Snyder appoints Richard Bates to Michigan Board of Medicine

LANSING, Mich. - Gov. Rick Snyder today appointed Dr. Richard Bates, of Ossineke, to the Michigan Board of Medicine.  

The 19-member board is responsible for the examination, regulation, licensing and registration of physicians and surgeons, and for the discipline of licensees who have violated the Michigan Public Health Code. The board oversees the practice of more than 36,000 licensed physicians.

"I am confident that Richard's service will help the board fulfill its mission of promoting and protecting the health, safety and welfare of all Michigan citizens," said Snyder.   

Bates is a physician at Alpena Regional Medical Center. He previously worked in obstetrics at Alcona Health Center and in private group practice with Alpena OB/GYN, both in Alpena. Bates is vice president of the Alpena Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees and a member of the Michigan State Medical Society and Alpena/Alcona/Presque Isle Medical Society. He holds a bachelor's degree from Alma College, a master's degree from Michigan State University and a medical degree from Wayne State University.

Bates will represent physicians for the remainder of a four-year term ending Dec. 31, 2013, filling a vacancy created by the resignation of Suzanne Tomashow. His appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

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