While PPMC doesn’t limit the celebration of our 1,478 exceptional physicians to a single day, National Doctors’ Day offers an official opportunity to recognize the years of hard work, sacrifice, and training these compassionate clinicians undergo on the path to their profession.
National Doctors’ Day, held annually on March 30, was first observed by Eudora Brown Almond in 1933 as a way to pay tribute to those individuals dedicated to building healthier communities. March 30 was chosen in recognition of the day Dr. Crawford Williamson Long — a surgeon, pharmacist, and alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Medicine — pioneered the use of anesthesia in 1842. Today, we not only celebrate this pivotal moment in modern medicine, but also the groundbreaking research and innovative care practices clinicians continue to push forward.
To thank Presby’s physicians for their commitment to their patients, colleagues, and community, the Medical Affairs, Administration, and Nursing teams came together to host a full breakfast reception in the Wright-Saunders Rotunda. Each doctor received a red carnation — the celebration’s official flower — and a small gift as a token of gratitude.
“The practice of medicine is incredibly rewarding, but at times quite stressful and lonely, as much of our day is spent with our patients alone in the room,” said Robert K. Cato, MD, chief of General Medicine and president of Medical Staff. “Doctors’ Day is a terrific excuse to celebrate our trusted colleagues and friends — many of whom we interact with only through medical records on a daily basis — and to share some food and a few laughs. It is a reminder of how special our medical staff is, in so many ways.”