Frank Hale, PhD, clinical professor and family medicine education leader, passes away

Frank Hale, PhD, a former clinical professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the College of Medicine – Tucson passed away on Aug. 4. 

Hale was an important and valued faculty member in the department during the 1980s and 1990s.

He served as the director of the U of A family medicine statewide faculty development program and trained individuals who would go on to serve as faculty in the department and other areas. He was also successful in obtaining federal grants that supported the department's educational programs.

Hale was a leader in family medicine education in Arizona. He was also active nationally via numerous publications and serving on the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine Board of Directors from 1999-2001. He was a recipient of both Fulbright and World Health Organization fellowships. He received the national Excellence in Education Award from the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine in 1999. 

After his position with the department, Hale continued his dedication to community health as the executive director of the El Pueblo Health Center on Tucson’s south side. Under his leadership, the center grew to become part of the El Rio Health System, further extending his impact on health care in the region.

Hale is survived by his wife, Patty, his five grown children and many grandchildren.