February 3rd is National Women’s Physician (Doctors) Day. Let’s Celebrate our favorite women docs today and everyday by remembering the first female physician to earn a medical degree-Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell-paving the way for future female generations to recognize that all things are possible.
Why is National Women’s Doctors Day celebrated on February 3rd?
It is celebrated in remembrance and honor of Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell born on February 3rd, 1821, a native of London who moved with her family at the age of 11 to the United States. She grew up to be schoolteacher by trade but became the first woman in the United States (U.S.) to earn a degree in Medicine.
Her interest in Medicine was sparked after a friend became ill and remarked had a female doctor cared for her, she may have suffered less. In the spirit of compassionate patient care she applied to many medical schools only to be turned down due to her “female intellect,” as felt women not smart enough to be a doctor and finally accepted as a “joke,” by the male medical students at Geneva Medical College in New York only to graduate as the first woman physician in 1849.
She went on to treat soldiers and families in the Civil War along with a long list of achievements including training nurses for Union Hospitals to provide for the sick and wounded, opening a Women’s Medical College in New York, and the New York Infirmary for Women and Children just to list a few.
Are there a lot of Women Doctors in the U.S. to Celebrate today?
As per a 2022 poll, 37 % of all physicians or doctors practicing in the U.S. are women. In fact, Medical Schools are now training more women to be doctors than men. Currently, a large proportion are pediatricians (doctors for kids) fewer are orthopedic surgeons (doctors that operate on the muscles and bones) but women are making headway in virtually all specialties of medicine and surgery.
Fun facts about Women Doctors?
Research says the average female physician is more dedicated to preventative care or preventing disease, are more likely to follow clinical guidelines and if a surgeon who operates may have better surgical outcomes than her male counterparts.
Women doctors even have a lower rate of mortality (fewer patients die), and patients with fewer visits to the hospitals or readmissions.
Any other things to keep in mind on National Women’s Doctors Day?
Just plain and simple-Celebrate your favorite female doctor-be it in remembrance of Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell or your personal doctor. It is a special day to honor and applaud their achievements especially those who were brave enough to blaze the trail for future generations and to make all things possible.
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