National Women Physicians Day

National Women Physicians Day History

National Women Physicians Day is dedicated to acknowledging the invaluable contributions women physicians make in healthcare. It serves to commemorate and appreciate women doctors across the nation who tirelessly contribute to medical advancements, patient care, and the improvement of public health. Additionally, this day promotes understanding and awareness about the experiences of women in the medical profession, while inspiring the next generation of female physicians.

The inaugural National Women Physicians Day was celebrated on February 3, 2016. This auspicious date was chosen to honor the birthday of Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States in 1849. Dr. Blackwell championed the participation of women in the medical profession, paving the way for future females in the healthcare field.

National Women Physicians Day highlights the important strides and achievements made by females in the medical profession. From breaking gender barriers in fields traditionally dominated by men, to pioneering research and developments in healthcare, women physicians leave profound legacies. Beyond this, it's a day to encourage more women to take up medicine and inspire positive changes in the industry. The celebrated observance takes place annually on February 3rd.

Facts about National Women Physicians Day

• According to the Commonwealth Fund, for every dollar a man earns, a women earns only 74 cents. This translates to about $2 million less in career earning for women physicians.
• According to JAMA Network, women make up one-third of all physicians in the United States and are the growing majority among medical students.
• According to AAMC, the states with the most female physicians are:
  1) Maryland
  2) Oregon
  3) New Mexico
• Facts about National Woman Physicians Day:
  1) This Holiday coexists with the birthday of Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States in 1849.
  2) The day was first observed in 2016 and was initiated by Dr. Hala Sabry in an effort to improve the recognition of women in the field of medicine.
  3) Less than 35% of all physicians and less than 45% of all residents are women as of 2021. Women doctors have risen from nearly 38,000 in 1970 to more than 380,000 in 2021, which acknowledges why a day like this is needed.
  4) Women physicians have always been at the forefront when it comes to advocating for women's health. They have played key roles in promoting awareness and performing research in fields like breast cancer, maternal health, and reproductive health.
  5) There are many notable women physicians who have made significant contributions to their fields. These include individuals like Virginia Apgar, who developed the Apgar Score for assessing newborn health, and Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, the only woman to have ever received the Medal of Honor.

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