National Doctors’ Day

What is National Doctors’ Day?

In the United States, March 30 is observed as National Doctor’s Day, although it is not well-known or observed outside the healthcare community.

Most hospitals, large clinics, and medical societies recognize their physicians today and the staffs of small or solo doctor practices will do something special for their boss.

The first Doctors’ Day

The first Doctors’ Day observance was on March 30, 1933, in Winder, Ga. The idea came from Eudora Brown Almond, wife of Dr. Charles B. Almond, and the date was the anniversary of the first use of general anesthetic in surgery. (On March 30, 1842, in Jefferson, Ga., Dr. Crawford Long used ether to remove a tumor from a patient’s neck.)

The Barrow County (Georgia) Medical Society Auxiliary proclaimed the day “Doctors’ Day,” which was celebrated by mailing cards to physicians and their wives and by placing flowers on the graves of deceased doctors, including Dr. Long’s.

Dr. Aletha examining an infant on a volunteer trip — Dr. Aletha on a volunteer medical trip.

The U.S. House of Representatives adopted a resolution commemorating Doctors’ Day on March 30, 1958. In 1990, the U.S. Congress overwhelmingly approved legislation establishing a National Doctors’ Day and then-President George H.W. Bush signed the resolution. The first National Doctors’ Day was celebrated on March 30, 1991.

Why a doctor deployed to war

Dr. Bill Krissoff exemplifies commitment to his profession, family, and country. I think you will agree after watching this video.

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Author: Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.

As a family physician, I explore the HEART of HEALTH in my work, recreation, community, and through writing. My blog, Watercress Words, informs and inspires us to live in health. I believe we can turn our health challenges into healthy opportunities. When we do, we can share the HEART of health with our families, communities, and the world. Come explore and share with me. View all posts by Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.