ESCANABA — Dr. Edward Bigsby was recently presented with the Michigan’s Top Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Physician Award at the Bureau of EMS Medical Control Authority Conference in October.

The Michigan Department of Community Health’s Trauma and Preparedness division hosted the EMS Medical Control Authority conference. The award was the first of its kind, recognizing 10 categories of EMS providers in the state of Michigan. Among recognition categories were paramedics, EMTs, Medical First Responders and more. Dr. Bigsby received the award for the Physician category, earning the top EMS Physician in the state.

Dr. Bigsby worked as an Emergency Department physician at OSF HealthCare St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group for 22 years. He retired from clinical practice in 2015, but remains employed to provide oversight for EMS and help lead trauma and emergency preparedness efforts for the hospital. In addition to his 34 years of experience as an emergency physician, Dr. Bigsby served for 32 years in the U.S. Army, both active and reserve components. He began in infantry and retired in 2000 as a colonel, U.S. Army Medical Corps.

“Dr. Bigsby is undoubtedly deserving of this award. His knowledge and expertise in the EMS field has been instrumental for our hospital, community and the state of Michigan,” said Dave Lord, president of OSF St. Francis Hospital.

Dr. Bigsby is the medical director of the Delta County Medical Control Authority, which is responsible for medical supervision of EMS. In addition, he sits on several EMS boards, locally and throughout the state. Local committees include Delta County’s Local Emergency Planning Council and the County Emergency Operations Center. Regional Boards include the Regional Medical Control Authority Network, the Regional Trauma Network Board, and the Regional Trauma Advisory Committee. Dr. Bigsby is also a member of the State of Michigan’s Rural EMS Committee.