has been sought at national and state levels, leading to multiple appointments on influential healthcare committees and task forces. He has served as Chair of the Governor’s Process Action Team on Health Care Reform, a Member of the Governor’s Medicaid Crisis Panel, and an Advisory Board Member to the West Virginia Board of Risk and Insurance Management. Through these roles, Gerry has been instrumental in shaping policy decisions that impact healthcare access, affordability, and quality across the state. 

Distinguished Military Service and Leadership 

In addition to his healthcare leadership, Gerry is a retired Colonel in the United States Air Force Reserve, with a distinguished military career that spans over three decades. He has completed numerous specialized military training programs, including the Air War College, Air Command and Staff College, and the Health Services Executive Course. His military honors include the Legion of Merit, Air Force Meritorious Service Medal (with three Oak Leaf Clusters), and Navy Achievement Medal. 

During his time as an Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officer for West Virginia (1989–2008), Gerry played a crucial role in coordinating disaster response efforts, including those following Hurricane Katrina and the September 11 terrorist attacks. His ability to manage crisis response, logistics, and healthcare coordination in emergency situations has been invaluable to both military and civilian healthcare systems. 

A Legacy of Innovation and Grant Development 

Gerry has also been a prolific grant writer and program developer, securing thousands of dollars in funding for healthcare projects that benefit underserved populations. He has successfully obtained grants from the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, the Kresge Foundation, and the Bureau of Public Health, among others. These grants have supported health services expansion, rural clinic construction, electronic health record transitions, and medical home pilot programs. 

His ability to bring funding to critical healthcare initiatives has ensured that family medicine remains at the heart of patient-centered care in West Virginia. 

Recognition and Impact 

Gerry’s induction into the West Virginia Executive Health Care Hall of Fame is a testament to his lifelong dedication to healthcare advocacy, rural medicine, medical education, and military service. His impact has been felt at every level—from individual physician support to state healthcare policy development. 

The WVAFP is incredibly proud of Gerry’s achievements and his unwavering commitment to improving healthcare for all West Virginians. His leadership, mentorship, and strategic vision have set a high standard for those who follow in his footsteps. 

Join Us in Honoring Gerry Stover 

We encourage all WVAFP members and colleagues to celebrate Gerry’s incredible contributions and express their gratitude for his decades of service. His induction into the Hall of Fame is not only an individual achievement but a recognition of the power of advocacy, leadership, and dedication to family medicine. 

Congratulations, Gerry! Your legacy of service and leadership will continue to inspire future generations of healthcare professionals.