About National Women Physician Day
February 3rd is National Women Physicians Day – the date marks the birthday of Elizabeth Blackwell (1821 - 1910), who was famously allowed to attend medical school as a joke. She proved everyone wrong about her “intellectual inferiority” and became the first woman in America to earn her medical degree.
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook: What Physicians and Surgeons Do
“Physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses and address health maintenance. Physicians examine patients; take medical histories; prescribe medications; and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. They often counsel patients on diet, hygiene, and preventive healthcare. Surgeons operate on patients to treat injuries, such as broken bones; diseases, such as cancerous tumors; and deformities, such as cleft palates.
“There are two types of physicians, with similar degrees: M.D. (Medical Doctor) and D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine). Both use the same methods of treatment, including drugs and surgery, but D.O.s place additional emphasis on the body's musculoskeletal system, preventive medicine, and holistic (whole-person) patient care. D.O.s are most likely to be primary care physicians, although they work in all specialties.”
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